GP practices in Melton and Bacchus Marsh can now recruit overseas-trained doctors after the federal government ruled that the region should become a distribution priority area.
According to the federal health and aged care department, the distribution priority area classification system identifies areas with lower levels of GP services, compared with a benchmark level. Initiatives that aim to increase the supply of GPs are then implemented in these areas.
Distribution priority areas are reviewed annually by the department.
In a joint statement, Health and Aged Care Minister Mark Butler and Hawke MP Sam Rae said the Melton and Bacchus Marsh region has recorded a rapid population increase of 14 per cent in the past four years.
At the same time, access to GPs in the area has decreased, they said.
Mr Butler and Mr Rae said the distribution priority area classification will help to boost GP numbers and provide more regular access to GP care to people living in the region without needing to travel long distances to attend an appointment.
“This DPA status will help address workforce shortages in Bacchus Marsh and Melton,” Mr Butler said.
“We remain committed to investing in general practice and improving primary healthcare for all Australians no matter where they live.”
Mr Rae said, “Our community is rapidly growing, and we need our health system to grow with us.”
