35 new GPs in training

Doctors hone their skills

THIRTY-FIVE new GP registrars will soon begin their intensive training at general practices across Tasmania.

General Practice Training Tasmania CEO Judy Dew said the doctors would start their orientation this week.

Meanwhile, an Australian Senate Committee inquiry into the provision of general practitioner and related primary health services to outer metropolitan, rural, and regional Australians convenes in Launceston on Monday.

The committee is due to report to parliament by the end of March

“These 35 doctors have already received a medical degree from university and are well on the way to becoming fantastic GPs,” Ms Dew said.

“The next stage is to undergo speciality training with GPTT in the Australian General Practice Training program and hone their skills in a practical environment whilst working in the community under expert supervision.

“Doctors will be training in all regions of the state including in Wynyard, Longford, New Norfolk, George Town, Scottsdale and Sorell.

“In total six new doctors will be based in the North-West, 13 in the North and 16 will be based in the South,” she said.

“Being a GP isn’t easy and over the next three years, these GP registrars will undergo thorough and intensive training and gain a range of skills.

“One of the reasons why many doctors choose to train in Tasmania is because GPTT has a great track record for providing some of the best training in the country.”

The importance of Tasmania’s quality doctor training system will be highlighted by GPTT when it gives evidence in Launceston to the senate inquiry into the provision of GPs in rural areas.

“Our organisation believes changes proposed by the federal government to the GP training system should be deferred until early 2025 to allow time for proper consultation and for more preparation work,” she said.