The aim of this program is to facilitate access and support for older people living in residential aged care facilities (RACFs) to general practices/GPs to provide optimal care and contribute to the achievement of the best possible health outcomes. The program activities include collaboration with RACFs, service providers and consumer/carer groups.

Other activities include implementing a systematic approach to support GPs visiting RACFs by using register/recall/reminder systems to identify RACF patients for review and appropriate action; promoting a fax notification priority systems from RACFs to GPs to assist GPs to plan their RACF visits and services and developing collaborative approaches to medication reviews, Comprehensive Medical Assessments and Advanced Care Directives. The program also maintains rosters at Residential Aged Care Facilities for residents without a regular GP. This also acts to maintain best practice and timely use of both GPs and RACF time with the aim of ensuring continuity of care for RACF patients.

Others aspects of the program include continued role out of the Aged Care Implementation Plan, models for addressing access to primary care in Residential Aged Care Facilities, continued recruitment and expanded GP Leaders program, and  facilitation of access to effective Continuing Professional Development (CPD) for the care needs of RACF patients.

For more information contact Shalini Chand at Bankstown GP Division on (02) 9793 8711