Scope of Works

In scope:

This project requires interrogation and analysis of a broad range of domains of interest. Information will be sourced from research and evidence, interviews, and group consultations. Attachment 2 lists key documents for broad summary information and it is expected considerable research beyond these would be undertaken.

The following domains of interest need to be addressed to inform future development in our Primary Care program:

1. Local population growth Will we need to grow to meet population needs? How big? Which markets offer the best fit and potential to focus on?

2. Primary care in Community Health – Understanding the external context. How do we align with broader primary care in community health initiatives and directions? How can we ensure we benefit from this broader work?

3. Integration and Multidisciplinary care – how do we do this better with Allied Health and other programs across BCH? What is the latest evidence we can build and shape our practices on?

4. Models of team care and use of nursing staff. Review current practice; review alternative models; look at different business models; look how we can enhance patient care.

5. Employment vs contractor arrangements – Review current and alternative models of employment – pros and cons. Especially consider how to ensure GP, allied health and pediatrician engagement in quality activities (e.g., team meetings; cross organisational meetings, professional development etc.) and integration into BCH e.g., representation on quality of care committee etc.).

6. Customer service interface – Explore main issues; look at pros and cons of site based versus the centrally managed models for customer service and other ways of improving this fraught area. Look across GPs, allied health, specialist clinics and other programs.

7. Clinical leadership and governance – why do we need it? How could we benefit  from it? What would be the best (and affordable) model for a sustainable long term approach? Review the organisational structure for those involved in the primary care program.

8. Workforce development – how do we support professional development for GPs and other primary care staff – and ensure in line with BCH needs? How should we use students, registrars, nurse practitioners to develop workforce pipeline etc. What is the impact and influence of broader policy e.g. district of workforce shortage?

9. Facilities and equipment – fit for purpose IT/Phones/Buildings. What inhibits/limits our potential growth? How do we plan better for growth?

10. Communication and team culture – what works well and what doesn’t to ensure regular, easy, proactive communication of information? what do we need for the future? How do we work as a supportive team living the BCH values?

11. Business models and financial analysis – To ensure a realistic and sustainable business model is developed for the future, what data collection and metrics do we need? Where would we get them from internally and externally? Where are economies of scale found and at what size are optimal gains made? What are  our points of difference to other GP and primary care options and our value proposition?

It is expected that evidence and best practice will be utilised along with co-design principles including individual interviews, group workshops and reflective practices.

It is also expected the consultant/s will work closely and collaboratively with other BCH staff and external consultants working on similar and interdependent projects. This will be advised and facilitated by the Executive Manager Strategy & Outcomes.

Out of scope:

Specific recommendations related to mergers and/or acquisitions are out of scope of this review, although the concept re size of the organisation could be explored (in terms of scale and market share) and recommendations made for further consideration and evaluation.

This review is not expected to formulate a new strategy but will help to inform the development of a comprehensive 10-year Primary Care strategy.

Submission to: Darlene Henning-Marshall