Silver tsunami of retiring GPs leads to Dr shortage for ageing

Australia faces a chronic shortage of doctors as many general practitioners (GPs) retire without sufficient new doctors to replace them.

The situation will worsen with an increase in older patients who require more consultations and treatment.

Nearly 40% of GPs are aged 55 years or over, and a further 34% are aged between 45 and 54.

The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners has warned that
the impending retirement of many GPs and the doctor shortage due to lack of GPs being trained would have a devastating impact in five year’s
time.

The ageing population has lead to 1.1 million more GP consultations with
those aged between 45-64, and more Medicare items being claimed,
according to an Australian Institute of Health and Welfare Report,
Bettering the Evaluation and Care of Health 2005-06.

It also showed that doctors were working less hours, putting further
pressure on the health system.