It is still possible to speak a GP the same day that you need them
Accessibility is an increasingly common issue for Australian’s when trying to make an appointment to speak with a doctor.
According to results from the Australian Bureau of Statistics’ Patient Experience Survey 2019–20, Almost 1 in 5 (19%) adults felt they waited longer than acceptable to get an appointment with a GP. Across the 31 Primary Health Network (PHN) areas across Australia, this percentage ranged from 13% in the Gold Coast to 40% in Western NSW.
Furthermore, almost 1 in 4 (23%) adults referred to a medical specialist waited longer than they felt acceptable to get an appointment in the previous 12 months. Across PHN areas, this percentage ranged from 17% in Nepean Blue Mountains to 30% in North Coast. South-eastern NSW had the highest percentage of adults referred to a medical specialist and waited longer than they felt acceptable across the PHN areas (30%).
Just days ago, both Health Minister Mark Butler and Prime Minister Anthony Albanese acknowledged and agreed that Australia’s healthcare system needs an ‘urgent shake up’.
The government says strengthening Medicare is its “highest priority”, as Australians are being left unable to get the care they need - either because of blown out waiting times, or higher fees.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said the Medicare system his government had inherited was “struggling to keep up”.
In addition to higher gap fees, patients are struggling to get timely appointments with their GPs, with waiting times blowing out to more than a month for some doctors, due to a slimmer workforce and exploding demand.
The government has advised that big changes are coming, and will be announced in the coming weeks.
In the meantime, and at any time, 7 days per week, Australia wide, Private Medical offers Telehealth GP consultations no matter where you live.
You can phone or book online the same day, at a time that suits you, to speak with an online doctor and get the assistance that you need the same day.
If you or a family member need a GP appointment, call 135 001, or go to www.privatemedical.net
Patient experiences in Australia by small geographic areas in 2019–20
Minister for Health and Aged Care - Melbourne press conference - 23 January 2023
Anthony Albanese says outdated Medicare needs ‘urgent shake up’
