President’s Update on NASOG Activities – 2024

The following update was delivered by NASOG President, A/Prof Gino Pecoraro, during the 2024 Annual General Meeting.

he past year has been one of significant activity and progress for the National Association of Specialist Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (NASOG). Below is an overview of the organisation’s efforts and achievements across various domains, highlighting our commitment to advocacy, collaboration, and addressing the challenges faced by our specialty.

Cooperation with Other Societies

• Member of the Council of Procedural Specialists (COPS), with monthly meetings on matters impacting private practice.

• Ongoing involvement with AMA(NSW) on issues including indemnity cover and expectations around surgery for public patients in private hospitals.

• Close collaboration with AMA(QLD) on state maternity workforce issues.

• Involvement with Federal AMA on private practice issues, private health insurance, and interactions with Federal Parliament.

Event Participation

• The annual AGES Conference provided a platform to release work on the economic considerations within maternity care, which was well received and will guide future policy engagements.

• RANZCOG Symposium (QLD) provided an additional opportunity to raise awareness of the economic data related to maternity care.

Event Hosting

• NASOG hosted the inaugural Private Obstetric Alliance Forum in September 2024, fostering discussions on advocacy, technology, and private obstetrics outcomes data.

• Forum was a resounding success, bringing together key stakeholders to discuss and strategise on enhancing the role of private obstetrics in Australia. The discussions laid the groundwork for a unified approach to advancing the specialty.

• Subsequent Roadshow dinners have engaged collaegues in Sydney, Melbourne and Adelaide who were not able to attend the Brisbane event.

Future Event Plans

• Following the success of the Forum and based on interest from a wide range of stakeholders, NASOG will host the Australian Birth Forum in Sydney on 4-5 April 2025.

Federal Politics

• NASOG’s policy platform remains focused on making private obstetric care more attractive to patients to alleviate pressure on the public system, provide career opportunities for Young Fellows, and support regional services.

• A detailed pre-budget submission was made to highlight the need for increased MBS rebates for maternity care.

• Welcomed funding for Women’s Health in the 2024 Federal Budget, while noting insufficient support for the profession.

Media

• Provided over 120 media interviews and editorial contributions, leading to widespread coverage across mainstream, medical, and consumer media platforms.

• Highlighted issues such as the regional maternity crisis, allied health scope of practice, and the challenges in private obstetrics.

• Co-authored a paper with Prof Steve Robson and Prof Caroline De Costa on the challenges facing private obstetric practice, published in the MJA.

NASOG Council

• A new Council was elected at the 2023 AGM, with increased representation from younger specialists in private O&G practice.

• Several Council members actively participated in media commentary and advocacy efforts across jurisdictions.

Patient and Stakeholder Engagement

• Engaged with the Australian Birth Trauma Association on maternity unit closures and the NSW Birth Trauma Inquiry outcomes.

• Continued positive collaboration with RANZCOG, despite challenges in representation on the College’s Private Practice Committee.

State Politics

• Worked on the Central Queensland maternity crisis, including meetings with Government and Opposition, alongside media engagement.

• Provided support for members in Western Australia, Tasmania, and Victoria facing private maternity unit closures.

NASOG remains steadfast in its advocacy for the Obstetrics and Gynaecology specialty. Our efforts continue to focus on addressing challenges, supporting our members and improving healthcare outcomes for women and families across Australia.

Thanks to all members for your ongoing support and commitment.

A/Prof Gino Pecoraro NASOG President

During the 2024 AGM, a new Council Leadership team was elected and new faces joined the NASOG Council. Click HERE to see your current Council representatives.