A narrative review and synthesis to inform health workforce preparation for the Health Care Homes model in primary healthcare in Australia
Rachel McKittrick A B and Rosemary McKenzie A
+ Author Affiliations
- Author Affiliations
A Centre for Health Policy, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, Level 4, 207 Bouverie Street, The University of Melbourne, Vic. 3010, Australia.
B Corresponding author. Email: rachel.mckittrick@unimelb.edu.au
Australian Journal of Primary Health 24(4) 317-329 https://doi.org/10.1071/PY18045
Submitted: 12 March 2018 Accepted: 03 July 2018 Published: 14 August 2018
Abstract
The Australian Government Health Care Homes (HCH) model recently implemented in general practice targets people with chronic complex conditions. Identifying how general practitioners (GPs) and practice nurses (PNs) can work within this model is important given existing health workforce challenges. A narrative review and synthesis has been undertaken to develop a preliminary understanding of this, incorporating literature describing health workforce challenges, GP and PN functions, and team-based care; supplemented by interviews with key informants from within the primary healthcare system. Narrative synthesis principles guided literature analysis. Interview data were thematically analysed. A clear rationale for health workforce reform was ascertained and functions for the GP and PN under the HCH model were determined. The model was found to be an opportunity for an enhanced PN role in a team-based approach to care with the GP. Challenges to advancing the PN role and team-based care were identified, including the medical dominance of the health system and the significant culture change required by general practices to fully implement the model. Enablers included strong nursing leadership and improved ongoing education for PNs to unlock their capacity. The HCH model is an opportunity to strengthen primary healthcare, provided concerted action is taken regarding these challenges and enablers.
Additional keywords: general practice, general practitioner, nurse, practice nurse, primary health roles.
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