The shortage of GPs across Ipswich, the Somerset Region and Karana Downs area is under the spotlight today as the first public hearing of a Senate inquiry examining the issue gets underway in Canberra.

Federal Member for Blair, Shayne Neumann said Labor called for the inquiry in a bid to investigate the critical lack of doctors across outer metropolitan, rural and regional Australia.

“Submissions have been made to the inquiry from range of organisations, including doctors, GP practice managers, universities, peak bodies, health advocates and concerned patients,” Mr Neumann said.

“In addition, the Riverlink Family Practice made a compelling submission, outlining the issues they have faced recruiting GPs and the impact on significant regional health concerns.”

“This has been a problem for a number of years, and it is an issue raised with me time and again.

“People are finding it really hard to see a doctor when they need it, and the pandemic has only made it more challenging.

“It can be really stressful for families and it ultimately puts more pressure on hospitals.

“Our community needs solutions to the crisis, which is only getting worse.”

The Senate Inquiry will examine the Government’s current geographical classification system, the stronger Rural Health Strategy, GP training reforms, and the effects of the Medicare rebate freeze.

In addition, the Inquiry will assess the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on doctor shortages in outer metropolitan, rural, and regional Australia.

The inquiry hearing will be broadcast online on Thursday 4 November, commencing at 9am AEST (8am Queensland time). Submissions to the inquiry, including those from local and Queensland GPs and health providers, can be viewed here.