Concerns identified by medical doctors working in urgent care clinic models in Australia.

Background and objectives: Since 2019, numerous urgent care clinic (UCC) models have been introduced to Australia. This study investigates concerns raised by medical doctors working in UCC models.

Method: A convenience sample of medical doctors working in UCC models in Australia since 1 July 2023 were invited to participate in a custom-designed 22-item online survey. This was advertised through The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP), The Royal New Zealand College of Urgent Care (RNZCUC), corporate general practices, UCC peer groups and on LinkedIn.

Results: Overall, 52 responses were received. Descriptive statistics and qualitative descriptive content analysis was used to identify concerns raised by participants, which included: capacity, accreditation standard, qualifications and experience of medical doctors and nurse practitioners, training, funding, public education and UCCs taking work general practitioners (GPs) could do if appropriately funded.

Discussion: Four practical solutions to the seven concerns were: (1) adoption of Medicare Benefits Schedule UCC item numbers for UCCs and general practices; (2) introducing recognition of extended skills for UCC medical doctors through the RACGP; (3) developing an Australian UCC standard; and (4) increased public health campaigns.