It's a complicated issue with no quick fixes. But with every year our population continues to get older and sicker - we are facing a demographic time bomb.

Sill, our focus continues to sit at the acute end of care, with every election cycle (state and federal) bringing with it the tired dialogue of "record funding".

But where has it got us?

As columnist Barry Prismall describes it today, for politicians trying to tame the perineal hospital crisis - they may as well be using a garden hose to put out a bushfire.

For a long time Tasmania has worn the unfortunate badge of having some of the worst bulk-billing rates in the country. It's estimated about half of the population face out-of-pocket costs when visiting a doctor.

Still, along with allied health professionals, GPs should always be the first point of call for someone when it comes to managing their health - rather than heading straight to the ED because there's no other choice.

But like many in the health sector, doctors are facing their own challenges. For a long time GPs have been calling out for recognition of the "on-the-ground" differences between providing care in regional, rural and remote areas, compared to larger metropolitan cities.

This is ever-present in Tasmania, with about half of the population (57 per cent) estimated to be living outside of the capital city. And, it's no coincidence that those living in rural and remote communities also experience significantly worse outcomes. It's also not fair.

Ahead of Tuesday's federal budget, the government has unveiled a $65 million plan to boost bulk-billing rebates, aimed at providing more affordable healthcare for patients in regional, rural and remote areas.

The move has been welcomed by many, including the Rural Doctors Association of Australia who says it marks an important shift in government policy and a recognition of the "real rural".

But while welcoming of the government's intent, Tasmanian GPs so far seem less optimistic. Rather to them, the latest funding commitment, ahead of a looming federal election, marks a step in the right direction - but not a solution. What difference it will make to the out-of-pocket costs of people already struggling, remains to be seen.

What's certain is that no one should have to choose between being able to afford a visit to their GP, over putting food on the table. But sadly, this is the reality facing too many Tasmanians - most of which will eventually end up in our state's hospitals.

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