Forty-four per cent of GPs now name medical misinformation as a challenge in their work, up from 35 per cent last year. The figures come from the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners' 2026 Health of the Nation report, based on a survey of more than 2,700 GPs. RACGP president Dr Michael Wright said patients increasingly turn to online platforms, social media and AI tools for health information before seeing a doctor. He said inaccurate advice can delay diagnosis and put health at risk.
Almost 300 GPs across New South Wales have completed training that allows them to diagnose and treat ADHD, and another 300 are expected to start next month. The NSW Government says the reforms aim to make care more accessible and could save families thousands of dollars. GPs will be supported by specialist psychiatrists and paediatricians and will continue to refer patients to specialists when needed. The government has committed an $11.7 million package in the 2026-27 NSW Budget, including funding for up to 2,500 free GP ADHD assessments.
Close to 300 general practitioners across New South Wales have finished training to diagnose and treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Another 300 GPs are due to start training next month. NSW Health Minister Ryan Park said rural and regional areas were prioritised, as access to diagnosis there has been difficult. Previously, people needed to see a psychiatrist, paediatrician or psychologist, which meant long waits and high fees. Reforms also include free assessments and funding for specialist support for GPs.
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Almost 300 general practitioners in NSW have completed training to diagnose attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, a condition that previously required a specialist. Patients have faced long waits and high fees, especially children. Dr Rebekah Hoffman, one of the newly trained GPs, says the change could be life-changing for some patients, particularly those in regional areas who often had to travel to see specialists. Around 70 per cent of the first cohort works in regional and rural NSW. Health Minister Ryan Park said a further 300 GPs are about to begin training.
Almost 300 GPs across NSW have completed extra training to assess, diagnose and begin prescribing medication for ADHD in adults and children. NSW Health Minister Ryan Park said the change is designed to give patients faster access to care, particularly in regional and remote areas. GPs will be supported by specialist psychiatrists and paediatricians and can still refer patients to specialists. The government says up to 2500 free GP ADHD assessments will be funded, potentially saving eligible patients up to $1500 a year. A further 300 GPs are expected to start the training next month.
A new guide has been launched in Dubbo to help healthcare workers identify and respond to signs of modern slavery. NSW Anti-slavery Commissioner James Cockayne said the abuse is often hidden, with control exercised through manipulation and contracts rather than physical restraints. The booklet does not set out mandatory reporting, but teaches staff to ask trauma-informed questions and shows where to turn for help. Jennifer Neil of the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners said modern slavery causes both physical and mental health problems. The resource was developed for NSW but may be used elsewhere.
