An accreditation agency says the Federal Government has ended special legal protections for surveyors and practices undergoing accreditation assessments.

In a letter seen by Australian Doctor, Quality Practice Accreditation (QPA) warned its surveyors they would have to sign employment-style contracts to ensure they were protected under professional liability insurance, in lieu of the regulatory protection they had held until recently. 

The regulations — known as qualified privilege — meant surveyors, GPs and practice staff had some legal protections from ramifications for what was discussed during assessments.

They had the backing of the AMA, which told a recent review the rules “encouraged participation in the accreditation process” and “provide reassurances to GPs and general practices that the information they provide will not be used against them”.