Despite the mounting pressures which GPs are working under, ABS data shows patients are still receiving accessible, high-quality care
Australians are waiting less time to see their GP and most can get urgent appointments within hours, but they’re twice as likely to seek after-hours home visits as they were a few years ago. Â
The Australian Bureau of Statistics’ report on patient experiences in 2016-17 found fewer patients waited longer than they felt was acceptable for a GP appointment, with the proportion falling to 18%, from 23% in 2013-14. Â
One in 11 people saw a GP for urgent care. Of them, 63% were seen within four hours, and 75% within 24 hours.  Â
The survey found 78% of patients had a preferred usual GP. Almost all gave glowing reports of their doctors’ manners – 92% said their GP listened carefully, 94% agreed they showed respect, and 90% said their GP spent enough time with them. Â
“These results are outstanding when you consider the pressure under which our GPs are working today,” AMA President Dr Michael Gannon said. Â
The ABS study indicated cost was not a barrier to GP care, with only 4% of respondents having delayed or foregone a visit for cost reasons.Â
This showed GPs were continuing to provide accessible, high-quality care despite significant funding pressures, Dr Gannon said. Â
On after-hours activity, the survey found 27% of patients had an after-hours visit in the latest year, up from 13% in 2013-14. In contrast, those attending late-night clinics dipped from 26% to 18%, while those visiting hospital clinics after hours fell from 19% to 10%. Â
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