A uniform data set for determining outcomes in allied health primary contact services in Australia
Nicole Moretto
A B C , Michelle Stute B , Sonia Sam B , Marita Bhagwat B , Maree Raymer B , Peter Buttrum B , Merrilyn Banks B and Tracy A. Comans A B
+ Author Affiliations
- Author Affiliations
A Centre for Health Services Research, The University of Queensland, Princess Alexandra Hospital campus, Woolloongabba, Qld 4102, Australia.
B Metro North Hospital and Health Service, Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital, Butterfield Street, Herston, Qld 4029, Australia.
C Corresponding author: Email: N.Moretto@uq.edu.au
Australian Journal of Primary Health 26(1) 58-69 https://doi.org/10.1071/PY18104
Submitted: 9 July 2018 Accepted: 23 September 2019 Published: 20 January 2020
Abstract
The project aim was to develop and implement a set of metrics to capture and demonstrate the performance of newly established allied health primary contact services. Selection of the metrics and performance indicators was guided by an existing state-wide data collection system and from a review of the published literature. The metrics were refined after consultation with a working group of health service managers and clinicians. The data collection and reporting framework were developed for use in allied health primary contact services and implemented at public health facilities in Queensland, Australia. The set of metrics consists of 18 process and outcome measures. Patient-reported metrics include the global rating of change scale and patient satisfaction. Service metrics include wait times; referral source; triage category; diagnosis; occasions of service; referrals and investigations initiated; effects; care duration; discharge status; waitlist reinstatement reasons; treatment non-completion reasons; and expedited care. Safety, patient demographics and service improvement metrics were included. The metrics will enable analysis of the effectiveness of allied health primary contact services and will facilitate reporting, advocacy, service improvement, service continuity and research. The metrics are suitable for use by all providers of allied health primary contact services in hospital and primary care settings.
Additional keywords: health services research, models of care, performance and evaluation, quality and safety.
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