The RACGP wants to turn its membership into a political fighting force ahead of the federal election in a bid to make GP funding a core issue for voters.

In a video address sent to members on Tuesday, college president Dr Harry Nespolon challenged GPs to speak to at least one politician and one patient about the issues facing general practice in the lead-up to the election.

“This election can’t be about hospitals or pathology providers; it has to be about general practice,” he said in the video.

“I’m asking you to talk to one of the two million people who will come and visit GPs this week about the importance of general practice.