The Royal Australian College of GPs (RACGP) is highlighting the vital role GPs play in protecting Australians’ sight, with the July 2026 issue of the Australian Journal of General Practice (AJGP), themed ‘Ophthalmology’, focusing on the early recognition and management of eye conditions in primary care.
With Australia’s population ageing, conditions such as glaucoma and age-related macular degeneration are becoming increasingly common, while vision-related driving impairment is also expected to rise. Early recognition and timely referral can prevent disease progression, irreversible vision loss and significant impacts on patients’ quality of life.
In a media release, RACGP president Dr Michael Wright said GPs were uniquely placed to identify patients at risk and coordinate their care.
“Our eyesight is something many of us take for granted until it begins to deteriorate, but for many serious eye conditions, early detection can make all the difference,” he said.
“GPs are often the first health professionals patients turn to when they notice changes in their vision.
“We may not provide the definitive diagnosis, but we play a critical role in recognising the early signs of eye disease, assessing risk, and ensuring patients receive timely care from optometrists and ophthalmologists.
“General practice is uniquely positioned to change the trajectory of under-recognised causes of irreversible vision loss. Our strength lies in vigilance and continuity of care.”
The release said the July AJGP issue explores common and serious eye conditions encountered in general practice, including glaucoma, retinal detachment, thyroid eye disease, ophthalmic trauma, and age-related macular degeneration.
It also examines GPs’ responsibilities in assessing patients’ fitness to drive according to visual standards.
“As Australians live longer, preserving vision will become increasingly important for maintaining independence, wellbeing and the ability to safely undertake everyday activities, including driving,” Dr Wright said.
