Money, working group to address GP shortage

Above: Dr Ray Martin and Lucy Wicks.

The federal government has announced $100,000 will be made available to help overcome issues recruiting doctors on the Peninsula.

Robertson MP Lucy Wicks and Federal Assistant Minister for Health Dr David Gillespie say a new group of primary health network experts will investigate options to improve residents' access to GPs.

Ms Wicks says it follows a community forum at Umina Beach where many residents detailed how difficult it is to see a GP there.

"A large number of local doctors are approaching retirement age, and there are few younger GPs and GP registrars stepping up to take their place," Ms Wicks said in a statement.

“The PHN has found that at least five new full-time equivalent doctors are needed locally. This funding will help ensure the right resources are available to support this need.”