The government is offering sweeteners to southside general practitioners in a bid to increase Canberra's low bulk billing rates.
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The Bulk Billing General Practices Grant Fund will offer funding to general practitioners, psychologists and other allied health professionals who increase their bulk billing rates.
The ACT has the lowest rate of bulk billing of any jurisdiction at just 62.1 per cent compared to the national average of 86 per cent.
"This program will encourage more GPs to bulk bill patients, ensuring that Canberrans can access medical services when and where they need them," Minister for Health Meegan Fitzharris said.
"In particular, this program will focus on boosting bulk billing and allied health services in Tuggeranong and the Molonglo Valley, because we know these are areas where bulk billing rates are low.
"The aim is to make primary health care services more affordable so people get the care they need sooner rather than later.
"While the Canberra Liberals think most people in Canberra can afford to pay the gap when they see a GP, Labor is taking practical steps to ensure more people can access free healthcare."
Grants up to $350,000 are available for eligible practices, with a total of $1.05 million over three years allocated to the scheme.
"To be successful for a grant, health providers need to demonstrate a commitment to preventative care. For example, promotion of healthy lifestyles, addressing risk factors and lifestyle modifications to prevent chronic disease, and improving early detection and management of chronic disease.
"Proposals should also demonstrate coordinated care with a multidisciplinary team that focuses on patients' needs and is integrated with relevant local programs, support groups and community initiatives.
"We know that our GPs and allied health professionals are pivotal to the health system. So I'm really proud we are delivering on this Labor election commitment and offering real support for expanded or new general practices on the Southside so they can grow their businesses and provide the best care they can," Ms Fitzharris said.
Applications open 9am, February 12, 2018 and close at 3pm, April 6, 2018. No applications will be accepted after this date.
