RACGP updates the definition of general practices

April 3, 2024

The RACGP published a new definition of a general practice for accreditation in the Standards for general practices (5th edition).

The definition change means that access to accreditation against the Standards is now extended to non-traditional general practice models, which may include mobile services (such as outreach disability services) or those servicing a specific patient cohort within facilities (e.g. Residential aged care facilities (RACFs) or disability homes).

The updated definition does not exclude currently accredited services by adding limiting parameters.

RACGP have developed an Interpretive guide for the accreditation of general practices under the new definition of a general practice for the purpose of accreditation, which assists practices seeking accreditation, and agencies and surveyors assessing practices under the new definition.

Practices who want to know about their eligibility for accreditation can contact an accreditation agency approved under the National General Practice Accreditation Scheme.

For more information or assistance, contact standards@racgp.org.au.

Latest news

August 12, 2026
Recent vaccine supply and distribution issues have caused temporary vaccine shortages of the Capvaxive ® (pneumococcal) vaccine.
August 12, 2026
Throughout July and August, all Australians aged 50 will receive a letter about reducing their dementia risk. Some patients may bring the letter or a dementia risk assessment report to appointments to ask questions or seek support.
August 7, 2026
The purpose of this activity is to ensure patients with a mental health diagnosis (particularly high-risk mental health patients, e.g. bipolar disorder and a Mental Health Treatment Plan) that require phone (level C or D) and/or videoconference longer appointments (level C, D or E) are identified and proactively offered MyMedicare registration supporting continuity of care and improved outcomes.