The last few weeks have been filled with many wonderful opportunities to connect with members. In late March, I visited the New England region and met with a number of GPs and practices in the region. I would like to extend a thank you to the Tablelands Clinical School, Health on Rusden, Faulkner Street Medical, Walcha Medical Practice, Tallowwood Health, East Tamworth Medical Centre, Peel Health Care, and Tamworth Aboriginal Medical Service for welcoming me, and for sharing your invaluable insights. I also enjoyed catching up with many of you at dinners in Armidale and Tamworth.
Last week, I had the pleasure of joining my colleague and RACGP President, Dr Michael Wright as we hosted a member meet up in Sydney. It was fantastic to see so many of you there as we caught up on our upcoming advocacy plans and the latest achievements of the NSW&ACT Faculty Council.
I’m pleased to share some significant progress from my recent meetings with the NSW Minister for Health, Ryan Park, and the ACT Minister for Health, Rachel Stephen-Smith. In NSW, Minister Park agreed to raise several key issues with his Federal and State Health Minister colleagues, including GP prescribing of isotretinoin for cystic acne, GP prescribing of psychostimulant medication for ADHD, and access to meningococcal B vaccination. He was also interested in exploring GP scope of practice and potential opportunities for expansion. I am working to secure a meeting with him to continue this discussion.
In the ACT, Minister Stephen-Smith expressed support for GP prescribing of isotretinoin and psychostimulant medication for ADHD. She was also interested in how the GP wellbeing fund, announced as a state election promise, could be rolled out.
Later this month, I will be taking some time off with my family over the Easter weekend and public holidays. I hope you’re also able to take a moment to rest and recharge. The year seems be flying past and managing our own wellbeing is an important part of our lives.
Dr Rebekah Hoffman
RACGP NSW&ACT Chair