AMA CAS Meeting Focuses on Prevention, Innovation and Medical Workforce
25 Mar 2026
The meeting opened with a session on innovation and prevention, exploring how policy, research, and system design can improve health outcomes and reduce pressure on hospitals. Experts included Professor Zoe Wainer (Director General, Australian Centre for Disease Control), Mr James Downie (Cove Solutions), and Dr Lisa Studdert (Productivity Commission).
A second session focused on building a sustainable, well-supported medical workforce for the future. Chaired by Dr Sanjay Hettige, the discussion covered workforce planning, growing the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander medical workforce, improving cultural safety, adapting training to new care models, and supporting wellbeing and supervision. Speakers included Mr Philip Pigou (CEO, Australian Medical Council), Dr Sarah Whitelaw (federal AMA emergency physician representative), Associate Professor Kerin Fielding (President, Council of Specialist Medical Colleges), and Dr Susan Wearne (Deputy Chief Medical Officer, Department of Health).
The meeting highlighted ongoing workforce shortages, the need for flexible training and career pathways, and the importance of ensuring doctors are involved in decisions that affect patient safety and care access.
Assistant Minister for Health and Aged Care Rebecca White delivered a keynote address, acknowledging pressures on public hospitals and emphasising the value of collaboration across public, private, and not-for-profit healthcare. Shadow Minister Senator Anne Ruston also spoke, recognising the AMA’s research, including the 2026 Public Hospital Report Card, as vital for informing policy and preventive healthcare investment.
Other sessions explored advocacy, politics, and media, highlighting how doctors, journalists, and policymakers influence health reform. Facilitated by former News Limited Health Editor Ms Sue Dunlevy, the discussion featured insights from Dr Mike Freelander MP (Member for Macarthur) and Mr Michael Smith (Health Editor, Australian Financial Review).
https://www.ama.com.au/
Source: Australian Medical Association (AMA)