2025's Top General Practice Stories Every IMG Should Know: What's Changing in Australian Healthcare

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Discover 2025's most significant general practice updates in Australia - from new obesity medications to ADHD prescribing changes. Essential reading for IMGs preparing for AMC exams and Australian medical practice.

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Australian general practice, AMC exam preparation, IMG Australia, RACGP updates 2025, Australian medical guidelines, obesity medications Australia, ADHD prescribing, telehealth changes, diabetes guidelines Australia, MBS changes 2025

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Introduction

For International Medical Graduates (IMGs) preparing for the Australian Medical Council (AMC) examinations, staying current with Australian general practice developments is crucial. The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) has identified the top 10 stories that shaped general practice in 2025, and understanding these changes is essential for both your AMC preparation and future practice in Australia.

These updates reflect the evolving landscape of Australian healthcare, from groundbreaking medication approvals to significant policy shifts in chronic disease management. Whether you're currently studying for your AMC MCQ exam or planning your pathway to AHPRA registration, this comprehensive review will ensure you're familiar with the latest Australian clinical practice standards.

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1. Mounjaro (Tirzepatide) Approved for Obstructive Sleep Apnoea: A Game-Changer in Sleep Medicine

The Breakthrough

In June 2025, Mounjaro (tirzepatide) became the first medication approved for treating obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) in patients with obesity. This landmark approval represents a paradigm shift in sleep medicine, offering a pharmacological option for a condition traditionally managed with CPAP therapy and lifestyle modifications.

Clinical Significance for AMC Candidates

What IMGs Need to Know:

• Mechanism of Action: Tirzepatide is a dual GIP/GLP-1 receptor agonist that promotes weight loss through appetite suppression and improved glucose metabolism
• Target Population: Obese patients with moderate to severe OSA
• Australian Context: Reflects Australia's growing emphasis on weight management as a cornerstone of chronic disease treatment
• Practice Implications: GPs can now offer pharmacotherapy alongside traditional CPAP and lifestyle interventions

AMC Exam Relevance:

• Obesity management strategies in Australian general practice
• Sleep disorder assessment and treatment frameworks
• Understanding TGA medication approval processes
• Patient-centered approaches to chronic disease management

Why This Matters for Your AMC Preparation

The AMC examinations test your knowledge of current Australian clinical practice. Questions about obesity management, sleep disorders, and novel therapeutic options are increasingly common. Understanding that Australian GPs have access to medications like Mounjaro for OSA demonstrates your familiarity with contemporary Australian healthcare.

Study Tip: Review the Therapeutic Guidelines for obesity management and familiarize yourself with Australian approaches to obstructive sleep apnoea that differ from your home country's protocols.

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2. Melatonin Supplement Controversy: Rethinking Pediatric Sleep Management

The Issue

In September 2025, major online retailers suspended melatonin supplement sales in Australia, prompting healthcare experts to reconsider approaches to children's sleep issues. This development highlights Australia's cautious approach to over-the-counter sleep aids and the importance of evidence-based pediatric care.

Clinical Implications for Australian Practice

Key Considerations:

• Australian Regulations: More restrictive approach to melatonin compared to other countries
• Pediatric Sleep Management: Emphasis on behavioral interventions before pharmacotherapy
• GP Responsibility: Careful assessment of underlying causes before recommending sleep aids
• TGA Oversight: Demonstrates Australia's stringent medication regulation framework

AMC Clinical Exam Relevance: This topic could appear in:

• Pediatric consultation stations (parents seeking sleep solutions)
• Counseling scenarios about over-the-counter medication safety
• History-taking stations exploring sleep hygiene and behavioral interventions

Practice Pearls for IMGs

Australian general practice emphasizes:

1. Non-pharmacological interventions first: Sleep hygiene, bedtime routines, addressing underlying anxiety
2. Thorough assessment: Rule out medical causes (obstructive sleep apnoea, ADHD, autism spectrum disorder)
3. Conservative prescribing: Melatonin reserved for specific indications, not first-line
4. Parent education: Setting realistic expectations about children's sleep patterns

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3. Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV): Preparing for Emerging Respiratory Infections

The Context

In January 2025, Australian GPs faced questions about Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) as cases surged overseas. This story underscores the importance of staying current with emerging infectious diseases—a critical skill tested in AMC examinations.

What IMGs Need to Understand

Clinical Features of HMPV:

• Respiratory virus similar to RSV
• Affects all ages, particularly young children and elderly
• Symptoms: cough, fever, wheezing, dyspnea
• Generally self-limiting in healthy individuals
• Can cause severe disease in immunocompromised patients

Australian Public Health Response:

• Surveillance systems monitor respiratory virus trends
• GPs play frontline role in patient education
• Testing typically not required for uncomplicated cases
• Management is supportive

AMC Exam Applications:

• Differential diagnosis of respiratory infections
• Patient communication about viral illnesses
• Evidence-based management of upper respiratory tract infections
• Understanding when to test vs. treat empirically

Key Takeaway for AMC Candidates

The AMC examinations frequently test your ability to:

1. Reassure worried patients about media-reported health concerns
2. Provide evidence-based information
3. Recognize when testing or specialist referral is warranted
4. Apply Australian clinical guidelines for respiratory infections

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4. Weight-Loss Medications and PBS Listing: Access and Equity in Obesity Treatment

The Push for Subsidized Access

In July 2025, Australia's Health Minister sought Pharmaceutical Benefits Advisory Committee (PBAC) advice on equitable access to obesity medications. This reflects growing recognition of obesity as a chronic disease requiring medical intervention.

Medications Under Discussion

GLP-1 Receptor Agonists:

• Semaglutide (Ozempic, Wegovy)
• Tirzepatide (Mounjaro)
• Liraglutide (Saxenda)

Current PBS Status:

• Type 2 diabetes indications: Listed on PBS
• Weight loss indications: Not subsidized (as of 2025)
• Cost barrier: $300-400/month out-of-pocket

Clinical and Ethical Considerations

For AMC Candidates:

• Health Equity: Understanding disparities in access to obesity treatment
• GP Advocacy Role: Supporting patients in navigating medication access
• Clinical Guidelines: Therapeutic Guidelines for obesity management
• Patient-Centered Care: Discussing cost, benefits, and alternatives transparently

AMC Exam Scenarios:

• Counseling patients about weight management options
• Discussing medication costs and PBS eligibility
• Shared decision-making about treatment choices
• Ethical considerations in prescribing expensive medications

Australian Approach to Obesity Management

1. Holistic Assessment: Metabolic complications, mental health, social determinants
2. Multi-Disciplinary Care: Dietitians, exercise physiologists, psychologists
3. Medication as Adjunct: Combined with lifestyle modification, not replacement
4. Long-term Management: Chronic disease framework, not quick fix

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5. Vitamin B6 Restrictions: TGA Safety Concerns and Practice Implications

The Regulatory Change

In June 2025, the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) proposed making some high-dose Vitamin B6 products pharmacist-only, due to mounting safety concerns about peripheral neuropathy.

Clinical Significance

Safety Concerns:

• Peripheral Neuropathy: Dose-dependent nerve damage
• Chronic High-Dose Use: Risk increases with prolonged supplementation >100mg/day
• Irreversibility: Some neurological damage may be permanent
• Symptom Recognition: Paresthesias, numbness, gait disturbance

GP Responsibilities:

• Counsel patients on safe vitamin supplementation
• Recognize symptoms of vitamin B6 toxicity
• Assess need for supplementation vs. dietary sources
• Monitor patients on long-term high-dose supplements

AMC Examination Relevance

Clinical Scenarios:

• Patient presenting with peripheral neuropathy (detailed history reveals supplement use)
• Counseling about vitamin supplementation safety
• Understanding TGA medication scheduling system
• Evidence-based approach to nutritional supplementation

Key Learning Points:

1. Not all "natural" products are safe
2. Australian regulatory framework is evidence-based
3. GPs must inquire about over-the-counter medications and supplements
4. Patient education about appropriate use

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6. Gestational Diabetes Guidelines Update: A 'Milestone' Change

The Paradigm Shift

In June 2025, new Australian clinical guidelines raised the threshold for diagnosing gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), ending years of debate about over-diagnosis and addressing concerns about unnecessary medicalization of pregnancy.

What Changed

Previous Criteria (IADPSG/WHO 2013):

• Fasting glucose ≥5.1 mmol/L
• 1-hour post-75g OGTT ≥10.0 mmol/L
• 2-hour post-75g OGTT ≥8.5 mmol/L

New Australian Criteria (2025):

• Raised thresholds (specific values to be confirmed in updated guidelines)
• Evidence-based approach balancing maternal and fetal outcomes
• Reduced over-diagnosis while maintaining safety

Clinical Implications for IMGs

Why This Matters:

• Over-diagnosis Concerns: Previous criteria led to ~15-20% GDM prevalence
• Intervention Burden: Unnecessary glucose monitoring, dietary restrictions, anxiety
• Resource Allocation: Focus on genuinely high-risk pregnancies
• Patient Experience: Reduced medicalization of normal pregnancy

AMC Exam Applications:

• Antenatal care management
• Interpreting OGTT results
• Counseling pregnant women about GDM screening
• Understanding Australian maternity care guidelines

Practice Pearls for Australian General Practice

1. Shared Antenatal Care: GPs co-manage with obstetricians
2. Risk Factor Assessment: Family history, ethnicity, BMI, previous GDM
3. Lifestyle First: Diet and exercise before pharmacotherapy
4. Postpartum Follow-Up: Screen for type 2 diabetes at 6-12 weeks
5. Long-term Risk: Counsel about future diabetes risk

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7. ADHD Prescribing Rights for GPs: Expanding Primary Care Scope

The Policy Change

In February 2025, Western Australian GPs gained authority to diagnose, initiate, and manage ADHD stimulant medications, a significant expansion of general practice scope.

Background and Significance

Previous Model:

• Specialist (psychiatrist/paediatrician) diagnosis and initiation required
• GPs could prescribe ongoing medication under specialist supervision
• Long waitlists for specialist appointments (6-12 months common)
• Access barriers for regional and rural patients

New Model (WA):

• Trained GPs can diagnose ADHD
• Initiate stimulant medication
• Manage ongoing treatment independently
• Specialist consultation for complex cases

Clinical Framework for GP ADHD Management

Diagnostic Process:

1. Comprehensive Assessment: ADHD rating scales, collateral history, developmental history
2. Differential Diagnosis: Exclude anxiety, depression, learning disabilities, sleep disorders
3. Comorbidity Screening: High rates of anxiety, depression, substance use
4. Functional Impairment: Impact on work, relationships, daily functioning

Medication Management:

• First-line: Methylphenidate or dexamphetamine
• Monitoring: Blood pressure, heart rate, growth (children), mental health
• Non-pharmacological: CBT, psychoeducation, workplace accommodations
• Regulatory Compliance: Stimulant prescription requirements, state regulations

AMC Exam Relevance

Clinical Exam Stations:

• ADHD assessment in adult or adolescent patient
• Medication counseling (stimulants)
• Managing treatment-resistant ADHD
• Addressing parental concerns about stimulant safety

MCQ Topics:

• ADHD diagnostic criteria (DSM-5)
• Stimulant medication mechanisms and side effects
• Appropriate monitoring parameters
• When to refer to specialist

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8. MBS Telehealth Changes: MyMedicare and Access Reforms

The Regulatory Shift

From November 1, 2025, patient telehealth access was tied to registration with a MyMedicare practice, representing a significant change to Australia's telehealth framework established during COVID-19.

What IMGs Need to Understand

MyMedicare System:

• Voluntary patient enrolment with preferred general practice
• One GP identified as "usual GP"
• Enables coordinated, continuous care
• Required for certain MBS item access (including telehealth)

Telehealth Changes:

• Continuity Requirement: Patients must be enrolled with practice for most telehealth items
• Exceptions: New patients, urgent care, specific circumstances
• Video vs. Phone: Different MBS items, different requirements
• Documentation: Enhanced record-keeping expectations

Clinical Implications for Australian Practice

Benefits:

• Improved care continuity
• Better chronic disease management
• Enhanced GP-patient relationship
• Reduced inappropriate telehealth use

Challenges:

• Access barriers for transient populations
• Rural and remote considerations
• Technology literacy requirements
• Practice administrative burden

AMC Examination Context

Professional Skills Assessment:

• Understanding Australian healthcare system structure
• MBS billing knowledge
• Patient enrolment and registration systems
• Appropriate telehealth use

Communication Skills:

• Explaining MyMedicare to patients
• Managing expectations about telehealth access
• Encouraging practice enrolment

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9. Semaglutide's Broad Impact: Beyond Weight Loss and Diabetes

The Research Findings

A major 2025 study found that GLP-1 receptor agonists reduced 42 health outcomes but increased 19 others, demonstrating far-reaching therapeutic potential beyond metabolic disease.

Positive Outcomes (Examples)

Cardiovascular:

• Reduced MACE (major adverse cardiovascular events)
• Lower risk of heart failure hospitalization
• Improved endothelial function

Metabolic:

• Improved liver function in NAFLD/NASH
• Reduced HbA1c and insulin resistance
• Weight loss and metabolic syndrome improvement

Other Benefits:

• Reduced chronic kidney disease progression
• Lower inflammatory markers
• Potential neuroprotective effects

Concerning Adverse Outcomes

Gastrointestinal:

• Increased gastroparesis risk
• Biliary disease
• Pancreatitis (rare)

Other Concerns:

• Thyroid C-cell tumors (animal studies)
• Hypoglycemia (when combined with other agents)
• Injection site reactions

Clinical Decision-Making Framework

For AMC Candidates:

1. Risk-Benefit Analysis: Individualized patient assessment
2. Shared Decision-Making: Discussing pros and cons transparently
3. Monitoring: Regular follow-up for side effects and efficacy
4. Deprescribing: Recognizing when to stop or adjust therapy

AMC Exam Applications:

• Pharmacology of novel agents
• Evidence-based prescribing
• Patient counseling about medication risks/benefits
• Managing medication side effects

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10. July 1 MBS Changes: Chronic Disease Management Framework Overhaul

The Significance

According to RACGP polling, changes to the Chronic Disease Management (CDM) framework ranked as the most impactful development of 2025 (39% of GPs), affecting how Australian general practice manages chronic conditions.

Key MBS Changes

Chronic Disease Management:

• Modified GP Management Plan (GPMP) requirements
• Team Care Arrangement (TCA) updates
• Enhanced multidisciplinary care coordination
• Improved remuneration for complex patients

Vitamin B12 Testing:

• Restrictions on MBS-funded B12 testing
• Clinical indication requirements
• Reduced inappropriate testing

COVID-19 Support Items:

• Phase-out of pandemic-specific MBS items
• Return to standard respiratory infection management
• Telehealth item modifications

Understanding CDM for AMC Exams

What Is Chronic Disease Management? Australian general practice framework for coordinating care for patients with chronic conditions (diabetes, COPD, heart failure, etc.).

Key Components:

1. GP Management Plan (GPMP): Written plan developed with patient, outlining treatment goals and strategies
2. Team Care Arrangement (TCA): Coordinates services from at least two other healthcare providers (dietitian, physiologist, podiatrist, etc.)
3. Review Cycles: Regular structured reviews (3-6 monthly)
4. Patient Empowerment: Active patient participation in care planning

MBS Items:

• Item 721: GPMP preparation
• Item 723: TCA coordination
• Item 732: Review of GPMP/TCA

AMC Clinical Exam Relevance

Stations May Include:

• Creating a chronic disease management plan
• Coordinating multidisciplinary care
• Reviewing and updating existing care plans
• Explaining CDM framework to patients

Skills Assessed:

• Understanding Australian primary care systems
• Multidisciplinary collaboration
• Patient-centered care planning
• MBS knowledge and appropriate billing

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How These Stories Impact Your AMC Preparation

For AMC MCQ Exam

Essential Knowledge Areas:

1. Current Australian Clinical Guidelines: Diabetes, obesity, ADHD, gestational diabetes
2. Medication Knowledge: Novel agents (GLP-1RAs, tirzepatide), their indications and side effects
3. TGA Regulatory Framework: Medication approvals, safety monitoring, scheduling
4. MBS System: Understanding healthcare financing, billing items, access requirements
5. Public Health: Emerging infections, vaccination programs, population health approaches

Study Strategy:

• Review Therapeutic Guidelines (eTG) regularly
• Follow RACGP and RACP updates
• Understand Australian-specific approaches that differ from your home country
• Practice questions on current Australian clinical scenarios

For AMC Clinical Exam

Communication Skills:

• Explaining new medications and their risks/benefits
• Discussing access barriers (PBS, cost, availability)
• Shared decision-making conversations
• Patient education about regulatory changes

Clinical Reasoning:

• Applying updated guidelines (GDM, diabetes, obesity)
• Recognizing medication side effects (vitamin B6 neuropathy, GLP-1RA effects)
• Appropriate use of MBS items and telehealth
• Multidisciplinary care coordination

Professionalism:

• Understanding Australian healthcare system
• Advocacy for patient access to care
• Evidence-based practice
• Staying current with clinical developments

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Australian Healthcare System Insights for IMGs

Key Differences from Other Countries

1. Primary Care Gatekeeping:

• GPs coordinate specialist referrals
• Chronic disease management centered in general practice
• Strong emphasis on continuity of care

2. Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS):

• Government-subsidized healthcare
• Item number billing system
• Specific requirements for different consultations

3. Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS):

• Subsidized medication access
• Tiered pricing (general vs. concession)
• PBAC evaluates cost-effectiveness

4. Regulatory Framework:

• TGA medication approval and safety monitoring
• AHPRA professional regulation
• State-based variations in prescribing rights

5. Multidisciplinary Care:

• Allied health integration (physio, dietitian, psychologist)
• Enhanced Primary Care items
• Coordinated team-based approach

Cultural Competency in Australian Practice

Patient Expectations:

• Informed consent and shared decision-making
• Transparency about costs and treatment options
• Respectful communication
• Evidence-based explanations

Professional Standards:

• Patient-centered care
• Cultural safety (especially for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander patients)
• Continuous professional development
• Ethical prescribing (especially opioids, stimulants, benzodiazepines)

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Resources for Staying Current with Australian General Practice

Essential Reading for AMC Candidates

1. RACGP Resources:

• newsGP (weekly updates)
• RACGP Guidelines (Red Book)
• Australian Journal of General Practice (AJGP)

2. Therapeutic Guidelines:

• eTG Complete (subscription required)
• Regular updates on medication and treatment approaches
• Evidence-based clinical recommendations

3. Government Resources:

• Department of Health website
• TGA safety alerts and updates
• MBS Online (billing information)
• PBS Schedule

4. Professional Colleges:

• RACP (specialist medicine)
• RANZCOG (obstetrics and gynecology)
• RANZCP (psychiatry)

How GdayDoctor Keeps You Updated

As part of our AMC MCQ Exam Preparation Course, we integrate current Australian clinical developments:

✅ Regular Content Updates: Questions and explanations reflect latest guidelines ✅ Clinical Scenario Practice: Real-world Australian GP situations ✅ Australian System Context: MBS, PBS, TGA framework education ✅ Expert Tutors: Registered Australian doctors with current practice experience ✅ Study Resources: Links to Therapeutic Guidelines and RACGP materials

Want to stay ahead?

• Explore our free daily questions featuring current Australian clinical scenarios
• Join 1,500+ successful IMGs who prepared with GdayDoctor
• Access AMC-specific study materials aligned with Australian practice

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Conclusion: Preparing for Australian Medical Practice

The top general practice stories of 2025 illustrate the dynamic, evidence-based nature of Australian healthcare. From groundbreaking obesity medications to refined diagnostic criteria for gestational diabetes, Australian medicine continuously evolves to improve patient outcomes and health equity.

For International Medical Graduates preparing for AMC examinations, understanding these developments is essential. The AMC assesses not just your general medical knowledge, but your readiness to practice medicine in the Australian context - with Australian guidelines, medications, healthcare systems, and patient expectations.

Your Next Steps

1. Stay Informed:

• Follow RACGP newsGP for weekly updates
• Review Therapeutic Guidelines regularly
• Join GdayDoctor's AMC preparation community

2. Practice Australian Clinical Scenarios:

• Use GdayDoctor's 2,000+ AMC-style questions
• Take mock exams simulating real AMC format
• Get feedback from Australian doctor tutors

3. Understand the Healthcare System:

• Learn MBS billing and items
• Understand PBS medication access
• Familiarize yourself with TGA processes

4. Build Clinical Knowledge:

• Current Australian guidelines (diabetes, obesity, ADHD, antenatal care)
• Novel medications and their Australian availability
• Chronic disease management frameworks

Ready to Excel in Your AMC Exams?

Join 1,500+ successful IMGs who prepared with GdayDoctor's comprehensive AMC MCQ preparation course:

• ✅ 2,000+ current Australian clinical scenario questions
• ✅ Regular updates reflecting latest guidelines and developments
• ✅ Expert support from registered Australian doctors
• ✅ Mock exams in AMC format
• ✅ Performance analytics identifying your weak areas

Start your AMC preparation today: Explore Free Sample Questions

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How often do Australian clinical guidelines change? A: Major guidelines are reviewed every 3-5 years, but updates can occur more frequently based on new evidence. The AMC examinations test current Australian practice, so staying updated is essential.

Q: Are these topics likely to appear in AMC exams? A: Yes. The AMC MCQ and Clinical exams test knowledge of current Australian clinical practice, medications available in Australia, and Australian healthcare systems. Recent guideline changes and new medication approvals are commonly tested.

Q: How can I access Australian clinical guidelines as an IMG? A: Many are freely available online (RACGP guidelines, Department of Health resources). Therapeutic Guidelines requires a subscription but is essential for AMC preparation. GdayDoctor course materials integrate these guidelines.

Q: Do I need to know MBS item numbers for AMC exams? A: Not specific item numbers, but you should understand the MBS system, what types of consultations are billable, and how Australia's healthcare funding works. The Clinical Exam may assess your understanding of referral pathways and coordination of care.

Q: How different is Australian general practice from my home country? A: Significant differences exist in prescribing rights, available medications, diagnostic criteria (as seen with GDM changes), and healthcare system structure. AMC preparation should focus on Australian-specific approaches, not just general medical knowledge.

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About GdayDoctor: GdayDoctor is Australia's leading online AMC exam preparation platform, helping International Medical Graduates successfully navigate their pathway to Australian medical registration. Our courses are created by registered Australian doctors and updated regularly to reflect current Australian clinical practice.

Contact Us:

• 📧 Email: info@gdaydoctor.com.au
• 🌐 Website: https://gdaydoctor.com.au
• 📚 Free Resources: https://gdaydoctor.com.au/resources

Sources:

• Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP). (2025). 2025's Top General Practice Stories. newsGP. Retrieved from https://www1.racgp.org.au/newsgp/professional/2025-s-top-general-practice-stories