The Australian Medical Association (AMA) has emphasized the critical role of general practitioners (GPs) in revitalizing the country’s immunisation rates, which have seen a decline in recent years. This call to action comes in response to interim data from the National Centre for Immunisation Research and Surveillance, revealing a drop in vaccination rates across various categories, particularly among younger demographics.
According to the data, the levels of on-time childhood vaccination have now fallen below pre-pandemic levels. This trend is concerning health experts who are urging for a strategic focus on general practice to restore public confidence in vaccinations.
Current Vaccination Trends and Challenges
Professor Mark Morgan, Chair of the RACGP Expert Committee on Quality Care, noted a slight increase in influenza vaccinations this year compared to last. However, he cautioned that overall vaccination numbers remain below those of 2022 and 2023. “The year is not over, and we may need to see future years to know if the immunisation rate is increasing from a low in 2024, but overall, there’s been a decline since the pandemic started,” he stated.
In response, the AMA has released a new position statement on immunisation, highlighting the importance of accessing vaccination services through general practice. The statement underscores the trusted, personalized advice that GPs can provide, which is crucial for addressing vaccine hesitancy.
Proposed Reforms and Support for GPs
To enhance the efficiency of immunisation care, the AMA suggests reforms to the Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS) consultation item numbers, allowing for longer consultations. This change aims to facilitate more comprehensive discussions between GPs and patients who have questions about vaccinations.
Dr. Danielle McMullen, AMA President, emphasized the need for these reforms, stating, “We do think that reforms to the Medicare items structure would make a difference here, but only for people who have questions about vaccination.”
Additionally, the AMA advocates for increased support for practice nurses, who play a pivotal role in delivering vaccine care. Dr. McMullen highlighted the importance of better support mechanisms, such as increased funding or other resources, to empower practice nurses in their critical role.
Building Trust Through Regular GP Visits
Data from the OECD and the Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care supports the notion that regular GP visits can significantly boost patient trust in the healthcare system. Professor Morgan shared insights from a recent study, stating, “It was stark – 62% of patients who saw the same GP for most of their healthcare needs said they trust the healthcare system, compared to 43% of patients who did not.”
“Even among patients who don’t have a usual GP, 79% rated their care positively, versus 43% trust in the healthcare system.”
The findings suggest that continuity of care with a familiar GP can enhance trust and encourage timely vaccinations, such as flu or COVID shots. This trust is vital for addressing vaccine hesitancy and ensuring that patients feel comfortable discussing their concerns with a healthcare professional.
Looking Ahead: The Path to Improved Immunisation Rates
The AMA’s recommendations and the supporting data underscore the importance of GPs in Australia’s vaccination landscape. By fostering trust and providing personalized care, GPs can play a key role in reversing the decline in immunisation rates.
As the country navigates the post-pandemic era, the focus on strengthening general practice and supporting healthcare professionals will be crucial. The AMA’s call for reforms and increased support reflects a broader strategy to ensure that all Australians have access to the vaccinations they need, ultimately safeguarding public health.
Moving forward, the healthcare community and policymakers will need to collaborate closely to implement these changes and monitor their impact on immunisation rates. The hope is that through these efforts, Australia can achieve higher vaccination coverage and better protect its population from preventable diseases.
