Eighteen Tasmanian general practices are sharing in a $1.7 million funding boost to improve their training facilities for new doctors.
The investment is part of the Single Employer Model (SEM), a joint federal and state government program that employs doctors-in-training under the state government.
These trainees work in local practices alongside experienced GPs to gain experience in both general practice and hospitals.
Glebe Hill Family Practice, one recipient, plans to use its grant to build extra space for teaching and collaboration, freeing up consulting rooms for patient appointments.
GP and owner Alice Frampton said this will help them address the “infinite demand” for medical services.
“We have to limit how many new patients come through so that we can actually cater for the existing patients effectively and in a timely manner,” she said.
“So this support is great. It gives us opportunity to do more. General practice is the cornerstone of our health system and all the support that we can get is very welcomed.”
Health Minister Jacquie Petrusma said 22 GP trainee registrars have gone through the pilot program since it started in July 2023.
“The program is capped at 20 at one time but 22 are going through and another four will start in January,” she said.
“So it’s a very exciting way to keep on training up more GPs in Tasmania.”
