Doctors are joining the push for a national disability insurance scheme.

Australian Medical Association (AMA) President Andrew Pesce says the association has formally pledged its support for the scheme proposed by the nation’s disability and community sector.

Under the proposal, an insurance-centred safety net publicly funded though general revenue or an extension of the Medicare levy would replace the current welfare-based model for people with disabilities.

While those who acquire a disability through a workplace or motor accident generally receive financial support, people who acquire permanent disabilities in other ways or are born with a permanent disability have no automatic support system to meet their needs.