Developing a general practice workforce for the future

Background Australia continues to develop as a multicultural nation, with a population that is ageing and developing complex health needs. The world around us is changing, and the pace of change is increasing. These contextual changes pose challenges for general practice training.

Objectives This paper explores the potential impact of these changes on the general practice workforce.

Discussion General practitioners (GPs) will continue to have a central role in coordinating continuous, comprehensive care but are more likely to act as managers of multi-source, continuous monitoring data that facilitate personalised medical care. GPs will need to adapt rapidly to change, seizing opportunities offered by disruptive technology in a globalised world affected by climate change. The nature and impact of change is difficult to predict, and more research is needed to explore how change will affect healthcare and healthcare professionals. Ideally, training for general practice should include preparation for managing continuous change.