The state government has secured a new four-year deal with rural GPs to provide greater recognition, remuneration and support for regional and remote doctors.

As part of the SA Health Rural GP Agreement 2024-28 (GPA), there will be an increase of three per cent to the sessional rates, which reflects the significant work and contribution that rural GPs provide to regional communities.

The rural attraction payment of up to $50,000 for new GPs who are beginning practice and providing hospital services will be expanded, with a new payment of up to $10,000 to a wider range of regional sites.

In addition, a recognition payment of $5,000 will be given to each current GP signing on to the new GPA to acknowledge their service and ongoing commitment to South Australian rural and regional communities.

A new Non-Clinical Engagement Plan (NCEP) will allow GPs to be remunerated for a broad range of non-clinical commitments such as teaching, training, supervision, regional Local Health Network meetings, and other essential hospital-based activities.

More than 330 rural GPs and GP registrars are currently contracted by SA Health to deliver medical services in rural and regional hospitals, providing essential healthcare including emergency services, inpatient care, surgery, obstetrics and anaesthetics.

Contracted GPs deliver these services in addition to maintaining their private practices, which can result in a substantial workload.

The agreement has been negotiated between the South Australian branch of the Australian Medical Association (AMA(SA)), the Rural Doctors’ Association of South Australia, and the Rural Support Service on behalf of SA Health’s six regional local health networks.

It will start from 1 February 2024.

Dr John Williams is AMA(SA) President and a rural GP.

“The sustainability and growth of rural communities depends on the healthcare that families and individuals know they will receive in these communities. 

“This agreement is a crucial step in establishing and retaining the clinical workforce we all need to deliver world-class care.