AMAV VICDOC Winter 2024 - Magazine - Page 66
T H E P O L I CY D ES K
AMAV
ADV CACY
VICDOC POLICY DESK
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As always, it has been a busy time in policy
for AMA Victoria’s policy and advocacy
team, with issues as diverse as payroll tax,
the reform of health services in Victoria,
and Ahpra concerns finding their way
across the policy desk in recent months.
Here are the highlights:
MEETINGS WITH HEALTH AND
MENTAL HEALTH MINISTERS
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AMAV has recently held productive
meetings with the Victorian Health and
Mental Health ministers, addressing a range
of critical topics:
» Health Services Plan: dialogue on
reforming health services addressed
issues such as efficiency, accessibility,
and quality of care. Emphasis was placed
on ensuring that reforms align with
the needs of both patients and medical
practitioners.
» Support for General Practice: discussions
encompassed various forms of support,
including payroll tax certainty and clarity,
aimed at ensuring the sustainability of
general practice in Victoria.
» Ministerial Review: conversations
surrounding the Ministerial Review were
focused on assessing current policies
and practices to identify areas for
improvement and optimisation.
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» Class Actions: emphasising the concerns
of junior doctors related to working
conditions and unpaid overtime, AMAV
urged for a prompt settlement of these
actions.
» Medical Workforce Wellbeing: discussions
addressed the challenges faced by
medical practitioners, including burnout,
mental health, and work-life balance,
all of which are crucial for maintaining
a resilient and effective
healthcare workforce.
» Implementation of Mental Health and
Wellbeing Act: discussions centred on
strategies for effectively communicating
and implementing this legislation.
» AOD Issues: discussions on prevention,
treatment, harm reduction, and support
services, including pharmacotherapy
access and a CBD injecting facility.
» MBS Billing Practices: discussion
regarding MBS billing practices addressed
the need for compliance with the NHRA
and other requirements.
AMAV is committed to continuing dialogue
and collaboration with the Victorian
Government on these pressing matters.
AMAV’s goal is to advocate for the best
interests of our members, the medical
community, and the health of all Victorians.
