The Australian College of Rural and Remote Medicine (ACRRM) is calling for targeted funding of Rural Generalist (RG) MBS item numbers to help address critical service gaps in rural, remote, and First Nations communities. 

Introducing RG-specific MBS item numbers to ensure RGs can fully utilise their skills to support underserved populations, is a key focus of ACRRM’s Pre-Budget and Election Submission. 

ACRRM President Dr Rod Martin says these item numbers could be funded through the $6.5 billion annual budget underspend on healthcare services in rural and remote communities. 

“This rural-urban gap is impacting the health of rural and remote families, and it widens significantly for consultant specialist services, which are especially costly and difficult to access outside urban centres. 

“Rural and remote communities receive 30 per cent less funding for GP services and 65 per cent less for non-GP services every year. 

“Appropriate remuneration for RGs through MBS will enable them to deliver broad and advanced specialised services in their rural, remote, and First Nations communities, while also providing essential medical care. 

Dr Martin adds that limited funding also constrains the healthcare workforce, affecting the quality of care and increasing the risk of GP and RG burnout, 

“The introduction of RG-specific MBS item numbers would be a game-changer, making it easier to deliver crucial healthcare services and encouraging more doctors to work in these communities,” he says. 

With recognition of Rural Generalist Medicine in its final stages, the College is also calling for funding to launch a dedicated national awareness campaign. 

“Raising awareness of the RG role will support workforce retention and recruitment, strengthen local healthcare models, and improve access to services for people outside urban centres. 

“Now is the time for the Government to recognise and support the vital role of RGs in delivering high-quality healthcare to rural and remote communities,” he says. 

The ACRRM Pre-Budget Submission also calls for funding to: 

  • Consolidate the Rural Generalist training pipeline 
  • Secure and sustain rural women’s health services 
  • Retain and incentivise the RG workforce in rural and remote communities 

Read the full ACRRM Pre-Budget Submission here.