Population ageing presents a significant challenge for the future of primary health care in Australia, according to a senior figure from the Australian Medical Association.

The Chair of the Association’s Council of General Practice, Dr Rob Pearce told the Australian Health Congress that as patients continue to live longer, they will place an increasing burden on the health system.

“Don’t get me wrong – this is a good thing,” said Dr Pearce. “The challenge, of course, is to ensure that as people age, they maintain a good quality of life.”

“The longer we live, the more likely we are to develop a chronic disease – or two – and the longer we will have to treat and manage that chronic disease, or diseases.”

Dr Pearce said most chronic diseases are preventable with the promotion of healthy diets, regular physical activity and the avoidance of tobacco and other harmful substances.

“Without a doubt, the best way to keep patients healthy and contain future health spending is to prevent illness,” he said.

In addition to the rising levels of chronic disease, Dr Pearce said the nation must prepare for the ageing of the GP workforce.

According to data from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, between 2001 and 2006, the proportion of Australian GPs aged 55 and over rose from 12 to 16 per cent.

“The proportion of older GPs will increase significantly again in the next ten years as the baby-boomers reach retirement age,” said Dr Pearce.

“Australia will have to keep older GPs in the workforce for as long as possible if we are to continue to provide access to quality primary care, and, importantly, if we are to have the capacity to train the next generation of GPs.”