First recruits welcomed to GP NOW Rapid Response Team

The Tasmanian Government is continuing to take immediate action to improve access to primary care in communities, with the first five recruits now appointed to the new GP NOW Rapid Response Team.

Five general practitioners (GPs) have joined the Rapid Response Team this month, who can be deployed to support rural and regional communities around the State when and where they are needed.

Minister for Health, Mental Health and Wellbeing, Guy Barnett, said this successful and ongoing recruitment fulfills a major commitment made under the Government’s 2030 Strong Plan for Tasmania’s Future.

“It’s fantastic to see this team now up and running, with five GPs recruited following the successful recruitment process,’’ Minister Barnett said.

“I would like to warmly welcome them to our health system and wish them all the best in their new roles, which are vital to providing Tasmanians with the healthcare they need and deserve.

“The GP NOW Rapid Response Team is a prime example of our Government’s strong investment in the primary care sector, and of our commitment to ensuring Tasmanians receive the healthcare that they deserve.

“The team will provide crisis support and intervention to communities where private a general practice has experienced challenges, including in instances where there are sudden or unplanned practice closures.

“This team will ensure that our regional communities are not left high and dry in the event of a GP clinic closing down and can continue to access health care until a more permanent solution can be found.

“The team will also be able to provide short notice cover to our district hospitals as required.

“Importantly, when they are not needed in those situations, the GP NOW team will be available to enhance our virtual care options within the Care@home team – which is great news for Tasmanians, and will further relieve pressure on our hospitals.

“It is just one of our nation-leading initiatives to support GPs across the State, along with our $100,000 GP incentive package for 40 new GPs, and multi-year funding of up to $250,000 per year to support the ongoing viability of outer-urban, regional and rural Tasmanian GP practices.”

Recruitment to fill the remaining positions is ongoing.