AMA President Dr Danielle McMullen appeared at a hearing of the Parliamentary Inquiry into the Thriving Kids initiative this week.
AMA President Dr Danielle McMullen appeared at a hearing of the Parliamentary Inquiry into the Thriving Kids initiative this week.
Our submission to the inquiry calls on the federal government to place general practitioners at the centre of the new initiative, emphasising the vital role of primary care in identifying and supporting children with developmental concerns.
The Thriving Kids initiative is aiming to establish a national system of supports for children aged eight years and under with mild to moderate developmental delays, or autism.
In a media statement, Dr McMullen said it was essential policymakers recognised the pivotal role GPs play in early intervention and ongoing care.
"GPs are often the first point of contact for families," Dr McMullen said. "They are trusted, accessible, and uniquely placed to spot developmental concerns early. If we want Thriving Kids to succeed, we must invest in general practice - with funding to support longer consultations, team-based care, and stronger referral pathways, especially in rural and remote communities."
The AMA is also advocating for developmental screening - either in the community or in primary care - to be supported by integrated digital health records.
