The Federal Opposition is a good example of the AMA’s influence. It has already supported the call for a national compensation scheme, saying it “makes sense” to introduce a system for severely injured patients so they don’t have to depend on the courts for reprieve.

“Much could be done through a national scheme to rein in the increasing cost of medical indemnity insurance, now placing upward pressure on the cost of medical services to consumers,” Opposition health spokesman Stephen Smith said.

The insurance industry, which has much to lose and possibly something to gain from these rumblings for change, has not said anything on the issue lately, possibly because there’s no point in getting into a debate with Dr Phelps.

However, Mr Smith said the ALP doesn’t support the AMA in calling for patients to completely lose their right to sue doctors.