More divisions split over Medicare Locals
BIDDING for Medicare Locals (MLs) has led to another bitter rift between GP divisions, with accusations that some are spreading false information now tainting the contest to become the hub for Sydney’s south-west.
With the deadline for the initial round of ML submissions next week, an AGPN-appointed mediator has been called in to instigate talks between Bankstown-based South West Sydney Health Coalition (SWSHC) and rival joint bidders the Macarthur Division of General Practice and the Southern Highlands Division of General Practice.
The talks came after Bankstown GP Division CEO Andrey Zheluk, whose division is spearheading the SWSHC bid, accused his rivals of claiming to be the “official bid” for the area’s ML.
He said in a statement that his rivals “do not enjoy any exclusive right” and the claims “adversely reflect… on the future formation of a Medicare Local”.
Mr Zheluk told MO mediation was progressing “slowly” but could result in a joint bid.
Southern Highlands Division CEO Dr Warwick Ruscoe denied claiming exclusive rights.
“We don’t consider ourselves the official bid,” he said. “If someone else wants to make a bid, that’s fine.”
The latest rift follows a recent stoush between divisions in the city’s northern suburbs, after a joint bid between three divisions broke down.
It also came as the AMA presented its own vision for MLs. Last week the association called for the rollout of the new bodies to be put on hold pending further consultation with the profession.
It its position statement, the AMA reaffirmed its staunch opposition to any fundholding arrangements for GP and specialist services or the PBS.
It also stated that local doctors must hold leadership roles on the new bodies.
