General practices are considering laying off receptionists, nursing staff and GP registrars because of mass cancellations and a slump in face-to-face consults, the AMA warns.

There is growing concern about the financial impact of coronavirus on the specialty, with some practices reporting 60% falls in attendances in recent weeks.

The financial losses will only be partially offset by the introduction of Medicare funding for phone and video consultations, says AMA president Dr Tony Bartone, with practices in dire straits without additional government support. 

“All around the country, operations are being cancelled and patients are increasingly reluctant to visit their doctor for fear of catching COVID-19,” he said.