The Royal Australian College of GPs (RACGP) yesterday relaunched its Australian General Practice Research Foundation with a new focus on innovation and impact to improve patient care and health outcomes.
The Foundation's patron Professor Michael Kidd AO, a globally recognised leader in general practice and primary care, will support the Foundation's mission to champion excellence and innovation in general practice research.
Professor Kidd AO said: "General practice impacts the lives of millions of Australians every year, yet general practice research has often been underfunded and undervalued.
"This Foundation is our chance to change that and ensure that all GPs have access to the evidence-based tools and resources they need to deliver the best possible care to their patients.
"I feel privileged to have this opportunity to champion the transformative power of general practice research and its role in helping to create healthier communities across our nation."
RACGP President Dr Michael Wright said: "The RACGP's dedication to advancing general practice and its tireless efforts to support GPs across the country have laid the groundwork for this vital initiative.
"The RACGP has been at the forefront of promoting general practice research for over 60 years and the relaunch of our Foundation signifies our renewed commitment to drive innovation.
"General practice is the core of Australia's healthcare system, and we need to keep that core strong by using research to innovate and adapt to our country's complex and evolving healthcare needs.
"Major and large grants are open now till 4 April with the general grants round opening 12 May.
"The RACGP is also calling for all political parties to commit to funding a national practice-based research network in Australia and research into multidisciplinary practice teams – which will improve access to care and reduce costs for patients. Practice-based research networks have had great success overseas, including in Canada, where they produce evidence to improve care for prominent health issues including chronic illness, ageing, addiction, and allergies.
"These crucial research initiatives, alongside the Foundation, will build a stronger academic GP workforce and research base, improving access to care, reducing hospital admissions and reducing costs for patients."
Foundation Committee Chair Sarah Lance sees the Foundation as an important opportunity to deliver meaningful outcomes and make a tangible difference in Australian healthcare.
"General practice is the backbone of our health system, with 9 in 10 Australians visiting their GP each year," she said.
""Yet, despite this critical role, general practice receives less than 2% of our national medical research funding.
"The Australian General Practice Research Foundation aims to bridge this gap, providing the necessary resources for research that supports GPs in delivering the best possible care."
"The Foundation will support GPs across Australia to drive innovation and develop real-world solutions. We are calling on GPs with big ideas to tackle pressing health challenges, improve patient care and strengthen the future of general practice.
"Through funding and fostering research, we can unlock innovations that will improve care on a scale that benefits every corner of the country."
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