Evaluation of a program to assist usage of the Enhanced Primary Care case conferencing and care planning items: The allied health professionals' viewpoint

Abstract

The General Practice Education, Support and Community Linkages Program was introduced to formally support implementation and appropriate use of the Enhanced Primary Care Medicare Benefits Schedule items. This paper reports upon the Program?s implementation from the allied health professional?s perspective. Semi-structured interviews were conducted in 2002 with healthcare staff trained under the Program. While interviewees noted achievements in the items? uptake during the Program, allied health involvement in case conferencing and care planning had been impeded by GPs? limited adoption of the items. Allied health professionals were broadly interested in participating in care planning and case conferencing with GPs. The General Practice Education, Support and Community Linkages Program supported implementation and appropriate use of the Enhanced Primary Care Medicare Benefits Schedule items. While allied health professionals are generally interested in participating in care planning and case conferencing with GPs, such activity requires ongoing systems support and relationship building. Ample scope remains for awareness raising, relationship building and joint activities across the sector. Future item usage will need to be supported by resources and continued relationship building.