GP registrars should not routinely be asked to treat their colleagues or their families, General Practice Registrars Australia says.

In a new position statement, General Practice Registrars Australia (GPRA) argues GP registrars cannot be expected to provide quality care for practice staff and their family members due to the inherent power imbalances of their roles as junior team members.

It also says practices should put in place rules to prohibit staff from making casual requests or asking informal “corridor questions” for medical advice from registrars for the same reason.

The policy, which reflects the position of the Medical Board of Australia, should not be absolute and exceptions can be made in emergencies, it says.