AMAQ warns on state plan to put doctors in schools

QUEENSLAND’S top medical body has warned a push for a program to introduce GPs into schools could put more pressure on the health system.

Australian Medical Association Queensland president Chris Perry says while more support to help increase access to primary health care is welcome, it is crucial the “model for the program is right”.

“There are already significant GP shortages across Queensland so it’s important this program doesn’t put pressure on an already overwhelmed and under-resourced primary health care system and workforce,” he said.

The state government recently revealed the 50 schools that had been chosen to have a doctor on site to provide free health consultations to students one day a week. Many of the schools were in rural and regional parts of the state, including Ravenshoe P-12 State School.

Education Minister Grace Grace said all Queensland high schools were invited to be part of the pilot program.

“As part of the application process, schools were asked to identify a local GP who was available and had the capacity to meet the needs of the school community,” she said.