Enhance general practice operations through Practice Transformation initiative
South Western Sydney PHN (SWSPHN) has introduced Practice Transformation to guide our region’s general practices in implementing new processes and participating in programs which will contribute to their becoming high performing practices.
Practice Transformation is the term used to describe the process for achieving the Quadruple Aim of:
- Improving the health of our community
- Enhancing patient experiences
- Reducing healthcare costs
- Better supporting health professionals
All practices across South Western Sydney are invited to participate.
SWSPHN’s team of Practice Support Officers (PSOs) facilitate improvements in one or more aspects of your general practice.
They do this by:
- Assisting in the introductions of weekly huddles and/or staff meetings at the practice to improve communication between all practice staff
- Supporting unaccredited general practices through the accreditation process
- Connecting practices with the SWSPHN Digital Health team to register for telehealth options
Features of high performing practices include:
Team-based care: While GPs have the ultimate responsibility for their patients’ care, the general practice team plays a vital role in supporting the delivery of care. Co-locating clinicians and non-clinical staff, with agreed ground rules, a respectful culture and daily huddles, allows for effective shared care.
Engaged leadership: Leaders at all levels of the organisation are fully engaged in the process of change, identifying priorities and setting measurable goals and objectives.
Patient-centred care: Empower patients to be involved in decisions regarding their health. Clinicians consider a patient’s culture, background, circumstances and personal goals to foster an ongoing relationship between patient and GP.
Co-ordinated comprehensive care: Effective communication supports a smooth patient journey through the various levels of the healthcare system. Patients have access to a multidisciplinary team of care-providers who are wholly accountable for the primary healthcare needs of the patient.
Continuity: Patients are more likely to receive appropriate, patient-centred care and reduced hospitalisation, with a regular GP coordinating the management of their healthcare needs.
Accessibility: Accessible care encompasses three key elements:
- Cultural appropriateness, providing a culturally safe and sensitive environment for patients
- Physical access, offering alternative types of clinical encounters. For example, phone, video consultations and home visits
- Cost of services
Data-driven improvement: Using computer-based technology to monitor a practice’s progress towards clinical and operational objectives.
If your practice would like to be involved in Practice Transformation, please contact your Practice Support Officer.
