The work content of general practice. Based on a survey of selected procedures performed by Victorian general...

Much has been spoken about the changing nature of general practice, although little documental evidence is available to identify the nature of these changes. Such changes are said to include provision of some diagnostic services, diminishing involvement in surgical and obstetrical procedures, and a lessening of GP involvement in the hospital care of patients. Information about the range of services provided by the average general practitioner is essential knowledge required by planners of undergraduate, vocational and continuing education programmes. In view of the anticipated rapid increase in general practitioner numbers in the near future, further changes in the nature of the discipline are predicted. A survey of general practitioners was therefore proposed by four bodies concerned with medical education relevant to general practice, viz. -- the Victorian Medical Postgraduate Foundation, the Monash University Department of Social and Preventive Medicine (Section of Community Practice), the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (Victoria Faculty) and the Victorian Academy for General Practice Limited.