The Royal Australian College of GPs has applauded the Federal Government's $573.3 million package for women's health which includes new funding for menopause health assessments and increased funding for long-acting reversible contraception (LARCs).
The Albanese Government package announced today includes more funding for LARC insertion and removal, and to establish LARC training centres. It also includes new funding for menopause health assessments, the development of national guidelines for menopause and perimenopause, and for new generation contraceptive pills to be listed on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS).
RACGP President Dr Michael Wright said: "The RACGP has been calling for more funding for women's health and we applaud the Albanese Government for this package, particularly funding for health assessments and LARCs.
"We know cost-of-living is hitting women hard. Surveys show women are more likely to have delayed seeking essential healthcare due to costs than men. And, on top of this, medical misogyny is embedded in Medicare.
"The current subsidy for Intrauterine Device (IUD) insertion is just $77, while a vasectomy, which is equally complex and time consuming, gets much more funding at $222. The RACGP spoke about this issue and the need for more funding with Health and Aged Care Assistant Minister Ged Kearney just last year.
"Women across Australia need better access to affordable and comprehensive care for health issues like endometriosis, chronic pelvic pain, menopause, and perimenopause.
New funding for menopause health assessments will immediately improve access to affordable and high-quality care from specialist GPs for those who need it.
"The new generation contraceptive pills being added to the PBS will also give women greater options and choices.
"There is no substitute for the quality care you get from a GP who knows you are your history. Everyone needs affordable access, no matter your gender, income, or where you live in Australia.
"The RACGP has a comprehensive plan for accessible and affordable GP care, which includes a suite of initiatives for women's health, which we'll be releasing next week. As part of this, we have been calling for more funding for LARC insertion, and women's health assessments.
"Better funding women's health including contraceptives and health assessments is an investment that will pay off. It will improve health and wellbeing, reduce pressure on our health system, and help reduce gender bias in our health system."
