Peel GPs will soon have access to a range of subsidised education and training options, aimed at improving the depth and breadth of medical services available to the community.
WA Primary Health Alliance and Rural Health West have teamed up to deliver a range of incentives to local GPs, aimed at encouraging them to remain working in the region; as well as making the region more attractive to incoming doctors.
The Peel region has one of the fastest growing populations in WA and sustainable health workforce recruitment and retention solutions are imperative to ensure the community has adequate access to medical care.
The Peel GP Incentive Fund Initiative – Education and Training Support Project will encompass a Continuing Professional Development Support Subsidy, a Peel GP Health Forum, mental health skills training workshop, conferences, procedural forums, upskilling workshops, and evening educational sessions.
WA Primary Health Alliance General Manager Strategy and Engagement, Chris Kane, said in conjunction with Rural Health West and in consultation with an advisory group of local general practices, we have explored multiple solutions to the GP recruitment issues facing the region that could equally be applied throughout the state.
“There is no one solution to GP recruitment and the Peel GP Incentive Fund Initiative has therefore looked to deliver incentives including training, recruitment assistance and local networking that, together, help to make a place attractive to new and existing GPs.”
Rural Health West Chief Executive Officer Tim Shackleton said he was pleased to partner with WA Primary Health Alliance to deliver educational and collegiate activities that align with regional health priorities and the learning needs of the region’s GP workforce.
“Through our regular surveys, mental health has been identified as a key learning priority for GPs and this will be a focus of the education program.
“We hope that the Peel GP Incentive Initiative can bolster health services in the region, enhance the reputation of the region for current and prospective medical professionals, and improve the accessibility of vital medical services for the community.”
The Peel GP Incentive Fund Initiative – Education and Training Support Project has been made possible through funding provided by the Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care under the Primary Health Network Program.