Towards a National Primary Health Care Strategy
A Discussion Paper from the Australian Government
Commonwealth of Australia 2008
Available online as PDF file [48p.] at:
http://www.health.gov.au/internet/main/publishing.nsf/Content/D66FEE14F736A789CA2574E3001783C0/$File/DiscussionPaper.pdf
Website: http://www.health.gov.au/internet/main/publishing.nsf/Content/PHS-DiscussionPaper
The Discussion Paper 'Towards a National Primary Health Care Strategy' provides information and a series of questions to assist individuals and organisations to structure their input to development of the Strategy through written submission, by the end of Februrary 2009.
“….Process for development of Australia’s National Primary Health Care Strategy
The Australian Government has committed to the development of Australia’s first National Primary Health Care Strategy (‘the Strategy’). Developing the Strategy will require consideration of a wide range of issues associated with the current planning, delivery, governance and financing of primary health care services in Australia, some of which cut across Commonwealth, state and territory responsibilities.
Future directions and reforms, to be identified through the Strategy, will need to recognise and build on the many aspects of our system which are working well. Importantly, the Strategy needs to recognise the critical contribution of the many dedicated health care professionals who are delivering services in our communities….”
“…..This Discussion Paper is intended to provide a broad framework and basic information on key issues impacting on primary health care. Its purpose is to stimulate input and comment to assist in the development of the Strategy.
This Paper proposes 10 elements which could underpin a future primary health care system and for each one provides a snapshot of:
• What happens now?
• What does this mean for the community and health consumers?
• What does this mean for health professionals?
• Where could changes be made?
Input on any aspects of these 10 elements, or on additional matters relevant to the Strategy, is welcome…”
Contents
Preface
Introduction
Why a National Primary Health Care Strategy?
What are the key elements of an enhanced primary health care system?
1. Accessible, clinically and culturally appropriate, timely and affordable
2. Patient-centred and supportive of health literacy, self-management and individual preference
3. More focussed on preventive care, including support of healthy lifestyles
4. Well-integrated, coordinated, and providing continuity of care, particularly for those with multiple, ongoing and complex conditions
5. Safe, high-quality care which is continually improving through relevant research and innovation
6. Better management of health information, underpinned by efficient and effective use of eHealth
7. Flexibility to best respond to local community needs and circumstances through sustainable and efficient operational models
8. Working environments and conditions which attract, support and retain workforce
9. High-quality education and training arrangements for both new and existing workforce
10. Fiscally sustainable, efficient and cost-effective
References
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