Media release from the Royal New Zealand College of General Practitioners

Over 400 general practitioners and other health professionals from around the country and overseas will attend the Royal New Zealand College of General Practitioners (RNZCGP) conference which starts Wednesday in Wellington.

"At a time when politicians and policy makers are making big decisions about the importance of primary care to the overall public health system, this conference provides an opportunity to unpick the myths and realities of general practice into 2010 and beyond," said RNZCGP chief executive and conference convenor, Karen Thomas.

Outgoing college president, Jonathan Fox, said the conference is also a chance to showcase the hugely important work general practitioners do in the community and reinforce the importance of recruiting and training New Zealand GPs.

"GPs play a vital role at the core of the primary health system. They are at the frontline of health care delivery and are the first point of contact with the health system for most people. They are also key figures in the Government's plans to deliver better, more convenient health care," Dr Fox said.

"We look forward to learning from speakers who are leaders in the research and development of primary care, both, in New Zealand and internationally and exploring how the sector can apply this knowledge to New Zealand's primary health care system to deliver quality health care to every New Zealander."

Speaker topics include quality accountability and trust, engaging successfully with communities in health research, practice nurse work in New Zealand, and families living with addiction, disability and injury.

During the four-day conference, participants will have the opportunity to attend workshops by local experts on subjects including basic surgical skills, patient safety and clinical skills.

The 2009 conference also marks 30 years since HRH Prince Phillip visited New Zealand to confer the Royal title on the college.

At the conference opening ceremony on Wednesday evening, a record number of doctors who have completed their specialist training in general practice will be admitted to Fellowship of the college.

The conference is being held at the Duxton Hotel in Wellington and finishes on Saturday.