Relations between the Barnett Government and the Australian Medical Association are at a flashpoint, with the president of the doctors’ lobby saying WA’s health policy is “increasingly confused and ruinous”.
AMA WA president Michael Gannon made the claim in a letter to every medical professional in WA as Premier Colin Barnett expressed frustration with the AMA after a week of criticism.
A war of words has waged on several fronts, including the Federal Government’s decision to approve a new Curtin University medical school in Midland, new State legislation to overhaul Healthway and the future of Royal Perth Hospital.
“The AMA, I think, just needs to get back to its prime role and that’s representing the medical profession and providing constructive advice to Government, not campaigning against a new medical school which is desperately needed,” Mr Barnett said.
In Parliament on Thursday, Health Minister Kim Hames, a long-time AMA member, also hit back at the doctors’ lobby.
He said it bothered him that the AMA protested on issues such as Healthway, Midland hospital, pharmacists and Curtin medical school, which had strong support from former AMA presidents.
Dr Hames said he was told the AMA’s position was not unanimous and there was a strong alternative view that the AMA was excessively focused on the person – “that is me” – and the Government when much more focus should be directed at patients, quality of care and members.
“I hope that the AMA will have a serious look at some of the comments it seems to be making every day and that it recognises this health service in WA is one of the best in Australia,” he said.
Dr Gannon rejected the suggestion the criticism was personal but was a “principled view” with support from the AMA council and its executive director.