The Commonwealth Minister for Health and Ageing has established a panel to conduct a review of the role of Divisions of General Practice.

Divisions of General Practice (Divisions) are established organisations of geographically grouped general practitioners. Divisions work with general practitioners to build networks with other health care providers, and contribute to the achievement of improved health outcomes in the community through the development of an integrated primary health care system.

Divisions were first established in the early 1990s to support networking among GPs and other health care practitioners, and to contribute to overall health outcomes for the population within a Division. Since their inception, the Commonwealth has played an important role in supporting Divisions through funding opportunities. Divisions also provide an important conduit for the Commonwealth�s engagement with GPs and have helped facilitate GP involvement in primary health care initiatives.

The review will reflect on the achievements of Divisions and the future role Divisions can play in supporting general practice and developing a more integrated system of primary care which serves the needs of the Australian community.

Written submissions are sought from parties with an interest in the review.