AMA Will Seek an Active Role with the Coalition Government

The AMA will seek an active role with the Coalition Government in the review of Medicare Locals and scrapping the cap on claims for work-related self-education expenses.

AMA President Dr Steve Hambleton said  the AMA had a positive and rewarding working relationship with new Prime Minister, Tony Abbott, when he was the Health Minister in the Howard Government, and in recent times had consulted closely with Shadow Minister for Health and Ageing, Peter Dutton.

“We have a strong foundation with the new Coalition Government, and we would welcome Peter Dutton as Health Minister should he stay in the portfolio,” Dr Hambleton said. “The health policies that the Coalition took to the election responded in part to concerns raised by the AMA, especially in providing greater support for general practice. “We will be seeking an active role in the review of Medicare Locals and we will be urging the new Government to immediately scrap the cap on claims for work-related self-education expenses.

“In campaigning for this election, Tony Abbott said that he would 'under-promise and over-deliver'.  "The AMA is confident that this slogan will apply to health funding and services.”

Dr Hambleton also paid tribute to the outgoing administration.

“The AMA at all times had access to Prime Ministers Kevin Rudd and Julia Gillard, both of whom took the advice and views of the AMA seriously,” Dr Hambleton said. “Tanya Plibersek and Nicola Roxon were both quality Health Ministers who will leave a strong legacy in the health sector, especially in public health. “We wish Julia Gillard and Nicola Roxon every success in their post-politics careers and look forward to working with Tanya Plibersek and Kevin Rudd in their new roles in Opposition.”