A national survey of COVID-19 challenges, responses and effects in Australian general practice

A national cross-sectional online survey of Australian general practitioners was conducted in April and May 2020, with 572 respondents.

The COVID-19 pandemic in Australia has resulted in major changes to general practice business models. Most practices have experienced increased workload and reduced income.

Australian general practices have undertaken major innovation and realignment to respond to staff safety and patient care challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic. Increased administration, reduced billable time, managing staffing and pivoting to telehealth service provision have negatively affected practice viability. Major sources of information for general practice are primary care-specific, but many practices turn to colleagues for support and resources.