RURAL doctor representatives' efforts to have country GPs' work in local hospitals recognised with increased support and higher salaries has suffered a significant setback.
In March, the Australian Medical Association SA and Rural Doctors Association of SA submitted a joint proposal to the Department for Health and Wellbeing's Rural Support Services, outlining a need for remuneration and professional development support for rural GPs frequently delivering after-hours care in hospitals on top of their already-large GP commitments.
The proposal was rejected last week, leaving the AMASA and RDASA reeling.
The proposal followed the expiry of the previous three-year GP agreement on November 30 last year, and AMASA president Michelle Atchison said the rejection of the new proposal was a "slap in the face".
"We're not asking for a package of money for GPs to work in the country, the support and remuneration is specifically for the extra work that GPs do in hospitals," she said.
Do you agree with the AMASA and RDASA?
- Start the day with all the big news in agriculture. Sign up here to receive our daily Stock Journal newsletter.