One step forward or two steps back?

Abstract

The Surgical Assistant Working Group (SAWG) draft report has been released,
which proposes to allow nurses in the surgical assistant role to access
a patient rebate from the Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS). This will
address some of the issues affecting access to surgery in Australia. While an
initial read of the report has buoyed the spirits of those closely involved, it
is with circumspection that we venture forward.