As we age, our bodies and minds naturally undergo changes, and this is no different for the medical professionals who care for us. However, when it comes to the health and safety of patients, it's crucial that the doctors making life-altering decisions are fully capable of providing the best care possible. This has become a pressing concern in Australia, where a significant increase in complaints against older General Practitioners (GPs) has sparked a debate about the need for regular health checks for doctors over the age of 70.

The Australian Medical Board, Ahpra, has revealed a concerning trend: doctors aged over 70 are 81 per cent more likely to have a complaint filed against them by patients than their younger counterparts. This statistic is alarming and has led to a proposal that could see these senior doctors undergoing regular health assessments to maintain their practice licenses.


The rise in complaints is not a small matter. Over the past eight years, the overall rate of complaints against 'late-career doctors' has doubled, a development that Ahpra has described as 'disturbing.' For doctors between the ages of 70-74, complaints have skyrocketed by more than 130 per cent since 2015. Even more startling is the 180 per cent increase in complaints about doctors aged 80 and over. While complaints against doctors under 70 have also risen, the rate is significantly lower at 63 per cent over the same period.


In response to this spike, Ahpra is considering implementing health checks for doctors over 70 years old. The goal is to 'safely extend the practice of late-career medical practitioners' by ensuring they are fit to continue their professional duties. The proposal outlines three options: an 'extensive and detailed' fitness-to-practice assessment for all doctors aged 70, general checks for GPs aged 70 and older, or maintaining the status quo.


Dr Anne Tonkin AO, the Board Chair, supports the health check-ups, likening them to public health screening measures. 'Early detection means early management, which can mean preventing avoidable risks,' she explains. The intention is to find 'effective and practical ways to support late career doctors to stay in safe practice' by identifying and addressing any risks associated with increasing age.

The Medical Board of Australia is not making this decision lightly and is inviting public commentary on the three options. This is a chance for patients, healthcare professionals, and the broader community to weigh in on a matter that affects the quality and safety of healthcare services.

The implications of such a policy are far-reaching. On one hand, it could ensure that patients receive care from doctors who are physically and cognitively able to provide the highest standard of medical attention. On the other hand, it raises questions about age discrimination and the value of experience that senior doctors bring to their practice.


Members of the Seniors Discount Club, many of whom may have long-standing relationships with their GPs, might have mixed feelings about this proposal. The wisdom and experience of a trusted doctor are invaluable, yet the assurance that they are capable of delivering safe care is equally important.

We invite you to share your thoughts and experiences. Have you ever had concerns about the capabilities of an older doctor? Do you believe regular health checks for senior GPs are necessary, or do you see them as an unfair measure? Your insights are important as we navigate this complex issue together.
For more information and to participate in the public commentary, please visit the Medical Board of Australia's website. Your voice matters in shaping the future of healthcare for all Australians.