A new and innovative employment model for General Practitioners (GP) in training aimed at boosting the number of doctors in rural and regional parts of Tasmania is underway with the first trainees in place across the State.
Four GP trainees began placements in July at medical centres in Deloraine, Burnie, Swansea and Hobart under the Single Employer Model pilot – a partnership between the Tasmanian and Australian Governments supported by a $12.97 million co-investment.
As part of the pilot, GP trainees have the choice of being employed by the Tasmanian Government throughout their training rotations which reduce key barriers to recruiting and retaining the next generation of GPs.
By having a single contract and employer throughout their training, GPs can access the same salary and leave entitlements – including annual leave, parental leave and sick leave – as their hospital-based peers. The employment model also allows for a seamless transition between hospital and GP placements.
Australian Minister for Health and Aged Care, Mark Butler said:
“For too long we’ve seen communities across Tasmania like Deloraine not be able to retain doctors.
“This innovative program is making training and working in rural general practice a more attractive option for young doctors and importantly it will make it easier for Tasmanians to see a doctor close to home.
“The Albanese Government is committed to making it easier for Australians to see a doctor by strengthening general practice, especially in rural areas.”
Tasmanian Minister for Health, Guy Barnett said:
“The Australia first pilot is a significant win for Tasmania as it makes it more financially attractive for doctors specialising in general practice to undertake their training in rural and regional areas.
“The innovative model is about encouraging more medical practitioners to become GPs by providing job security throughout their training while also strengthening Tasmania’s rural and regional workforce in the long-term.
“Importantly, boosting the numbers of rural and regional doctors will strengthen our communities and help more Tasmanians get the healthcare they need, when and where they need it.
“The Rockliff Liberal Government has long been advocating to trial a Single Employer Model for GP registrars, including rural generalists, to make rural practice more attractive for doctors and it is great to see it being delivered.”
