Page | 1
CONNECT
AUGUST 2020
adelaidephn.com.au | enquiry@adelaidephn.com.au | 8219 5900
Connect August 2020 | Adelaide PHN in Action
Central Adelaide | SA Museum, North Terrace
Contents
ADELAIDE PHN IN ACTION Program and activity highlights from the Adelaide PHN team
4 6 10 12 14 16 18 20 22 23 24 28 29 30 32
New Walk in After Hours Service for the South Supporting the Response to COVID-19 Commissioning Matters Get Screened and Get on With Living Re-Launch Introducing Two headspace Aboriginal Peer Support Workers Priority Care Centres Update Child and Adolescent Mental Health Referrals HealthPathways SA - 200 Pathways Celebration New GP Psychiatry Support Line Mother Infant DBT Program Digital Mental Health Update Walk a Mile Challenge - Supporting Homelessness Week A New Membership Model for Adelaide PHN Adelaide Integrated Respiratory Response Project Care Connections Update
33
PRIMARY CARE IN ACTION Program and activities affecting the delivery and experience of primary health care across the Adelaide region
Page | 3
Hello from the CEO | Deb Lee I hope everyone is staying safe and warm as we progress our way through this COVID-19 pandemic. Here in South Australia we have undoubtedly done a fantastic job at flattening the curve, swiftly curtailing any potential community transmission and keeping our community as safe and well as we can. Our grateful thanks to every single frontline health professional and those essential workers who have kept us all supplied throughout these trying times. We watch the situation in Victoria with concern and I know are thoughts are with all Victorians currently. Certainly, it can’t be said enough – there is no room, more so now than ever, for complacency. Physical (social) distancing is still the most important measure for infection control, alongside strict hand hygiene and cough etiquette. Adelaide PHN, alongside all PHNs across the country continue to support our general practices and other primary health care providers to continue to care for our community in the safest way possible. We are still distributing surgical masks and other items of personal protective equipment (PPE), with our four GP-led Respiratory Clinics as our number one priority. However, all general practices and allied health providers can continue to access surgical masks via our expressions of interest (EOI) form on our website. The wearing of surgical masks in public has indeed been in hot debate. In certain regions of Victoria, we have seen it become mandatory for masks to be worn whenever people leave their homes. Outside of Victoria, in places where there is no evidence of widespread community transmission, the sensible solution is for people to wear surgical masks at times when they are unable to
effectively physical distance and of course, when accessing health care if they are unwell. Surgical masks are now readily available commercially. Whilst we currently have no evidence of community transmission in SA, the wearing of masks is a protection for others if you are unwell. We continue to distribute our ‘To the Point’ bulletin which is now sent every week, on a Wednesday and at any other time when there is urgent information that providers across the metropolitan region need to know quickly. We are also still operating our provider COVID-19 Help Line (8314 3698) and continue to maintain our dedicated COVID-19 provider web page which summarises current news and available resources. Adelaide PHN still has frontline staff in SA Health’s Control Centre and we will continue to work alongside SA Health and other agencies whilst the pandemic continues to be a risk to our community. Don’t hesitate to contact us if you have any queries or if we can assist you in any way during this time. You can read more about how we are supporting you in the COVID-19 section of this issue, including some fantastic resources to support you and your primary health care team’s wellbeing. You will find lots of other useful information inside this issue of Connect – including a new headspace Centre for Marion, an update on our refined membership model, all things digital health and the importance of encouraging cancer screening – especially in a time when people well may have put off regular checks. Stay safe, well, warm and continue to be careful out there!
Connect August 2020 | Adelaide PHN in Action
The Walk In After Hours
Mental Health Service A NEW SERVICE FOR SOUTHERN ADELAIDE Delivered by Links to Wellbeing and funded by Adelaide PHN, the Walk In After Hours Mental Health Service has recently launched in the southern areas of Adelaide. This service will provide support to those struggling ‘out of hours’ with mental health concerns and face-to-face access to clinicians and staff with a lived experience of mental health. Based at the Noarlunga GP Plus Super Clinic, this new service is available for free to community members (16+) struggling with stress, grief, depression and anxiety and operates between 5:00pm and 11:00pm Monday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday. “We know that mental health challenges are not 9-5, the Walk In After Hours Mental Health Service is about providing immediate, in-person care and support for people when they are struggling after hours so they can start planning their next steps” said Deb Lee, Adelaide PHN CEO. This new service complements an existing walk-in service commissioned by Adelaide PHN for the north which has been operating from Sonder’s Edinburgh North site since August 2019. Together, they respond to an identified need in the community and are part of Adelaide PHN’s mission to improve people’s experience of the local health system and their health outcomes. “These services bridge a gap in access to appropriate after hours mental health care across our region; providing an alternative to hospital attendance and a step up from the level of care available through online or phone based services” said Deb Lee, Adelaide PHN CEO.
Page | 5
“Through the provision of the right care, at the right place, at the right time, we ensure a better experience for those who are seeking care and reduce health system costs across our region”.
The southern Walk In After Hours Mental Health Service is based at the Noarlunga GP Plus Super Clinic and available between: • 5:00pm – 11:00pm Thursday to Saturday • 5:00pm – 11:00pm Monday Find out more about the southern Walk In After Hours Service via Links to Wellbeing’s website, and the northern Walk In After hours Mental Health Service via Sonder’s website. Explore the suite of primary mental health care services commissioned by Adelaide PHN across the metropolitan region via adelaidephn.com.au/directory.
Connect August 2020 | Adelaide PHN in Action
Supporting the response to
COVID-19 Adelaide PHN continues to play a key role in the South Australian response to COVID-19; find out how we’ve been supporting the response and primary health care providers across our region below.
Advocating for the Role of Primary Health Care in the COVID-19 Response and Keeping Providers Informed Since March, Adelaide PHN has been an active partner in the SA Health COVID-19 Control Centre along with other key stakeholders including Country SA PHN, the South Australian Police (SAPOL), the South Australian Fire and Emergency Services Commission (SAFECOM) and both South Australian Metropolitan and Country Fire Services (SA MFS and CFS respectively). Together, these stakeholders have been working together to ‘flatten the curve’, reducing the spread of COVID-19 across the state, through collaboration and pooling of both resources and expertise. Across our involvement in the Control Centre, Adelaide PHN has continued to advocate for ongoing inclusion and consideration of GPs, general practice and other primary health care providers in the State’s response to COVID-19. Since early April, Adelaide PHN has led the establishment of four Commonwealth funded GP-led Respiratory Clinics across the metropolitan region - harnessing local general practice teams to provide dedicated COVID-19 testing services for those experiencing mild to moderate symptoms. As dedicated testing services, these Respiratory Clinics help maximise Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) use across our region and reduce both demand and risk to general practice teams. These clinics continue to enable providers and practice teams to return their focus to the ongoing care of patients, especially those needing management of chronic diseases. We have continued to partner with SA Health, SA Pathology and the state branches of the Australian Medical Association (AMA) and Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) to deliver regular GP Update webinars for GPs and practice staff. These webinars have helped to keep providers up to date with the response and ensure effective ongoing delivery of primary health care across our region. So far 10 webinars have been delivered. High attendance to the live sessions has at times, exceeded 600 participants, which has allowed for robust Q&A sessions and responsive discussions. The webinars have been recorded and hosted on Adelaide PHN’s
Page | 7
website for those providers who were unable to attend the live sessions, some of the more popular webinars have seen almost 400 further views. We have been communicating the relevant updates from our State and Commonwealth partners, collating only the information relevant to primary health care delivery, for providers across metropolitan Adelaide. Our popular ‘To the Point’ COVID-19 bulletins have been distributed to over 370 general practices and Aboriginal health services and over 1483 providers on at least a weekly basis. Our dedicated suite of COVID-19 webpages for providers have seen over 24,000 page views since March 2020.
Development and Distributing of Resources Across the COVID-19 pandemic, Adelaide PHN has led the distribution of PPE resources to primary health care providers across the Adelaide region. Through our Commonwealth and State partnerships, we have been able to supply providers with the PPE they need to keep safe from both the State and National
Medical Stockpiles. In addition, Adelaide PHN has been actively sourcing and funding additional PPE (such as hand sanitiser) from private suppliers to fill supply gaps and inconsistent commercial supply. General practices, pharmacies and eligible allied health providers can find out more via our PPE distribution page and request allocation via the expression of interest form. To help build resilience and support wellbeing of those working in primary health care across our region, Adelaide PHN launched both the Kite Support App and Wellbeing Starts With You platform. Kite Support is a unique app created by a team of mental health and training experts to support those working in primary health care, especially across challenging times. The app has been designed for individuals and staff teams to utalise as part of professional development and is a gentle resource to help build resilience and take care wellbeing. Anyone working in primary health care across the metropolitan region has been granted free access to this resources by Adelaide PHN, find out more via our website’s announcement.
Connect August 2020 | Adelaide PHN in Action
Re-engaging patients living with
Chronic Conditions and managing their care across COVID-19 As a result of COVID-19, many general practices have experienced a reduction in patient attendance. As patients may be hesitant to initiate appointments themselves, practices may consider the following approach and available resources to support active re-engagement of their patients and recommencement of ongoing care and management of chronic conditions.
1. Consider your approach to patient re-engagement The following table provides one way to priortise patients for re-engagment
potential for harm
examples
action
Highly likely deferral of in-person care highly likely to result in patient harm
• acute abdominal pain • health checks for newborns and their mothers • complex care patients at risk of hospitalisation (eg. multiple chronic conditions such as COPD or diabetes) • lacerations or dressing changes
Provide face to face care without delay, proceed with a telehealth screening appointment if required
Less likely deferral of in-person care may result in patient harm
• paediatric vaccinations • musculoskeletal injury • routine infusions / injections (eg. B12, iron infusions, Prolia) • low risk skin excisions or cryotherapy
Resume regular face to face care while continuing to utilise telehealth if appropriate
Unlikely deferral of in-person care unlikely to result in patient harm
• • • •
Resume regular care while continuing to utilise telehealth if appropriate
routine primary health care care for well-controlled chronic conditions routine health assessments screening for asymptomatic patients
Your Quick Guide To
TELEHEALTH TELEHEALTH IN 3 STEPS
Telehealth is the provision of health care services over the phone or via video using a computer or mobile device
1. Book an appointment
Talk to your provider to confirm the process so you know what to expect and how to prepare.
2. Your health care provider will call you at the booked time
3. Receive the same care but over video or phone
You will receive a call via the device or phone number confirmed at the time of booking. Just like a face-toface appointment it’s a good idea to be ready ahead of time for the call.
If you need any follow up care that requires faceto-face care, this can be arranged during your appointment.
Top tips to get the most out of your telehealth appointment Prepare for your appointment • Think about what you need to ask your health care provider - consider writing a short list
Prepare your space • Find a quiet, private and comfortable place to sit • Ensure you have everything you need ready such as a glass of water, tissues, pen and paper • Consider a ‘do not disturb’ sign for the door
Adelaide PHN has also led the development of several dedicated resources to support primary health care delivery across COVID-19. Our Re-engaging Patients Living with Chronic Conditions resource was developed in response to a known reduction in patientinitiated attendance at general practices across our region. The resource is an easyto-follow guide for practices, stepping staff through an approach to patient reengagement, highlighting two FREE tools available to support patient identification using practice software and highlighting relevant billing codes.
adelaidephn.com.au | enquiry@adelaidephn.com.au | 8219 5900
Your health care provider may offer a telehealth appointment or you can request one.
Wellbeing Starts With You, is an online module based learning and support platform, which offers an exciting new approach to self-care and team connection during times of challenge and change. Adelaide PHN launched this resource in collaboration with AGPAL with a vision to create a destination for Adelaide’s primary health care workforce, where wellbeing, self-care and mental health resources can be accessed, and circles of community established. Read more about this resource via our website’s announcement or register at wellbeingstartswithyou.com.au.
Prepare your device • Ensure you have downloaded and installed any software (if required) • Consider a trial run with a friend - check your internet connection, practice using your webcam, and make sure your audio is working • Charge your phone, computer or mobile device or plug it in during the appointment • Headphones can help with sound quality: if available, have these ready to go
Our ‘Quick Guide to Telehealth’ resource was developed to support patients as telehealth was rapidly rolled out across primary health care. The resource summarises what a patient can expect, providing preparation tips and a useful notes page for use during their telehealth appointment. The resources was designed to complement a suite of providerfocused telehealth resources, also released in recent months, from the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP).
adelaidephn.com.au | enquiry@adelaidephn.com.au | 8219 5900
Access these resources via our online resource library: adelaidephn.com.au/resources or download directly by clicking on the pictures above.
Page | 9
Connect August 2020 | Adelaide PHN in Action
COMMISSIONING MATTERS Highlights from our development and commissioning team headspace Marion Centre Request for Tender Following a competitive tender process Sonder has been selected as the preferred provider to establish a headspace centre at Marion, to service the inner southern suburbs of Adelaide. headspace is an Australian Government initiative that began in 2006 to provide early intervention mental health support and assistance for young people experiencing mild to moderate mental health challenges. The new centre will complement the other existing Adelaide headspace centres located at Edinburgh North, Adelaide, Port Adelaide and Onkaparinga providing assessment and treatment of mental health difficulties in conjunction with any cooccurring physical health, sexual health, alcohol and other drug and vocational needs. headspace has a focus on early intervention, working with young people to provide support at a crucial time in their lives – to help get them back on track and strengthen their ability to manage their mental health in the future. Sonder is currently working with Adelaide PHN, its consortium partners and young people to identify and secure a suitable site. Ideally the centre, which is scheduled to open in January 2021, will be located in close proximity to the Marion Shopping Centre making it easily accessible for young people and their families.
Living Well with Persistent Pain (LWwPP) Program - North Applications for the Living Well with Persistent Pain (LWwPP) Program – North Request for Tender closed on 13 July 2020. The LWwPP Program aims to implement a multi-disciplinary, collaborative primary care-based persistent pain management program in Adelaide, which: • supports individuals to better understand their condition • equips them with the necessary tools to improve their quality of life • minimises the burden of pain on the individuals and the wider community Applications are being assessed with Adelaide PHN expected to soon announce a preferred provider.
Page | 11
Continuity of Support (CoS) Program The Request for Proposal from organisations interested in providing the Continuity of Support (CoS) Program services for the Adelaide PHN region closed in late June 2020. Supports delivered under this program will be predominantly group based, focus on building individual capacity, and provide additional targeted one on one support at times of increased need according to the person’s individual plan. These services, in partnership with families and carers (as appropriate), will provide a range of nonclinical community-based support to these individuals to achieve their recovery goals. The four key aims of the CoS Program are to: • increase personal capacity, confidence and self-reliance • increase social participation • streamline access to appropriate services • provide flexible and responsive support at times of increased need A decision on the outcome of this application process is imminent.
Find out more... Adelaide PHN’s Commissioning Handbook – The Service Providers Guide is available via our website. This handbook is a great resource that not only articulates our expectations but also provides some useful tips to aid the commissioning process for our current and future partners.
As part of our commissioning process we advertise all opportunities using Tenderlink, an online e-Procurement system. Organisations that wish to apply for Adelaide PHN tenders, and receive tender notifications must register on the e-Procurement system. To register, visit tenderlink.com/adelaidephn Organisations already registered are reminded to regularly check and update their contact details, to ensure timely receipt of notifications. Please contact Tenderlink on 1800 233 533 for all registration queries and support.
Connect August 2020 | Adelaide PHN in Action
Leading Health Organisations Urge South Australians to Get Screened Relaunching the Get Screened and Get on with Living Campaign
Photo | Deb Lee, CEO Adelaide PHN; Kim Hosking, CEO Country SA PHN; Lincoln Size, CE Cancer Council SA
Cancer Council SA, in conjunction with Country SA PHN and Adelaide PHN, is urging South Australians to make sure that they are up to date with their bowel, breast and cervical cancer screening tests. Australia is one of the world leaders in cancer screening, with our national cervix, bowel and breast cancer screening programs saving thousands of lives each year. However, concerning national figures show that cancer diagnoses fell by as much as 20 per cent during the COVID-19 pandemic, suggesting fewer people were taking part in the national screening programs. Breast, bowel and cervical cancer screening has now resumed, following some disruptions due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Page | 13
Cancer Council SA Chief Executive Lincoln Size said that he is concerned with the data and is worried that that South Australians are putting off their tests due to fears surrounding the pandemic. “We understand that South Australians might be nervous about getting their screening tests done, particularly those that are done in a hospital or clinic, however putting the tests off are not an option.” “Our fear is that delaying cancer screening tests could impact early detection rates and ultimately, increase the cancer risk in South Australians,” he said. Screening is the best available early detection tool for bowel, breast and cervical cancer. Statistics show that 90 per cent of bowel cancers can be treated effectively if caught early and the mortality rate for breast cancers has decreased by up to 28 per cent due to screening.
The campaign, which was first launched in 2019, encourages South Australians to take part in their regular bowel, breast and cervical screening tests. Supported by a television and radio advert produced by James Rickard, the campaign centres on the peace of mind, joy and relief brought on by receiving the ‘all clear’ after screening for cancer. Unlike many campaigns which focus on the fear and negative feelings associated with putting off a screening test, this campaign focuses on celebrating life and is an invitation to all South Australians: get screened and get on with living, talk to you GP about cervix, breast and bowel screening.
To find out more about the campaign visit cancersa.org.au/get-screened-and-get-onwith-living
Country SA PHN, CEO Kim Hosking and Adelaide PHN CEO, Deb Lee agree that screening is a vital tool and join with Mr Size in promoting the screening message. “Across COVID-19, GPs have continued to provide frontline care for our community, and as restrictions ease and screening services resume, we encourage all South Australians to talk to their GP about cancer screening” said Ms Lee.
CERVICAL screening
screening
2
5
2
A simple test could save your life. Talk to your GP about cancer screening today.
50–74 years old
YEARS
BOWEL
EVERY
YEARS
BREAST
screening
EVERY
25–74 years old
YEARS
To further promote the screening message, Cancer Council SA, Country SA PHN and Adelaide PHN will run their ‘Get Screened and Get on With Living’ campaign which airs on TV from 12 July.
50–74 years old
EVERY
“Country SA PHN is urging all South Australians living in rural and remote communities to keep up their regular health checks including bowel, breast and cervical screening,” said Mr Hosking.
Connect August 2020 | Adelaide PHN in Action
INTRODUCING TWO
ABORIGINAL AND TORRES STRAIT ISLANDER YOUTH PEER WORKERS Adelaide PHN is thrilled to see four brand-new Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Youth Peer Workers start in their role as a part of the ‘enhancing headspace services for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander youth project’. Read on to learn more about the role and two of the new workers recently appointed.
Mahkyah | headspace Adelaide This is a new role for headspace so I’m very excited to be the first. My job will be to engage young Aboriginal people aged 12-25 into our service for support with mental health difficulties. I will be doing individual appointments, co-facilitating groups, going out into the community also engaging with other health services to cover all areas of health. Most importantly, I will be doing all I can to get the best outcome with all the young people I work with. What I am enjoying about the role: I love having the opportunity to help other young nungas who may have similar experiences to me and sharing our stories with each other, also showing them that they can do anything they put their minds to, and I will support and do my all to help them to reach their goals. A fun fact about me: I love gold jewellery. My idea of self-care: My idea of self-care is going home to the Yorke peninsular to Point Pearce, Port Vic and Maitland. Going jetty jumping with all my cousins, fishing with my pupas and uncles also just seeing all of my family. A favourite song: I love RnB/Hip Hop songs old and new! But Conrad Sewell - Healing Hands - I like this song because it reminds me of someone very special to me. My favourite emoji: I use this emoji more than it needs to be used, haha.
Page | 15
Find this project in Adelaide PHN’s online directory here Find centre details via these links: headspace Adelaide | headspace Onkaparinga
Liam | headspace Onkaparinga My role is to provide individual/group support to people who are experiencing social and emotional wellbeing difficulties, as someone who has experienced mental health challenges and recovery. Through my own lived experience, I am able to guide, support, and mentor young people through their own personal experiences. As part of my role, I will also help strengthen the relationships with our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, providing a culturally safe and appropriate service and also assisting to facilitate group programs, community education in schools, and relevant community events. A fun fact about me: I can do a really weird and cool trick where I can freak people out by flipping my eyelids up. I also have six pets at home - three dogs, two cats, and a bearded dragon! My idea of self-care: It is important to engage in things that make you happy and help with stress relief. When life gets a bit full-on and times are stressful, I make sure to do the things that I love most...Skateboarding helps me to be free from my thoughts and is something I can always rely on to help me when life becomes difficult...I love to get creative and either draw or paint and engage in Aboriginal art and paint stories about my family and life journeys....These are just some of the things that help me look after myself during times of struggle. A favourite song: I don’t really have a favourite song or artist, I love music so much and have a great appreciation for all music. I am mainly a huge hip hop/rap lover and I really enjoy listing to the different styles of rap delivered from all over the world. But I love any kind of music that is relatable to me and makes me feel some kind of connection through the lyrics and/or instrumental. Listening to music is also something that I do for self-care, I find music to be very therapeutic. My favourite emoji: My favourite emoji would have to be the smirking face because you can use this in many contexts and portray a different meaning
Connect August 2020 | Adelaide PHN in Action
Priority Care Centres Providing Urgent Care Near You Four Priority Care Centres (PCC) were successfully trialled across metropolitan Adelaide during 2019 to provide an alternative pathway for patients with non-life-threatening injuries and illnesses who would otherwise present to our emergency departments. The pilot feedback from patients was very positive and PCCs have continued into 2020 as a hospital avoidance model of care. The target cohort are lower acuity patients presenting with minor sprains, suspected fractures, sporting injuries, minor cuts, general pain, early pregnancy complications, and urinary tract infections. They are not designed to act as respiratory clinics; these are separately funded through the Commonwealth Government. PCCs are GP-led with additional support from hospital staff trained in acute assessment and care to ensure any person with more complex needs receives the treatment they require, including admission to hospital. These centres also offer a range of services to support care and treatment, including access to: • diagnostic tools such as imaging and pathology • pharmacy services • community based health services for follow-up care
Page | 17
GPs can access PCCs for their patients if they meet PCC eligibility. Referral details for your patients can be found here. Upon discharge, the referring GP will be provided with a letter outlining the care provided and any follow up treatment required and/or if they have a My Health Record account, appropriate information will also be uploaded to their health record. Patients will be instructed to seek follow up care from their regular GP. Feedback from patients who have attended a PCC for urgent care found the experience very positive, both from a systems and service
“ “ “ “ “
Fantastic service couldn’t ask for better. Great fast service.
Staff so caring and attentive. All personnel were lovely professional and caring.
Absolutely best care received. Jo the
nurse was amazing. And mum needed
doctor care. But not quite emergency
“
care. So was amazing halfway option. Very friendly not condescending.
“
Amazing service by doctor and nurse thank you.
With a shift in focus from within hospitals to alternative, but appropriate, community care, PCCs are a part of our continued partnership with SA Health and Wellbeing SA to better integrate health care across primary and acute settings.
Find more information about the PCCs via SA Health’s website here.
Connect August 2020 | Adelaide PHN in Action
Children and Adolescent Mental Health Referrals Highlighting the service and referral support options available via Adelaide PHN and CAMHS
Access to timely and appropriate mental health care – be that prevention, early intervention, or treatment - not only offers immediate benefits to a child or young person but importantly creates a solid foundation for their ongoing development. GPs and other mental health care providers play an important role in connecting children and young people, with the support of their families or caregivers, to appropriate mental health care support and services. Navigating the local mental health system is not simple however, even for experienced providers, and differentiating between pathways of care can be a challenge. The following article, written in collaboration between Adelaide PHN and Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS), aims to highlight the service and referral options available and improve the journey for children and young people across the local mental health care system.
Primary Mental Health Care Services commissioned by Adelaide PHN Adelaide PHN commissions a wide range of primary mental health care services across a stepped care continuum for the Adelaide metropolitan community. Services for children and young people include: Sonder’s Family Wellbeing Program 5-12 years, individual and family based psychological therapy for children and their families living in the north and western regions of Adelaide [program link] Developing Minds 3-12 years, located primarily in the south with sites at Wayville and Aberfoyle Park, parenting groups, small group work, and individual sessions for children and their families [program link]
Four metropolitan headspace Centres Edinburgh North, Adelaide, Port Adelaide and Onkaparinga. Please note: a fifth site to be located in the Marion area is to be established by Jan 2021 [directory link] Integrated Practice Units Associated with the Edinburgh North and Onkaparinga headspace sites, with smaller complex youth support services at the Port Adelaide and Adelaide headspace sites, known locally as ‘Thrive’ and ‘emerge’, a ‘step up’ from headspace services for those needing extra support and care for more complex needs. [directory link] headspace Early Psychosis Program first episode of psychosis or emerging condition. [directory link]
Page | 19
QUICK REFERRAL GUIDE Adelaide PHN’s primary mental health care services • mild to moderate risk • stepped care continuum • referral through the CRU via secure messaging CAMHS • high risk • high acuity • severe impact on functioning • complex systems • psychiatric opinion • primary care has been unsuccessful • referral via phone or fax
Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service Adelaide PHN’s Central Referral Unit (CRU) is available to support referrals across the metropolitan region. The CRU provides a centralised decision making and processing function, supporting providers with information, referral support, clinical triage and allocation. Referrals via the CRU: Secure messaging (ReferralNet or Argus) is the preferred method for CRU referrals: • Name | Central Referral Unit URN | refnet:CRU
Please note, fax referrals are currently being phased out. Information and Enquiries: Providers and community members can call the CRU via the: • Mental Health Enquiry Phone Line: 1300 898 213
CAMHS is a free mental health service offered by the Women’s and Children’s Health Network which provides services for infants, children, and young people up to the age of 16 (and in some regions this extends to the age of 18) with moderate to severe and complex emotional, behavioural or mental health difficulties, across South Australia. If a patient in your care has a moderate to severe and complex emotional, behavioural or mental health difficulty then please have the client call CAMHS on 1300 222 647 during normal business hours. Alternatively, you can send a faxed referral to 8429 6184. In your faxed referral, please give sufficient history and information to inform a triage response. If you are specifically seeking a psychiatry opinion around diagnosis or medication, then please clearly state this in your correspondence.
Connect August 2020 | Adelaide PHN in Action
Page | 21
UPDATE AND CELEBRATIONS
HEALTHPATHWAYS SOUTH AUSTRALIA HealthPathways SA is excited to announce over 200 pathways of care are now available! Since launching in March 2018, the local team have worked closely with SA clinical specialists and health professionals to develop pathways for commonly presenting conditions in primary care.
The team continues to work on localising over 700 clinical and referral pathways to meet priorities and needs across the state. Having a local, GP-led, South Australian based team sees HealthPathways SA as being able to rapidly respond to updates and changes in clinical care.
“Patients can get less than optimal care or get lost in the health system because it is made up of too many conditions, with too much to know, too many pathways of care, and too many confusing treatment and referral options for any one health care provider to be totally across”, says Dr Chris Moy, HealthPathways SA GP Clinical Editor
“ With the ever expanding infodemic, and the fact that medical knowledge is doubling at an unprecedented rate, it is critical for GPs to be able to access evidence based assessment and management guidelines at the point of care in a consistent, rapidly accessible and digestible format ” Dr Helena Williams, HealthPathways SA GP Clinical Editor.
“HealthPathways represents a way to pull all of this together into a single source where a health provider can quickly assess, treat or refer the patient in front of them to the closest and most appropriate local referral option. It brings sense to a very complex health system.”
Working in consultation with relevant subject matter experts from across the state, the HealthPathways SA GP clinical editors apply a general practice lens to develop and publish current, evidence based and easy to read pathways for use during consult. With the clinical team based locally in SA, updates to guidelines or clinical management can be responded to rapidly to support users of HealthPathways SA.
A partnership between SA Health, Adelaide PHN and Country SA PHN, HealthPathways SA is designed to be used at the point of care by GPs, practice nurses and other health care professionals, each clinical pathway goes through a development process led by a team of local GPs. “ Working on the pathways has made me aware of the number of disparate services for medical conditions which GPs in general did not know about and therefore did not refer to. I have learned that HealthPathways has a unique opportunity to transform both public and private health care in South Australia by providing a portal for GPs for referral and management pathways and by enabling links between different services to enhance patient care” Dr Simon Lockwood, HealthPathways SA GP Clinical Editor.
HealthPathways SA acknowledges and thanks all those who have supported the program to date and we look forward to continue working closely with providers and subject matter experts to support consistent care and management of health conditions and to improve the health outcomes and journey of patients through our local health system.
Start exploring HealthPathways SA today: saproject.healthpathwayscommunity.org This article was written by members of the HealthPathways SA team.
Connect August 2020 | Adelaide PHN in Action
INTRODUCING THE
GP PSYCHIATRY SUPPORT LINE
Adelaide PHN have recently contracted Pro Care Mental Health Services to provide a General Practitioner Psychiatry Support Line. This service is designed to help GPs manage the care of mental health consumers. The support line provides direct and timely phone access to a psychiatrist, to seek advice on diagnosis, investigations, medications and safety plans. It is not about triaging or referring consumers to a psychiatrist, but rather keeping consumers whose conditions are able to be treated within primary care under the care of their GP. This service is free, available to all GPs working within metropolitan Adelaide, and
is accessible Monday to Friday 8.30am to 4.30pm. GPs can register online or over the phone by calling 1800 16 17 18. Please note, online registration may take up to 24 hours to process. As part of registration, GPs will be required to provide their AHPRA registration number and practice details.
Find out more about this service via gpsupport.org.au This article was written by an Adelaide PHN team member.
Page | 23
Mother Infant Dialectical Behavioural Therapy A group program for mothers living with borderline personality disorder The mother-infant dialectical behaviour therapy (MI-DBT) is a 25 week group program for mothers who have an infant under three years of age and are living with borderline personality disorder (BPD) and/or significant emotional dysregulation. BPD is present in at least 1-2% of the community and women with this condition can dysregulate postnatally with the multiple stressors of a crying infant, sleep deprivation, a toddler’s needs and potential changing work and family situations. Dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT) is an evidence-based therapy for BPD, and MI-DBT has been adapted to focus on the emotional dysregulation of BPD in parents of infants. DBT focuses on teaching better regulation of emotions along with a focus on interpersonal difficulties. MI-DBT adds in a main focus on parenting and on mother-infant relationships with the aim of setting better pathways in life for the infant. The groups began at Helen Mayo House as clinical research and then expanded to two metropolitan community sites with much appreciated funding from Adelaide PHN and additional support from the Department of Human Services (who provide professional child care at children’s centres while the mothers learn skills in a nearby group room). The groups see excellent attendance rates and the improvements for mothers is exciting with increases in parenting competence and confidence. Whilst the waiting list is much longer than we would like, we still encourage referrals of relevant families so we can potentially offer them a valuable service and also understand the community need in South Australia (there is also a group at Murray Bridge funded through Country SA PHN).
Find this program in Adelaide PHN’s online directory here. For referrals or further information please email either Chris.Yelland@sa.gov.au or Anne. SvedWilliams@sa.gov.au. Adelaide PHN’s Central Referral Unit (CRU) can also support referrals. This article was cowritten by the team members from the MI-DBT program and Adelaide PHN.
Connect August 2020 | Adelaide PHN in Action
Digital Health
Increasing Access to the Electronic Therapeutic Guidelines (eTG)
UPDATES
Adelaide PHN is continuing to offer Electronic Therapeutic Guidelines (eTG) access for general practice and pharmacy within the metropolitan region. eTG complete is recognised as a leading source of accurate, independent and practical treatment advice for a wide range of clinical conditions. It includes explicit instructions for therapy, assisting practitioners in making decisions to ensure their patients receive optimum treatment. Therapeutic Guidelines Limited (TGL) is an independent not-for-profit organisation. Its aim is to promote the quality use of medicines, and it does this through the writing, publication and sale of Therapeutic Guidelines. If you do not currently have access to eTG or are due for a renewed license, consider registering via Adelaide PHN’s website for free access. Once registered, you will be approved by the digital health team and provided with more information regarding its access.
GPs, practice nurses and pharmacists can register for free access here. Find out more about Adelaide PHN’s provision of eTG via our website’s announcement. If you need support with registration are seeking more information, please email: digitalhealthinfo@adelaidephn.com.au.
Page | 25
Electronic Prescribing The Australian Digital Health Agency (ADHA) has fast tracked the introduction of electronic prescribing. Electronic prescribing will be released in two stages, the Token system stage and the Active Script List Registry stage. The Token system stage has been fast tracked and will be continuously rolled out across clinical software. A list of conformant software that are ready for electronic prescribing can be found on the ADHA website. With this system, practice software will give you the option to create an electronic prescription token or to continue your prescription in the old format. The Active Script List Registry is expected to become available later in 2020. It will enable prescriptions to be sent to a registry that can be accessed by pharmacy for dispensing without the patient needing to present a token. Prescribers need to ensure your patients pharmacy can dispense with the Token system before prescribing with this method.
Being Prepared for Electronic Prescribing In order to begin electronic prescribing, your practice needs to: • be registered as a Healthcare Provider Identifier – Organisation (HPI-O) • be connected to the Healthcare Identifiers (HI) service • have an up to date Nash Certificate. • have a Prescription Delivery Service such as eRx or MediSecure.
It is recommended that you subscribe to your software providers correspondence to receive up to date and specific information. If your organisation does not have a HPI-O or you do not have a Provider Digital Access (PRODA) account, setup instructions can be accessed here. How to Check Nash Certificates You can check if your Nash certificate is up to date via the HI service certificates tab in Health Professional Online Services (HPOS). A PRODA account is needed to access HPOS. If you are currently uploading Shared Health Summaries to My Health Record and prescribing with eRX/Medisecure, you are likely to be ready for the electronic prescription software update. Visit the ADHA website for more information, including technical requirements of getting started and specific information for dispensers and prescribers. Alternatively, please get in touch with Adelaide PHN’s digital health team via email: digitalhealthinfo@adelaidephn.com.au
This article was written by an Adelaide PHN digital health officer.
Connect August 2020 | Adelaide PHN in Action
Quality Improvement Guide and Tools A new Adelaide PHN Resource for General Practice Adelaide PHN has developed a Quality Improvement Guide and Tools resource to support general practices. The resource has been developed to assist general practice teams with producing and implementing whole-of-practice quality improvement activities. It breaks down the process, from brainstorming, to assessing readiness to change and determining desired outcomes, through to implementing the activities and assessing their outcomes compared to hypothesised results. Quality improvement (QI) is a system of monitoring and refining processes in order to improve coordination of care and patient health outcomes. Clinical data and knowledge of a specific patient population’s unique needs can be utalised to develop innovative strategies that drive improvement in four key areas:
patient experience 1.
3.
population health
provider experience 2.
4.
sustainable costs
Collectively, these four key areas are known as the ‘Quadruple Aim’ and are each impacted upon by QI activities. For these activities to be successful, a whole-of-practice approach is essential. The quality improvement culture amongst the general practice team needs to be examined and workplace team health checks performed. This provides an opportunity for all employed in a general practice (GPs, nurses, reception staff etc) to come together with a shared mission to improve service delivery. The QI Guide and Tools will assist general practices on their journey towards becoming high performing medical homes.
To obtain a copy of the resource, please contact your friendly practice facilitator or send an email to the practice support team via practicesupport@adelaidephn.com.au
Page | 27
Keep physical distancing and BE COVIDSAFE Physical distancing is working to help keep us all COVIDSafe. Remember, whenever you go out, stay 1.5 metres apart and avoid physical greetings. Follow guidelines in shops and businesses and always practise good hygiene. This will help stop the spread of coronavirus.
Together, let’s BE COVIDSAFE. Visit health.gov.au for more information.
1.5M
Connect August 2020 | Adelaide PHN in Action
Walk a Mile in my Boots Challenge National Homelessness Week 2020 On Friday 7 August, Adelaide PHN participated in the ‘Walk a Mile in My Boots’ challenge as part of National Homelessness Week. Our team took to the streets to raise funds for the 6,000 people experiencing homelessness in South Australia. Collectively, Adelaide PHN managed to raise over $600, exceeding our fundraising goal of $300! All funds have gone to support the Hutt St Centre, a local Adelaide service that has been supporting people ‘doing it tough’ for more than 65 years, providing hearty meals and hot showers in a safe, welcoming space. Each year Hutt St Centre serves up to 40,000 meals and offers social work and support services to nearly 2,000 people. People experiencing homelessness are some of the most marginalised in our community, and the relationships between mental health and homelessness is complex and two-way. With a mission to respond to health needs of the most vulnerable in our community,
Adelaide PHN is working to improve access to appropriate primary mental health services for those experiencing homelessness. We commission the Brian Burdekin Clinic to provide mental health therapies and care coordination for those experiencing (or at risk of) homelessness across Adelaide. Whilst the 2020 National Homelessness Week has now passed, it’s still a great time to learn more. We encourage readers to find out more about... • homelessness in general via Mission Australia’s website • the work being done by to end street homelessness here in Adelaide via Don Dunstan Foundation’s Zero Project
Find out more about the Brian Burdekin Clinic via Adelaide PHN’s online directory. This article was written by an Adelaide PHN team member.
Page | 29
Redesigning our Membership Model Adelaide PHN has undertaken a review of our membership model after five years of service delivery. The purpose of the review was to ensure our membership model was efficient, effective and responsive to the needs of both Adelaide PHN and our members. The review commenced in October 2019. The findings and proposed changes were tabled for discussion with Clinical Councils, Community Advisory Councils, and the Network Leadership Group between November 2019 and May 2020. The proposed changes received unanimous endorsement from Adelaide PHN’s membership and Board. Effective from October 2020, the following structural changes will take effect: • the three regional Clinical Councils (CCs) and three regional Community Advisory Councils (CACs) will merge to form, one Clinical Council and one Community Advisory Council • each council will have 15 members, with five representatives from each region There will be no changes to our existing Aboriginal Community Advisory Council. Over recent months, the Network Leadership Group (NLG) assumed the role of the Health Priority Network (HPN). At the end of July 2020, the NLG’s ‘Terms of Reference’ was updated to reflect this change and formalise integration into the new model. On behalf of the Adelaide PHN Board, management and staff we would like to thank HPN members for their contribution to our membership over these past years.
Adelaide PHN’s New Membership Model
Connect August 2020 | Adelaide PHN in Action
Adelaide Integrated Respiratory Response (AIRR) Project A patient-centred model of care for people with asthma and COPD
The Adelaide Integrated Respiratory Response project (AIRR), funded by Adelaide PHN and delivered by Asthma Australia, is an initiative focused on improving patient health outcomes and ultimately reducing hospitalisations and readmissions for asthma and COPD patients. Asthma Australia works with people with asthma, their family and friends, health professionals, researchers and governments. We find the best treatments and practices to make sure life with asthma is the best it can be. The AIRR project aims to develop an integrated model of care for people with respiratory conditions that is patient-centred by: • building the capacity of general practice and pharmacies to deliver evidence-based, person-centred respiratory primary health care • supporting people with respiratory conditions to better participate in their own health care and the health care system • developing and implementing pathways to reduce potentially preventable hospitalisations and readmissions of people with respiratory conditions • facilitating and increasing collaboration and integration between general practices, pharmacies and other relevant organisations, including Local Health Networks (LHN) Emergency and Outpatient Departments To achieve this, general practices will be provided with a comprehensive training package which includes new accredited online resources, free spirometry training for GPs and nurses, practice support such as maximising MBS items and access to the latest asthma resources to deliver best practice care. Lung Foundation Australia will also support the project with COPD resources.
Page | 31
Pharmacies will have access to online training, device technique training and access to a range of asthma and COPD resources. A small group of patients from each practice will be recruited to the AIRR project and will be upskilled in chronic disease self-management. The project plans to bring patients, general practice staff and the associated pharmacy staff together in Breathe Better Care Groups (BBCGs) to learn how to work together to maximise asthma and COPD outcomes and meet patient goals. BBCGs are also intended to identify quality improvement initiatives around respiratory health for each practice, which will be showcased in an event after 12 months. 16 general practices and a key pharmacy associated with each practice will be offered a place in the AIRR project. Practices can take part from across the Adelaide region with current GP participants located in Adelaide’s south and the city. A culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) component of the project will take place in northern suburbs practices in collaboration with the Adelaide PHN’s Adelaide Refugee
and New Arrivals Project (ARANAP). The AIRR Project Team will work with the Australian Refugee Association (ARA) and Survivors of Torture and Trauma Assistance Rehabilitation Service (STTARS) to ensure an inclusive community approach is undertaken. Patient experiences are key to the success of AIRR and patient insights will be shared with the all general practice and pharmacy staff enabling them to continue to be patient focused and driven.
If you are a general practice or a community pharmacy and are interested in becoming part of this exciting project, Asthma Australia would love to hear from you. Contact Asthma Australia at airr@ asthma.org.au or phone 08 8238 9339. For more information visit Asthma Australia’s website: asthma.org.au/airrproject. Find this program in Adelaide PHN’s online directory. This article was written by team members from Asthma Australia.
Connect August 2020 | Adelaide PHN in Action
Care Connections Adelaide PHN is excited to launch phase two of our Care Connections project. The Care Connections ‘Good Health – Good Life’ project aims to assist communitydwelling older people (60 years and older) to stay well and out of hospital through primary care improvement and integration. Primary health care providers are well placed to support community-dwelling older people and along with a group of commissioned service providers, Adelaide PHN is excited to support six practices across the metropolitan region to undertake a wide variety of activities to better support people over the age of 60. These activities include: • risk stratification of older populations attending participating practices • supporting eligible patients through digital innovations such as the Inca Integrated Care Platform (Inca), My Health Record and Secure Messaging • reviewing and refining internal practice processes to support health assessments and care planning • reviewing, refining and improving practice processes and systems around quality use of medicines with support from Adelaide PHN’s Quality Use of Medicines project • providing opportunities to participate professional development opportunities related to the project • supporting participation in a facilitated Communities of Practice (CoP) group with an emphasis on each practice’s medical neighbourhood Non-clinical providers such as community centres, and other local government services, faith-based organisations, schools, employers, and other care providing organisations will be encouraged to engage in the project.
According to the Primary Care Collaborative, a successful medical neighbourhood ‘focuses on meeting the needs of the individual patient, but also incorporate aspects of population health and overall community health needs’ The project will run over 12 months and is expected to commence late in 2020.
For further information contact enquiry@ adelaidephn.com.au This article was written by team members at Adelaide PHN.
A SUCCESSFUL MEDICAL NEIGHBOURHOOD
focuses on meeting the needs of the individual patient, but also incorporate aspects of population health and overall community health needs’ - the Primary Care Collaborative -
Page | 33
ADELAIDE PRIMARY CARE IN ACTION Highlights of programs and activities affecting the delivery and experience of primary health care across the Adelaide metropolitan region
A NEW RELIABLE RESOURCE DRUG INFORMATION DIRECTORY Are you looking for reliable information regarding alcohol and/or other drugs (AOD) for yourself, someone you care for or a patient? Not sure where to start? The Alcohol and Drug Foundation (ADF) support a Drug Information Directory (DID) - a searchable directory for research and information on AOD. The directory includes a collection of websites formally reviewed and rated out of five stars by the ADF. Search the directory to find ratings, reviews and summaries of websites related to drugs and alcohol, mental health and health promotion. DID is particularly useful for stakeholders who operate in the AOD, health promotion, social work and research space. adf.org.au/directory
ADELAIDE PRIMARY CARE IN ACTION
Highlights of programs and activities affecting the delivery and experience of primary care in Adelaide.
EXPERT ADVICE MATTERS TURN TO YOUR GP FOR CARE The Expert Advice Matters public advertising campaign encourages the community not to delay getting their health concern checked. Patients need reassurance that GPs are still available to give advice on all health matters, safely and easily, and their GP is the best support to turn to. This campaign is a reminder: • they can still talk to their usual GP about all of their health concerns (including those unrelated to COVID-19) • phone and video (telehealth) appointments are available to everyone • in-person appointments are still available and can be attended safely • if they do not have a regular GP to consult, they can find one through Health Direct • information is available for culturally and linguistically diverse communities. The digital campaign features adverts and information aimed at culturally and linguistically diverse communities. People who speak Mandarin, Cantonese, Vietnamese, Hindi and Arabic will find information on the website expertadvicematters.com.au in their language. We’re inviting our diverse GP community to record messages for their community in any language they speak for our social media campaign. GPs can get involved by promoting the campaign on their own practice website and social media channels. Learn more about this initiative and the new downloadable assets on the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) website. Help us spread the word about continuing to access care from your GP.
Find more about this campaign via RACGP or visit expertadvicematters.com.au This article was provided by the RACGP for publication.
Page | 35
Pregnant?
STOP THE FLU BEFORE IT STOPS YOU
ASK ABOUT YOUR FREE FLU SHOT TODAY Pregnant women are more vulnerable to flu-related complications. Protect yourself and your baby by getting immunised now. To find out more visit sahealth.sa.gov.au/flu
ADELAIDE PRIMARY CARE IN ACTION
Highlights of programs and activities affecting the delivery and experience of primary care in Adelaide.
PERINATAL ANXIETY AND DEPRESSION WEEK 8-14 NOVEMBER The theme of this year’s PANDA Week is ‘tell someone who cares’. This year, more than ever it’s vital that expecting and new parents who are struggling know they’re not alone and can reach out for help. Just as importantly, for parents to know that when they do reach out, they will be supported by those they confide in, whether family members, health professionals, PANDA or other perinatal mental health specialists. What will we be working together to achieve this PANDA Week? • to enable people who face unique challenges in becoming parents to access the support they need for their mental wellbeing, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander parents, culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) parents, and parents in low socio-economic communities and rural and remote communities • to highlight the fact that not all expecting and new parents who need support are able to access it, and working together toward a solution • to provide the tools expecting and new parents need in order to successfully find support for their mental wellbeing • to provide health professionals with information and language that will allow them to support the mental health of their clients just as much as they do their physical health
How can you get involved? You can help by sharing our information and stories with your networks, and helping us build a groundswell of support for making things better for vulnerable expecting and new parents across Australia, would greatly support the work we are doing at PANDA. Another fantastic way to get involved is to host a fundraising event. If that is something you’d like to do you can submit an expression of interest here.
Find out more about PANDA Week and how you can get involved via the PANDA website. This article is provided by PANDA for publication.
Page | 37
HELP TURN PSYCHOSIS AROUND Did you know that 85% of young people experiencing psychosis for the first time can make a good recovery if treated early? Identifying the signs is key, and the earlier a person is diagnosed and provided with the right support, the sooner they can manage their illness and start living the life they choose. Psychosis is an experience where a person has problems interpreting the world around them. They might see or hear things that other people can’t or have unusual ideas or beliefs. Psychosis is often frightening for the person experiencing it and often misunderstood by those around them. But it can be treated. Evidence suggests the best treatment is holistic in nature. So, the headspace Early Psychosis program supports young people in every aspect of their recovery, including best practice treatment, education and employment support and managing relationships. Adelaide PHN commissions a headspace Early Psychosis program within the Adelaide region, the program is available through the headspace Adelaide centre and is delivered by Sonder. It can be hard ‘in the moment’ to know what do, a first step can be to learn more about how to recognise early psychosis signs and symptoms. Find out more or take your first step towards care at: headspace.org.au/earlypsychosis. Young people can access hYEPP services directly by calling or visiting the Adelaide centre.
For referrers, a handy early psychosis referral checklist is available and Sonder provide a online referral form via their website. Whilst a GP Mental Health Treatment Plan is not required, it can be helpful - these plans can be sent via Adelaide PHN’s Central Referral Unit or attached to the online referral form.
Find out more or take your first step towards care at: headspace.org.au/ earlypsychosis. Find this program in Adelaide PHN’s online directory here. This article is based on content provided by headspace early psychosis program.
ADELAIDE PRIMARY CARE IN ACTION
Highlights of programs and activities affecting the delivery and experience of primary care in Adelaide.
HELPING CELEBRATE AND CONNECT OLDER LGBTI PEOPLE COTA SA’s (Council on the Ageing SA) Rainbow Hub works with ECH LGBTI Social Connect and Catalyst Foundation to ensure the needs of South Australia’s estimated 60,000 Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Intersex (LGBTI) people aged 50+ are met. We celebrate the lives and contributions of older LGBTI people who have lived through times when they experienced discrimination, stigma, criminalisation, rejection from family and social isolation.
We are seeking the support of health professionals to promote our programs and refer people who may benefit from more support. During COVID-19 we have continued to foster opportunities for people to stay connected to their communities through social programs and regular communication. This helps address the impact of isolation and mental health issues many older LGBTI people face particularly for those with few family connections. They also need to have opportunities to be open about their sexuality or gender with providers when accessing services. For example, medical issues experienced by transgender and intersex people that are often not well understood.
To this end, COTA SA assists people in navigating aged care services for themselves or their loved ones and provides Silver Rainbow aged care awareness training by qualified trainers with lived LGBTI experience. We also host a monthly Rainbow Hub lunch and other events. Our advocacy work ensures older LGBTI voices help shape decision-making by government and industry. Last year COTA SA and ECH formed a partnership to facilitate finding a friend for all older LGBTI people in need of one by matching them with volunteer visitors from the LGBTI community. ECH is proud to be the first South Australian aged care provider to receive Rainbow Tick accreditation. ECH provides a specialist LGBTI service for same-sex attracted and gender diverse people aged 55 years and over, called LGBTI Connect. LGBTI Connect is a peer-to-peer service designed and run by older people from the LGBTI community for older people from the LGBTI community. LGBTI Connect provides a range of services, including help and advice on how to navigate the aged care system, a home visiting program in collaboration with COTA SA, and a monthly social program. The LGBTI Connect Team also run training sessions for all ECH staff training, attend community events and host regular information sessions across Adelaide.
Page | 39
Catalyst Foundation runs four monthly social activities for LGBTI+ community group members over the age of 50: a book group, film group, a social dinner, and a coffee catch-up. Additionally, Catalyst has a ‘Digital Device’ loan program, offering community members the opportunity to borrow a tablet with internet access for free. Catalyst runs the Rainbow Directory, a website of LGBTI+ services and activities across SA, including health, counselling, and social. Catalyst has also created an LGBTI+ Over 50s Facebook Group for sharing things people are watching, reading, doing, making and listening to. Feel free to join!
Visit: • COTA SA’s Rainbow Hub - for details, resources, volunteering or to subscribe to newsletters • ECH LGBTI Connect – for details and to get in contact for services, social support or for volunteering opportunities • Catalyst Foundation
ADELAIDE PRIMARY CARE IN ACTION
Highlights of programs and activities affecting the delivery and experience of primary care in Adelaide.
SA AMBULANCE SERVICE
LAUNCHING A CLINICAL TELEPHONE ASSESSMENT SA Ambulance Service (SAAS) is strengthening its management of Triple Zero calls, by using experienced paramedics to provide clinical assessment via telephone for low acuity patients. The new SAAS Clinical Telephone Assessment service is scheduled to commence in late June and will initially focus on a defined cohort of non-urgent Triple Zero callers. The management of urgent Triple Zero calls will not change and urgent cases will continue to receive an emergency ambulance response. However, callers with low acuity conditions may be transferred to a team of specialised Paramedic Telehealth Clinicians who will conduct a detailed clinical assessment and recommend the most appropriate care for that caller. That care could include: • ambulance transport to hospital – either urgent or non-urgent • referral to the patient’s GP, GP Locum Service or another primary health service • referral or ambulance transport to a Priority Care Centre • home based care • to enable people who face unique challenges in becoming parents to access the support they need for their mental
General practitioners are a key referral pathway and Clinical Telephone Assessment is expected to result in more SAAS referrals to the patient’s own GP. Why is this change being made? While SAAS receives hundreds of Triple Zero calls every day, many of them don’t require an emergency response and a hospital emergency department is not always the most appropriate place for low acuity patients. Low acuity patients also wait longer for an ambulance and are most likely to be delayed on hospital ramps. Clinical Telephone Assessment will: • Streamline their access to the most appropriate care • Support the utalisation of nonemergency pathways of care • Leave more ambulances, crews and other emergency resources available for the most urgent patients
For more information on Clinical Telephone Assessment, visit SA Ambulance’s website
Page | 41
DID YOU KNOW YOU CAN BE A GP AT HEADSPACE headspace GPs are a key part of how headspace delivers support to young people across Australia. They play an important role in supporting the mental, physical and sexual health of young people aged 12–25. Having GPs onsite at headspace centres provide a safe, low-stigma entry point for young people who may be reluctant to seek help for mental health concerns. Our GPs work holistically with young people and are part of a multidisciplinary team. headspace is keen to welcome more GPs into its network to help enhance the
There’s a place for you at headspace
headspace.org.au/gps
care provided to young people across Australia. These roles can offer great flexibility, including part-time, face-toface and telehealth opportunities, and the opportunity to make a real difference to young people’s lives.
To find out how you can become a headspace GP, visit headspace.org.au/ gps This article is based on content provided by the headspace team.
ADELAIDE PRIMARY CARE IN ACTION
There’s been a lot to take in lately. Share the load with us.
coronavirus.beyondblue.org.au 1800 512 348
Highlights of programs and activities affecting the delivery and experience of primary care in Adelaide.
Page | 43
#GETTINGTHROUGHTHISTOGETHER Together with mental health organisations, experts and leaders, the National Mental Health Commission (the Commission) has developed #GettingThroughThisTogether – a national conversation sharing practical tips and support for the mental health and wellbeing of all Australians as COVID-19 continues. The campaign promotes 10 tips for #GettingThroughThisTogether, including:
There are also a number of important support lines available to support community members: • Beyond Blue Coronavirus Mental Wellbeing Support Service 1800 512 348 • Lifeline 13 11 44 • headspace 1800 650 890 • Kids Helpline 1800 55 1800 • Free financial counselling, Monday - Friday • National Debt Helpline (9:30am - 4:30pm) 1800 007 007 • Small Business Help (9:00am - 5:00pm) 1800 413 828 • National Alcohol and Other Drugs Hotline 1800 250 015 • 1800 RESPECT 1800 737 732 We will all need a little extra support during this time, so let’s be kind, stay connected, check in with each other, and seek professional support when we need it.
Find out more about the tips at: mentalhealthcommission.gov.au/ GettingThroughThisTogether Get involved in sharing the campaign by accessing the campaign materials here. This article is based on content provided by the Commission for promotion.
ADELAIDE PRIMARY CARE IN ACTION
Highlights of programs and activities affecting the delivery and experience of primary care in Adelaide.
GET A SEXUAL HEALTH CHECK. ASK YOUR DOCTOR.
Page | 45
LIVED EXPERIENCE AWARDS 2020 nominations now open The Lived Experience Awards are back! This year, the awards are presented by the Mental Health Coalition of SA (MHCSA) Lived Experience Workforce Program. The Lived Experience Awards aim to: • recognise and celebrate the outstanding achievements of people in designated lived experience roles • recognise and celebrate the achievements of organisations which have not only embraced the Lived Experience Workforce but demonstrate commitment to growing it Do you know a lived experience worker who deserves a 2020 Lived Experience Award? Or an organisation who should be recognised? Please note: These awards are only open to organisations who are members of the MHCSA. Individuals may apply if you work within a member organisation in a paid, designated lived experience role.
Find out more or download the application form via MHCSA.org.au
Entries are now open and close 5:00pm Monday 14 September, 2020.
This article is based on content sent from MHCSA for publication.
Mental Health Week is an annual, national event that aims to improve community awareness and interest in mental health and wellbeing 10–17 October 2020
ADELAIDE PRIMARY CARE IN ACTION
Highlights of programs and activities affecting the delivery and experience of primary care in Adelaide.
IT’S NOT TOO LATE TO JOIN THE AGPT PROGRAM IN 2021 The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) is opening applications for the final intake into the AGPT Program at the end of August. Placements are available on both the general and rural pathways, with unique opportunities for doctors to start their general practice careers next year across regional, rural and remote Australia. There will be two commencement periods next year (January/February and July/August) to account for any delays applicants might face in obtaining their general medical registration due to COVID-19. To get a head start, you can fill out an expression of interest form on the RACGP website so that you can be supported throughout the application process with: • reminders of important dates • informative live webinars discussing different aspects of the application and selection process • downloadable guides • entry exam preparation. Take the next step towards your career of endless possibilities and start the new year with the AGPT Program. Applications open: 10.00 am AEST, Monday 31 August 2020 Applications close: 10.00 am AEST, Monday 21 September 2020
Find out more: www.racgp.org.au/agpt This article was provided by The RACGP for publication.
Expressions of interest are now open for AGPT 2021 second intake
Page | 47
GP20 CALL FOR ABSTRACTS NOW OPEN The RACGP’s annual conference, 16-28 November, will be fully digital in 2020. GPs are being called to submit their research abstracts for consideration the GP20 team is seeking innovative and highly engaging submissions on topics that are relevant to GPs in their everyday settings. Presenters will be supported to deliver sessions in one the following styles: 15-minute presentations, threeminute lightening talks, or ePoster presentations.
Find out more at: GP20.com.au This article summarises content provided by the RACGP for publication.
Bringing Australia’s Major Scientific Conference for Occupational Therapists to Cairns
23-25 JUNE 2021
www.otaus2021.com.au
CAIRNS CONVENTION CENTRE QUEENSLAND
#otaus2021
29TH NATIONAL CONFERENCE AND EXHIBITION 2021
LAUNCHING OUR
CALL FOR
ADELAIDE PRIMARY CARE IN ACTION
Highlights of programs and activities affecting the delivery and experience of primary care in Adelaide.
TYPE 2 DIABETES CAN BE PREVENTED AND REVERSED Dr James Muecke | AM, 2020 Australian of the Year
Naturally occurring dietary fats, such as those found in avocado, nuts, olive oil, eggs, milk, butter and cheese, have never been linked to cardiovascular disease, and low fat/low calorie diets have proven to be universally unsuccessful – lowering your caloric intake simply lowers your metabolism. What’s surprisingly little known, is that minimising your ingestion of sugar, refined carbohydrates, and highly processed products containing these substances, can prevent fatty liver, insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes. It’s proven and powerful. Once a person has been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, it can be managed successfully in many people without medications or surgery. There’s good evidence that dietary modification and regular periods of shortterm fasting can help – reducing your intake of sugar reverses fatty liver, hyperglycaemia and hyperinsulinemia. Intermittent fasting triggers hormonal changes, such as a sharp drop in insulin level, that don’t occur with a simple reduction in dietary calories and which are key to weight loss and reversal of type 2 diabetes. There are several approaches to giving up sugar and for fasting, with plenty of books, social media platforms and apps to help, however if a patient is on any medication for type 2 diabetes, fasting should only be undertaken with guidance from a treating doctor.
This article was supplied by the Australian Day Council and is part of an eight-part blog post series by 2020 Australian of the Year, Dr James Muecke. Find the other posts in this series at australiadaysa.com.au Dr James Muecke, AM is an ophthalmologist working in Adelaide, South Australia and a blindness prevention pioneer.
Page | 49
CELEBRATING THE LIFE OF DR HARRY NESPOLON Late in July, the general practice community were saddened by the news of the death of Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) President Dr Harry Nespolon on Sunday 26 July 2020. In a message to stakeholders and members, RACGP Board reflected: Dr Nespolon was a fierce advocate for preserving the central role of general practice in the Australian health care system. Dr Nespolon was elected RACGP President in July 2018 on the strength of a long career successfully supporting membership-based organisations. During his tenure as RACGP President, Dr Nespolon delivered on his promise to effect genuine change in general practice. He will be remembered in particular for his extraordinary leadership through the COVID-19 pandemic. He was fundamental in the college’s successful efforts in securing $500m to general practice fight coronavirus, helping to expand telehealth for all patients and bring about the most far-reaching change for general practice in a generation. Dr Nespolon was a giant of general practice. We have lost a great friend, advocate and mentor, who worked tirelessly to advocate on behalf of the profession of general practice and Australia’s 41,000 GPs.
Photo | Dr Harry Nespolon Professor Michael Kidd, AM, reflected in a recent GP Update regarding COVID-19: Harry demonstrated extraordinary leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic, as a strong and effective advocate on behalf of our nation’s general practitioners to ensure. the continuation of high quality medical care to the people of Australia throughout the pandemic. Harry also established one of our GPled respiratory clinics at his Dee Why Practice to support the fight against COVID-19. His outstanding contribution will be greatly missed. My condolences to his family and loved ones. Vale Dr Harry Nespolon.
Read more about Dr Harry Nespolon’s achievements via RACGP’s News GP Blog here.
ADELAIDE PRIMARY CARE IN ACTION
Highlights of programs and activities affecting the delivery and experience of primary care in Adelaide.
PROVIDING PSYCHOSOCIAL CARE FOR OLDER PEOPLE New evidence-based guidance available Older people with advanced and lifelimiting conditions face many challenges and may experience an array of psychosocial issues. When these issues are not identified and addressed, they can have a profound impact on a person’s mental health and wellbeing, as well as on their family, friends, and carers. These issues can also affect the services that aged care and athome palliative care organisations need to provide. To help address this, palliAGED has developed new evidence-based and practical resources to support Australia’s aged care workforce in providing psychosocial care.
These include the Psychosocial Care Practice page which lists evidence-based tools, links, and other information to guide aged care staff. The Evidence Summary page provides a concise synopsis of findings of systematic reviews on psychosocial care. The Evidence Synthesis page includes an in-depth discussion of the latest evidence and research on screening and assessment, interventions and management, psychological care for the marginalised, bereavement, and psychosocial support of aged care staff.
This article was provided by the team at palliAGED for publication.
Page | 51
Support our SA nurses Our nurses have supported you. Now it’s time for you to support them. Support our nurses by joining the Go the distance Challenge today. WHAT Walk, run, ride, scoot or skate 10,000 steps or 8kms. WHEN Monday 24 August to Sunday 06 September WHEN To find out more or register visit: go-the-distance.raisely.com Every dollar you raise will go towards supporting Nursing Scholarships, dedicated to improving patient experiences across hospitals including: Royal Adelaide Hospital, The Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Hampstead Rehabilitation Hospital, St Margaret’s Hospital and Glenside Health Service.
Connect August 2020 | Adelaide PHN in Action
Connect with us adelaidephn.com.au enquiry@adelaiephn.com.au 8219 5900 Exploring adelaidephn.com.au Find out more about Adelaide PHN’s programs and services via our online directory. Providers can find a calendar of local professional development opportunities and a resource library to support delivery of primary health care across the metropolitan region. Adelaide PHN’s career page includes listings of vacancies within general practice across the Adelaide region (a service offered for free to general practice teams).
Adelaide PHN distributes Connect to provide beneficial and relevant information. The content is sourced from credible organisations, but please note we do not undertake extensive quality reviews. While the Australian Government helped fund this document, it has not reviewed the content and is not responsible for any injury, loss or damage however arising from the use of or reliance on the information provided herein.