Doctors Welcome Major Shift in GP Training Funding

In a significant move that has been widely welcomed by the medical community, the New Zealand government has announced a complete overhaul of the funding model for specialist general practitioner (GP) training. Previously, only the first year of training was fully funded, leaving trainees to cover the costs of the subsequent two years. This new initiative will fully fund all three years of specialist GP training, along with the exam fees for approximately 200 trainees and full educational costs for around 400 trainees in years two and three each year.

Dr. Samantha Murton, president of the Royal New Zealand College of General Practitioners, praised the decision as a 'gamechanger' for both current and future trainees. She emphasized that the move aligns GP training with other medical specialties in New Zealand and Australia, reinforcing the value of general practice within the healthcare system.

'This is a significant acknowledgment for the specialism of the general practice workforce and the vital role we play in healthcare,' Dr. Murton said. 'We are optimistic that this change will encourage more medical graduates to consider a career in general practice, despite the financial barriers that have previously discouraged them.'

Toby Beaglehole, chief executive of the Royal New Zealand College of General Practitioners, also welcomed the change, noting that the shift in funding signals a growing recognition of the importance of primary care in the healthcare system. He added that the college is committed to building a sustainable and equitable workforce for the future.

Health Minister Simeon Brown announced the changes during a GP conference, stating that the reforms will improve access to primary healthcare for New Zealanders. He also announced an update to the funding model for GP clinics, known as 'capitation,' which will be revised for the first time in over 20 years starting in July 2026. The new model will take into account factors such as multimorbidity, rurality, and socioeconomic deprivation when distributing funds, ensuring that clinics serving populations with greater health needs receive more support.

As part of the reforms, a new national health target will be introduced with the primary care sector, aiming to ensure that more than 80% of people can see a primary care provider within one week. Minister Brown emphasized the importance of timely care, stating that long waits can lead to poorer health outcomes and increased pressure on hospital systems.

With these changes, the government aims to not only support the training of future GPs but also improve the quality and accessibility of primary healthcare across the country. The reforms have been seen as a crucial step in addressing long-standing challenges in the healthcare system and ensuring that general practice is valued as a vital component of New Zealand's health infrastructure.