GPs push for new bargaining powers

GPs would be free to discuss their prices with one another and together set fees for locums and after-hours services, under a proposal being considered by Australia’s competition watchdog.

The AMA has made an application to the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission, saying competition laws currently forbidding GPs from discussing fees for medical services cause stress and inefficiencies in general practice.

Dr Brian Morton, chair of the AMA Council of