AMSA releases key priorities for the 2007 Federal Election

Emphasis has been placed on the improvement of clinical training resources, provisions for the expansion of medical education capacity, and the revision of Commonwealth health workforce schemes.

AMSA National President Rob Mitchell said, “AMSA’s key priorities for the upcoming election reflect the changing nature of the health workforce environment.

“Australia will see a dramatic influx in medical students and junior doctors over the next 3-5 years. For this influx of trainees to effectively alleviate the current health workforce crisis, it is absolutely critical that we prioritise government funding of high-quality clinical placements and training positions.

“This is particularly pertinent for the specialty of General Practice, where appropriate levels of support and incentive for clinical teachers are lacking,” said Mitchell.

AMSA is also calling for the reinstatement of the 25% cap on the number of Domestic Undergraduate Full-Fee (DUFF) places in medicine.

“The federal government must commit to greater financial and resource-based support for Australia’s future doctors; the quality of healthcare service delivery and patient care are inherently dependent on this.”