Analysed Data

The Advocate’s office analysed all the data received and identified a range of themes and trends:

  • The pathway to becoming a GP is a long and sometimes confusing path
  • Recruitment and retention of doctors is a significant issue
  • Many General practices are not publicly funded, they are small businesses and they need to be viable
  • Currently many doctors working in Latrobe travel daily from inner Melbourne to work.
  • There are limited after hours or weekend services available which puts additional pressure on emergency departments
  • Many new doctors have different needs, preferring part time and job share arrangements
  • There have been significant changes to the design and delivery of GP services, communities haven’t been involved in the change and their expectations are not being met.
  • A future approach is a multidisciplinary approach; nurse practitioners, practice nurses, specialist nurses and pharmacies