RACP shapes Ahpra’s approach to late-career doctors
Date published:
19 Dec 2025
The RACP consulted on the Medical Board of Australia’s proposal for mandatory health checks for late-career doctors in 2024. We cautioned against a blanket approach and put forward alternatives that balance patient safety with physician wellbeing.
The Board’s decision to further consult the College and adopt a profession-led approach is welcomed. The approach acknowledges that general health checks for practitioners aged 70 and over are not fit-for-purpose in determining safe, scope-specific practice. This aligns with our recommendations from our submission which asked for a collaborative and proportionate approach.
The Board’s decision recognises our expertise in credentialing and safety and quality measures, including through Occupational and Environmental Medicine, and acknowledges the ongoing contribution of late-career physicians. Read Ahpra's release to find out more.