GP workforce needs: The state of support activities

Since 2002-03, over 95% of Divisions of General Practice reported providing at least one activity (of the seven assessed) to support the workforce needs of GPs. These activities include teaching, mentoring and locum support. However, closer inspection of data from the Annual Survey of Divisions (ASD) report series shows considerable variation in the proportion of Divisions providing specific activities over this period.

In general, there has been a downward trend in the proportion of Divisions reporting each workforce activity from 2002-03 to 2005-06. Of note, is the recent marked decline in the proportion of Divisions providing student and registrar support (76% in 2004-05 to 53% in 2005-06) and family support (44% in 2004-05 to 32% in 2005-06). Further examination by state or territory (see Table 1) shows a decrease in both these activities across most areas. Exceptions to this include SA Divisions (remaining more or less steady) and Queensland Divisions (with a small increase in the provision of family support in 2005-06).

These results remind us that examination of national data at a more detailed level is beneficial because it permits the identification of exceptions to trends. In this case it illuminates the state-wide context in which Divisions of General Practice operate and enhances understanding of this aspect of the primary health care system.