'Yesterday's conference on the problems of medical indemnity insurance failed to address major problems for patients', said Dr Tim Woodruff, President of the Doctors Reform Society.

'Firstly, the decreased availability of some services like obstetrics, especially in rural and remote areas, will mean patients simply won't be treated,' said Dr Woodruff

'Secondly, however, the increased premiums doctors have to pay across the board, will mean doctors will be looking to increase their charges, said Dr Woodruff. 'That will mean that doctors who currently bulk bill will feel increasing pressure to stop bulk- billing'

'The government has watched bulk billing rates slowly decline since it came to office. It doesn't care. This indemnity crisis will be a further reason for declining bulk-billing rates. The result, further burdens on patients as they struggle to be able to afford the many and increasing out of pocket expenses of basic medical care.'

'Patients will suffer', said Dr Woodruff. 'The Government will watch out of pocket expenses rise. And their aim of a two tiered health scheme in Australia where the rich can afford excellent health care and the rest must settle for second best, will move that little closer to reality.'

24 April, 2002

Dr Tim Woodruff
President, Doctors Reform Society

Dr Con Costa
Vice president

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