The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) has strengthened its stance against racism with a new position statement released on the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination.
The position statement on Racism in the Healthcare System establishes the organisation’s commitment to measure, challenge and eliminate racism in general practice, GP training and throughout Australia’s healthcare system.
“I’m proud to be launching the RACGP’s updated position on racism, which is an important milestone for our college and the 50,000 plus members we represent,” said RACGP President Dr Michael Wright.
The statement acknowledges that many healthcare providers and patients from culturally and racially marginalised groups continue to experience discrimination in healthcare settings.
“Every GP has the right to enjoy a career free from racism and every patient has the right to access healthcare free from racism,” Dr Wright emphasised.
The RACGP has committed to systemic reform through specific actions, including implementing its Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cultural and Health Training Framework and advocating for government funding to measure and monitor racism in general practice.
Dr Sian Goodson, RACGP Board Chair, called racism “an urgent national health priority” and highlighted the organization’s partnership with the National Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation (NACCHO).
“Together, we jointly advocate for a culturally safe and accessible healthcare system that is free from racism,” Dr. Goodson said.
The statement specifically recognises the unique challenges and discrimination faced by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, as well as recent migrants and those from second and third generation migrant families.
With GPs seeing nine out of ten Australians annually, the RACGP believes addressing racism is essential to improving health outcomes and closing healthcare gaps.
“Every step along the way to a racism-free health system is important, and the RACGP is committed to continuing action for our members, their patients, and all communities and groups affected,” Dr Goodson added.
Ritchelle is a Content Producer for Healthcare Channel, Australia’s premier resource of information for healthcare.
