Hopes new Hunter New England Primary Health Network Bush GP grants will ease shortages across north west

The Hunter New England Primary Health Network has announced over $250,000 in funding to attract six new GPs to the north west through its new Bush GP grant program.

The network has flagged the Liverpool Plains, Northern Tablelands and Upper Hunter as regions that will particularly benefit.

Dr Emma Moffatt, practice manager at the Rural Medical Clinic in Manilla, says recruitment of qualified doctors has been an ongoing challenge.

"We often attract doctors through our GP training when they work for us, and then they stay on," she said.

"But in terms of getting people who are already qualified, that's been a real challenge because the majority of them want to stay in more metropolitan areas."

The Manilla practice already has five doctors, but Dr Moffatt said more are needed to cover the needs of the town's population.

Neighbouring Barraba has been particularly affected, with many residents travelling to Manilla or Tamworth to seek care.

"We're always looking for that extra edge on how we can recruit and how we can ease someone's transition from a city practice into working in the bush," she said.

"These grants, and particularly the welcome package that's available, will be a big help attracting doctors."

READ ALSO:

Stage one of the funding includes 20 recruitment grants, to assist practices through initiatives such as recruitment videos, updating the practice website jobs portal, or hiring a recruitment agency.

The second and third stages will see six general practices receive funding when they sign on a new GP from outside of the rural area on two year minimum contract.

'Welcome ambassador' grants are also available to assist in relocation costs and help doctors and their families settle into their new towns.

Director of the University of Newcastle's Department of Rural Health, Dr Jennifer May, said while it's fundamental for any community to have enough doctors, it is even more pertinent for rural regions.

"We have experienced ongoing challenges in sustaining a rural health workforce," she said.

"Although just one part of the complex jigsaw of support required, these grants are a welcome incentive to support GP practices in recruitment of GPs.

"With the challenges associated with relocating and assimilating into a new community, I see great value in the welcome ambassador grants and I look forward to welcoming the new GPs into our region."

The Bush GP Grant applications remain open until June 30, 2022.

Our journalists work hard to provide local, up-to-date news to the community. This is how you can continue to access our trusted content: