Cultural grants are being launched by a leading medical body to better foster cultural awareness in the treatment of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island patients in the Northern Territory.

The General Practice Registrars Australia (GPRA) has launched the Cultural Education Grants for NT-based registrars, with $500 available for GP registrars from all pathways to help them "access further cultural education development opportunities" in their training.

GPRA President, Dr Karyn Matterson, said the grants were a significant step for healthcare providers in the Territory being able to better serve Indigenous people.

"As the only national independent voice for future GPs, GPRA is dedicated to promoting equitable healthcare access for all Australians, particularly First Nations peoples," she said.

"GPRA wants to step up and help support Aboriginal and Torres Islander peoples get access to future GPs."

The NT government has highlighted a need to address its shortage of doctors by allowing health services to temporarily employ overseas-trained doctors.

Medical care Australia-wide has expanded its focus on culturally aware training for medical professionals, especially when treating First Nations' patients. A greater emphasis has been placed on intergenerational trauma experienced by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people who enter the medical system.

The last fortnight has seen a coronial inquest in Dubbo analyse the death of Kamilaroi-Dunghutti man Ricky 'Dougie' Hampson, who died after a misdiagnosis. The coroner is analysing if racial bias played a role in his lack of adequate treatment.

Dr Matterson said cultural awareness played a pivotal role in delivering holistic healthcare, and argued the grants will equip future GPs with the necessary knowledge and skills to provide culturally competent care.

"Understanding the cultural nuances of working with First Nations communities is fundamental to providing culturally safe primary health care services," she said.

Applicants can apply for cultural education courses, as well as purchase relevant resources with their grant. These may include extending their knowledge of Indigenous history and culture, exploring how attitudes and values influence perceptions and assumptions in a clinical setting, and identifying ways a GP can be more culturally aware for First Nations patients.

The application period for the Cultural Education Grants will close on 30 October.

More information is available via the GPRA website.