The Federal Government is exploring a “different operational model” for GP training, confirming claims that it is rethinking the way it will hand back control of the training program to the colleges.

Under an expectation that funding agreements would be signed soon, it has been assumed the RACGP and ACRRM would take over GP training next year.

While the colleges’ takeover will still happen, the RACGP’s acting censor in chief Dr Tess van Duuren said it was “now clear the Department of Health is seeking a new approach to the training transition”.

“What seems to be at the heart of this shift is the Department of Health has come to realise the transition of GP training is an important opportunity to ensure that the Australian General Practice Training Program and other related workforce programs are fit for purpose and cost-effective,” she said in a message to RACGP members.