The RACGP is calling on the public to thank the “unheralded heroes” of the coronavirus pandemic — the nurses and reception staff of GP clinics — who have sometimes borne the brunt of patients’ frustrations. 

These staff not only had to adapt to the many changes in how general practices operated, but the RACGP says media reports show they had also been verbally abused, threatened and insulted as “disease spreaders”. 

President Dr Harry Nespolon said while the attention often fell on GPs those working alongside them also deserved thanks.

“This pandemic has been a very challenging time for general practice and the RACGP recognises that the staff working alongside GPs rarely get the attention or praise they deserve,” Dr Nespolon said in a statement.