The plan to change the threshold for mandatory reporting of impaired practitioners has passed its first parliamentary hurdle, despite being labelled “confusing and problematic” by doctors.

A Queensland parliamentary committee on Monday recommended the state government pass legislation to rewrite the national mandatory reporting laws.

The new model (see box below) has apparently been designed to give “confidence” to doctors seeking treatment for mental health problems.

Treating practitioners would be required to notify AHPRA when a doctor comes into their care with an impairment they believe placed the public “at a substantial risk of harm” as a result of substandard practice or intoxication.