CONNECT FEBRUARY 2021
adelaidephn.com.au | enquiry@adelaidephn.com.au | 8219 5900
10
CONTENTS
15
13
CEO Foreword
3
Commissioning Matters
5
Introducing our Report Cards
7
Opening of headspace Marion
10
Supporting the Response to COVID-19
11
An Update on our Commissioned Mental Health Services
13
Digital Health Update • Specialist Toolkit • Electronic Prescribing • Secure Messaging Update • 715 Aboriginal Health Assessment Template • Quick Guide to Telehealth
15
HealthPathways Update
23
Needs Assessment
26
Introducing the Way Back Support Service
27
Primary Care In Action
31
Cover Photo: Port Willunga, Adelaide south
FROM THE CEO
Deb lee
This is our first edition of Connect for 2021, so I should say Happy New Year and I really do hope that you all managed to find some joy and relaxation over the Christmas break. Whilst all things COVID seem to be relatively stable here in SA – it seems we just get to the “okay, perhaps we are on top of this nationally now” and there is another outbreak and more border closures. It appears this will be our reality for some time to come. The national roll out of the COVID-19 vaccinations has now commenced, sooner than anticipated! Adelaide PHN (along with all PHNs nationally) are playing our part supporting the roll-out. You can find the national timeline and roadmap for the vaccinations on our website, along with other useful information and FAQs (as they are updated and released). Please see our COVID-19 provider update webpage for more information. It is important to remember that the roll-out of vaccinations will be driven by the supply and delivery of the vaccinations, so this will be a staggered (or staged) roll-out across Australia. It is critical to vaccinate our most vulnerable first and to bring on other groups as quickly as we can. We are extremely fortunate that our roll out of vaccinations is not for emergency purposes (as in the UK and the USA) – which means we can ensure we have a more coordinated and phased approach, learning from the lessons of other countries and indeed the experiences in other states. We know that we won’t all be receiving the opportunity for vaccination at the same time so we may well have to reassure our patients/clients that vaccinations will be provided to all Australians and that the logistics of supply, delivery and cold chain storage are very complex. Mass vaccination clinics are certainly still under consideration but at this stage we can only roll out what we have in supply – which means the supply will be staggered.
Adelaide PHN is actively supporting the roll out of vaccinations – firstly in our Residential Aged Care Facilities, closely followed by phased general practices, GP Respiratory Clinics and then all of general practice (who would like to be able to provide vaccinations). If you have any questions – we are more than happy to provide (or find) the answers. You can call our COVID line on 8314 3698 or email covid19@adelaidephn.com.au. Whilst it is easy to think (or feel) that all things COVID overtake our daily lives and tasks, we all know the reality is that life and all other things must also continue! As always, you will find lots of information in this edition and I encourage you to read up on all the work that continues to be done. You will find our “Report Cards” featured – our way of sharing with you the impact our work is having on our communities, how we are achieving against the National Performance and Quality Framework and the outcomes of our activities. Enjoy our weather, keep healthy and safe! Best wishes, Deb Lee, Adelaide PHN CEO
Connect February 2021 | Adelaide PHN in Action
Connect August 2020 | Adelaide PHN in Action
Commissioning Matters Highlights from our Development and Commissioning Team Adelaide PHN receives funding from the Australian Government Department of Health to commission services which meet the health needs of the Adelaide metropolitan community. Below is a summary of our recent commissioning activities, written by a member of Adelaide PHN’s Development and Commissioning Team.
REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL UPDATE ALCOHOL AND OTHER DRUGS (AOD) TREATMENT SERVICES PROGRAM 2021-2023
Adelaide PHN is currently assessing applications from organisations to deliver AOD treatment services within the Adelaide metropolitan region during 2021 - 2023. Updates will be provided via the Adelaide PHN website. Adelaide PHN’s AOD Treatment Services Program aims to deliver a range of high quality, person centred AOD treatment interventions to priority populations in the metropolitan area.
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.
Adelaide PHN advertises all commissioning opportunities via 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 your contact details to ensure timely receipt of notifications.
Page | 6
Page | 7
Connect August 2020 | Adelaide PHN in Action
Introducing Our Report Cards In line with our Strategic Plan and Framework, Adelaide PHN has recently developed a suite of report cards to demonstrate our impact over the last financial year in each of our national priority areas. These report cards represent an easy to read pictorial overview of activities and achievements against our National Key Performance Indicators. Information contained within the report cards have been drawn from a range of sources, including Adelaide PHN commissioned activities and services, and state and national data. There are six report cards in total, covering: Aboriginal health General practice and digital health Health workforce Population health Mental health and alcohol and other drugs Aged care It is anticipated that these report cards will be updated annually to provide a richer understanding of how Adelaide PHN activities in our priority areas contribute to achieving our vision of a healthier Adelaide by 2030. To download a copy of our report cards and Strategic Plan and Framework, please visit adelaidephn.com.au/reportcards.
This article was written by an Adelaide PHN Integration and Design Officer.
Page | 8
Page | 9
Connect February 2021 | Adelaide PHN in Action
Connect August 2020 | Adelaide PHN in Action
PHOTOS: headspace Marion team members on opening day
Page | 10
Page | 11
New headspace centre opens in Marion headspace Marion opened its doors on 1 February 2021, at 233 Sturt Rd, Marion, diagonally opposite from Westfield Marion Shopping Centre – enabling easier access to mental health services for young people in the inner southern suburbs of Adelaide. headspace centres across Australia provide tailored, early intervention mental health support and assistance for young people aged 12-25 experiencing mild to moderate difficulties with their mental health. At the centre, young people will be able to access support from youth friendly health professionals in a safe, confidential and friendly environment. This includes mental health professionals, general practitioners, alcohol and other drug professionals, and vocational specialists. The new centre has been established and will be operated by Sonder, and joins four headspace centres in the metropolitan region – Adelaide, Port Adelaide, Edinburgh North and Onkaparinga. This additional centre will help cater for increased demand for mental health services in Adelaide as young people continue to manage the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. Services are available from 9.00am to 5.00pm, Monday to Friday. For more information, visit headspace.org.au/marion or call (08) 8490 7700. headspace centres across the Adelaide metropolitan region are supported by funding from the Adelaide PHN through the Australian Government’s PHN program.
GP Mental Health Treatment Plan referrals can be made via Adelaide PHN’s Central Referral Unit (CRU) using Secure Messaging via ReferralNet or Argus. Details below. Name: Central Referral Unit ID: CRU
This article was written by an Adelaide PHN Capacity Building Coordinator.
Connect February | Adelaide PHN Action Connect August 20202021 | Adelaide PHN in in Action
Supporting the Response to COVID-19 Continuing to play a key role in the South Australian response to the pandemic Adelaide PHN continues to be an active partner in the SA Health COVID-19 Command 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). 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 Command 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 April 2020, 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 increase 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. Across the pandemic, we have also 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 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.
Page | 12
Page | 13
The Australian Government has also recently commenced the COVID-19 vaccine roll-out across Australia, with residents of residential aged care facilities (RACFs) being among the first who can choose to receive the vaccine. Adelaide PHN will be actively supporting the roll-out of these vaccinations - firstly in the RACFs across our region, closely followed by phased general practices, GP Respiratory Clinics and then all of general practice (who would like to be able to provide vaccinations). Adelaide PHN will ensure to keep our providers updated as new information becomes available via our ‘To The Point’ bulletin. You can sign up to these updates by emailing covid19@adelaidephn.com.au. For more information about how we’re supporting the local response and vaccine roll-out, including access to updated resources and relevant links, please visit adelaidephn.com.au/covid-19-provider-update. If you require any support or have any questions, please contact Adelaide PHN’s COVID-19 line on 8314 3698 or email covid19@adelaidephn.com.au.
This article was written by a member of Adelaide PHN’s COVID-19 Response Team.
Connect August 2020 | Adelaide PHN Connect February 2021 | Adelaide PHNininAction Action
AN UPDATE ON OUR COMMISSIONED
Mental Health Services Adelaide PHN would like to ensure that our stakeholders are aware of the existing mental health service provision available, and how this has been adapted in light of the current pandemic.
The following commissioned mental health support and services are still available: During the COVID-19 pandemic, mental health services continue to be available through Adelaide PHN commissioned service providers. Face to face services remain available where necessary and appropriate. Where this is occurring, services are keeping those delivering and accessing services safe by adhering to hygiene practices and social distancing. Where face to face is not a requirement, individual psychological therapy has moved mainly to telehealth platforms; mostly phone-based therapy with some videoconferencing options.
Lived Experience Telephone Support Service (LETSS) All services that are phone-based support services are continuing as normal. The Lived Experience Telephone Support Service (LETSS) may be useful for people during this time and continues to operate daily from 5.00PM to 11.30PM. This service can be accessed by anyone seeking support for themselves or loved ones and callers can access brief counselling interventions as well as support with engaging available services. Phone: 1800 013 755 or webchat via letss.org.au.
Page | 14
Page | 15
After-Hours Walk in Service Walk in clinics remain available, including: Sonder’s Walk In After Hours Service in Edinburgh North. This service operates afterhours on Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Monday from 5.00PM to 10.00PM. More information about this service can be found via Sonder’s website. Links to Wellbeing’s Walk In After Hours service in Noarlunga. This service operates afterhours on Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Monday from 5.00pm - 11.00pm. More information about this service can be found via Links to Wellbeing’s website. Both services are available to anyone who feels they need to talk to someone about their mental health. No appointment necessary. More information can be found via Adelaide PHN’s Directory of Services webpage.
Please see our Mental Health Directory on the Adelaide PHN webpage for full details of all commissioned mental health services.
This article was written by a member of Adelaide PHN.
If you are having difficulty getting a referral, please contact Adelaide PHN’s CRU via the Mental Health Enquiry Line 1300 898 213. Our team of Clinical Triage Officers are ready to assist. As always, referrals can be sent via Secure Messaging (ReferralNet or Argus - name: Central Referral Unit / ID: CRU).
Connect August 2020 | Adelaide PHN in Action
Adelaide PHN’s
Digital Health Update An update from our practice support and digital health team including relevant resources and news relating to quality improvement activities, training and professional development, integrated care, practice incentives and general support. You can get in touch with our teams by emailing Practice support practicesupport@adelaidephn.com.au Digital health digitalhealthinfo@adelaidephn.com.au
Page | 17
Digital Health Specialist Toolkit The Australian Digital Health Agency (ADHA) has co-developed the Digital Health Specialist Toolkit with input and testing from specialists and practice staff, and in support of the Digital Health Specialist Toolkit Steering Group with members representing a number of peak organisations. The toolkit contains interviews, guides, learning modules, demonstration videos and much more on a range of essential digital health systems. CPD-accredited eLearning modules provide an introduction and overview of digital health technologies, electronic prescribing, My Health Record and telehealth, including applications, proven benefits and ethical considerations. If you would like further information and/or support relating to digital health in your specialist practice, please contract our Practice Facilitator, Clayton Brauwers, via cbrauwers@adelaidephn.com.au.
This article was written by an Adelaide PHN Practice Facilitator, based off information provided by the ADHA.
Connect August 2020 | Adelaide PHN in Action
Electronic Prescribing UPDATE
The Australian Digital Health Agency (ADHA) has fast tracked the introduction of Electronic Prescribing, which 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. A pharmacist can then scan the electronics prescriptions QR code to access the dispensing information. The Active Script List Registry is expected to become available in 2021. 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. If your pharmacy is not ready to dispense these prescriptions, contact us via digitalhealthinfo@adelaidephn.com.au for support. Being Prepared for Electronic Prescribing In order to utilise electronic prescriptions, you need to; • Have a Healthcare Provider Identifier – Organisation (HPI-O) • Be connected to the Healthcare Identifiers (HI) Service (via a NASH/Medicare certificate) • Be connected to 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.
Page | 19
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. Adelaide PHN is continuing to support pharmacy and general practice in implementing electronic prescriptions, please contact our digital health team via email at digitalhealthinfo@adelaidephn.com.au.
This article was written by an Adelaide PHN Digital Health Officer based off information provided by the ADHA.
Connect August 2020 | Adelaide PHN in Action
Secure Messaging UPDATE
Adelaide PHN is continuing to support the adoption of Secure Messaging across the Adelaide metropolitan region. The use of post, fax or email to share patient and clinical information is not secure due to the risk of interference. Secure Messaging software supports the point-to-point sharing of encrypted clinical and patient data. In general practice, Secure Messaging allows GPs to securely send referrals and other information about their patient directly from the clinical software, it also imports correspondence back to the GP directly into their clinical inbox. This process not only maintains confidentiality of patient information and prevention of unauthorised interception, but it can also significantly reduce overheads related to printing, faxing, mailing and scanning. To support the safe and secure exchange of clinical information between health care providers and our primary mental health care services Central Referral Unit (CRU), Adelaide PHN will be ceasing fax to the CRU on 30 June 2021. We are encouraging practices using either Argus or ReferralNet to start sending your Mental Health Treatment Plan (MHTP) referrals to the CRU via Secure Messaging. For instructions on how to add the CRU to your address book and send via ReferralNet from your clinical software please refer to the links below: • Instructions for Best Practice • Instructions for Medical Director • Instructions for Zedmed You can also find our MHTP templates in our website’s resource library by selecting/searching ‘mental health’.
Page | 21
To support this transition, Adelaide PHN is offering general practice a free ReferralNet license to be able to send to the CRU. *Please note this license will allow you to send unlimited referrals to the CRU only, however you will still be able to receive messages from any organisation/provider* If your practice needs support adding the CRU to your address book, training for your staff or would like a free ReferralNet license to send to the CRU, then please contact our Digital Health Officer, Bonnie Bretzke at bbretzke@adelaidephn.com.au. Details for the CRU to add to your address book can be found below: Name: Central Referral Unit ID: CRU *Please note if your CIS is Best Practice or Zedmed and you are using Argus to send your referrals through to the CRU, you will need to contact Argus to allow the functionality to send to ReferralNet.
This article was written by an Adelaide PHN Digital Health Officer.
Connect August 2020 | Adelaide PHN in Action
NEW
715 Aboriginal Health Assessment Templates Member organisations of the SAHMRI Wardliparringga Aboriginal Research Unit Chronic Disease Consortium, Adelaide PHN, NALHN and the Aboriginal Health Council of SA, have worked together to implement a best practice, system wide approach to the 715 Aboriginal Health Assessments. Wardliparringga Aboriginal Research Unit - in partnership with the Aboriginal Community Controlled Sector and SA Health Aboriginal health services - developed a Risk Factor Assessment and Screening Tool to understand the specific assessment questions and methods used when performing 715 Aboriginal Health Assessments. This has led to the development of new appropriate templates for completing 715 Aboriginal Health Assessments. Adelaide PHN has developed these templates for various clinical information systems, Best Practice, Zedmed and Medical Director. The templates were trialed in select primary health care practices (which included NALHN sites). After a positive trial, the feedback from practices informed any additional required changes to the templates to be user friendly, consistent and follow best practice guidelines. These templates are now available to access via the resource library on Adelaide PHN’s website and added to the 715 Health Pathway as an additional resource. The next stage will be assisting practices to upload templates if required, and the provision of training on the templates in specific clinical software via webinars. If you have any feedback on these templates or would like digital health support, contact digitalhealthinfo@adelaidephn.com.au.
This article was co-written by an Adelaide PHN Digital Health Officer and Capacity Building Coordinator.
Page | 23
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 Your health care provider may offer a telehealth appointment or you can request one. 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-to-face appointment it’s a good idea to be ready ahead of time for the call.
If you need any follow up care that requires face-to-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 device • Ensure you have downloaded and installed any software (if required)
Prepare your space
• Consider a trial run with a friend - check your internet connection, practice using your webcam, and make sure your audio is working
• Find a quiet, private and comfortable place to sit
• Charge your phone, computer or mobile device or plug it in during the appointment
• Ensure you have everything you need ready such as a glass of water, tissues, pen and paper
• Headphones can help with sound quality: if available, have these ready to go
• Consider a ‘do not disturb’ sign for the door
This content is based on a new patient resource by Adelaide PHN. Find a printable copy here or visit adelaidephn.com.au/resources
Connect February 2021 | AdelaidePHN PHNin in Action Action Connect August 2020 | Adelaide
HealthPathways Update New type 2 diabetes pathway to enhance primary care prevention and engagement The prevalence of type 2 diabetes is growing in South Australia, with an ageing population and increased demand for services, there is a need for enhanced diabetes management in the primary care setting. The first series of a comprehensive suite of type 2 diabetes pathways have been launched on the HealthPathways SA online portal.
The new pathways are based on the best available evidence and have been adapted for the local SA context. Providing a stepby-step guide, the pathways are designed to help primary care professionals navigate screening, stratified interventions and long-term management of patients with or at risk of type 2 diabetes. The pathways include information on:
The following pathways and their associated referral pages are now available: • Screening and Diagnosis of Diabetes • Prediabetes • Newly Diagnosed Type 2 Diabetes Adults • Ongoing Management of Type 2 Diabetes • Diabetes Cycle of Care • Foot Complications in Diabetes • Diabetic Eye Disease Screening
• Assessing risk factors and prevention strategies • Diagnosis and initial assessment • Approaches to education, behaviour change and self-management supports • Care planning, cycles of care, goal setting and shared decision making considerations • Medication management • Focus on integrated multidisciplinary team approaches
Page | 24
Page | 25
The type 2 diabetes pathways have been developed with the expertise and feedback from leading diabetes clinicians in South Australia including Diabetes SA, endocrinologists, ophthalmologists, optometrists, vascular surgeons, podiatrists and diabetes educators. Dr Katrina Couchman GP Clinical Editor, HealthPathways SA
HealthPathways Clinical Coordinators undertook extensive service mapping, resulting in the development of relevant referral pages which will assist GPs to navigate the extensive locally available services across the state. Further diabetes pathways will be released in 2021 including: • Glycaemic Control • Diabetes Dietary Information • Hypoglycaemia • Diabetes Medications • Insulin Therapy in Type 2 Diabetes Access to our new diabetes pathways is limited to health professionals. Click here to access the live site and enter your username and password. You can request access here.
Get involved Health professionals wanting to be involved in HealthPathways SA can do so in a variety of ways: • Review final draft pathways during our online consultation process – click here to find out more • Explore our live pathways and send your thoughts and feedback at any time by clicking on the “Send Feedback” button on the pathway • Request a demonstration in your practice by contacting your Adelaide PHN Practice Facilitator via practicesupport@adelaidephn.com.au or the HealthPathways team For all queries, please contact the HealthPathways South Australia Team via email at enquiries@sahealthpathways.com.au.
This article was written by a HealthPathways Clinical Coordinator.
Connect August 2020 | Adelaide PHN in Action
25–74 years old
CERVICAL screening
YEARS
EVERY
5
A simple test could save your life. Talk to your GP about cancer screening today.
Page | 26
Page | 27
ADELAIDE PHN’S
Needs Assessment Since 2017, Adelaide PHN has completed seven Needs Assessment reports by triangulating health, service and community needs, and input from Adelaide PHN membership groups and community. These reports identify and analyse health and service needs within their regions, and supports core strategic activities such as prioritising, planning, and procuring activities to address those most in need.
In addition, Adelaide PHN undertook a comprehensive analysis, synthesis and priority setting process to review the Alcohol and Other Drugs (AOD) treatment key needs and priorities of the community. The Adelaide PHN will use this information to inform our Activity Work Plan, including commissioning approaches in delivering treatment services in the region.
The Needs Assessment process follows a three-year cycle, with 2020/21 representing the final year in the most recent three-year cycle. Adelaide PHN submitted an updated Needs Assessment report in November 2020.
In 2021-22 Adelaide PHN will begin a new three-year cycle of the Needs Assessment. This process will be guided by a newly developed Adelaide PHN Needs Assessment Framework, which was developed to support and inform the process from 2021 onwards. A completed report will be available later in the year.
In February 2019, the Adelaide PHN membership groups’ recommendation to the Board was endorsed to further investigate the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Intersex and Queer + (LGBTIQ+) communities’ health and wellbeing needs. This report presents some of the health and service needs and priorities of the LGBTIQ+ communities in the Adelaide PHN region, identified from analysis of national and local datasets and research, as well as the findings from consultation with several local LGBTIQ+ service providers.
To read more and to find our updated Needs Assessment and access an updated list of priorities, please visit our website.
This article was written by an Adelaide PHN Integration and Design Officer.
Connect February 2021 | Adelaide PHN in Action
Connect August 2020 | Adelaide PHN in Action
Introducing The Way Back Support Service Providing non-clinical care and support to those following a suicide attempt or suicidal crisis Suicide is a major public health issue. More than 3,000 people die by suicide in Australia each year. A total of 3,318 people took their own lives in Australia in 2019, representing an increase of 6 per cent from the previous year. Over the decade since 2009, the number of deaths by suicide has increased by 33 per cent (Beyond Blue). Furthermore, an average 65,000 people attempt suicide in Australia each year. We know that people who have previously attempted are among the most at risk to take their own life and the three months after an attempt is a particularly vulnerable time (Beyond Blue). To support need in this area, Adelaide PHN is pleased to announce that The Way Back is now operational in Adelaide. Delivered by AnglicareSA, this service has been co-funded by the Commonwealth Government and SA Health through Adelaide PHN and the Office for the Chief Psychiatrist. The implementation of this service forms part of the Adelaide Metropolitan Integrated Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Plan: Towards Wellness. The plan is the Adelaide PHN’s and metropolitan LHN’s commitment to integration and collaboration in the way mental health services are planned and delivered across our region. The Way Back Support Service helps people through this critical risk period. It’s an innovative suicide prevention service designed by Beyond Blue to provide non-clinical one-on-one care after a suicide attempt or suicidal crisis. How does it work? A support coordinator contacts an individual within one working day of receiving their referral from a hospital or community mental health service and supports them through the next three months by engaging them with services that address some of the issues leading to their distress.
Page | 28
Page | 29
This can mean anything from financial advice to connecting them with community groups or helping them attend healthcare appointments. The service is personalised and specifically tailored to each individual’s needs, focusing on reconnecting people with the community and their existing support networks because these personal relationships help keep them motivated to stay connected and alive. In Adelaide, the service accepts referrals from the RAH and QEH Emergency Departments, with support coordinators providing an outreach service to an individual’s home or preferred place of contact. The Way Back Support Service is part of a suite of Adelaide PHN commissioned services and provided free of charge. For more information, please contact Adelaide PHN on 8219 5900, visit The Way Back Support service page on the Beyond Blue website, or contact the service directly on 1300 077 798. The Way Back Support Service operates between 9.00am – 5.00pm Monday to Friday and is located at the Hindmarsh AnglicareSA site (159 Port Road, Hindmarsh). .
Access to supporting resources can be found via the announcement on our website.
This article was written by an Adelaide PHN Mental Health and AOD Integration Coordinator, based off information provided by Beyond Blue.
Connect February 2021 | Adelaide PHN in Action
Connect August 2020 | Adelaide PHN in Action
RAP BANNER HERE
Page | 31
ADELAIDE PRIMARY CARE IN ACTION Highlights of programs and activities affecting the delivery and experience of primary health care across the Adelaide metropolitan region
PREPARE FOR FELLOWSHIP EXAMS WITH RACGP Applications for the PEPExP now open! Have you heard about the RACGP’s new exam preparation course to help non-VR doctors? The Practice Experience Program Exam Preparation (PEPExP) term is an optional course that can be undertaken concurrently with your last PEP educational term. It is only available to PEP participants and aims to enhance your skills for the AKT and KFP RACGP Fellowship exams. The PEPExP is delivered online by experienced RACGP medical educators and examiners using authentic exam material from the RACGP exam question bank. The PEPExP term will focus on developing your clinical reasoning skills, which are key to successfully completing the Fellowship exams. Applications for the 2021.3 PEP intake are now open.
This article was provided by RACGP. Find out more at racgp.org.au/pep.
INTRODUCING WELLMOB An online portal of social and emotional wellbeing resources for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people Wellmob is a new online portal of social and emotional wellbeing resources developed for and with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. The portal contains over 200 resources including apps, websites, podcasts, videos, online programs and social media accounts for clients, their communities and practitioners. Wellmob is hosted by the Australian Indigenous HealthInfoNet. It was developed by the University Centre for Rural Health at the University of Sydney in collaboration with the Menzies team, Indigenous reference groups in Darwin, Adelaide and Lismore, and other partners.
Explore the portal at wellmob.org.au. This article is based on content from Menzies’ ‘Stay Strong Newsletter’ - visit menzies.edu.au or email Michelle.Sweet@menzies.edu.au for more information.
Hospital-level care delivered in the comfort of a patient’s home. My Home Hospital provides treatment for a range of conditions for which in-home care is considered appropriate. Available for eligible public patients 24 hours, 7 days a week across the Adelaide metropolitan region and, from 1 July 2021, Barossa Hills Fleurieu.
For more information or to download the referral form, visit myhomehospital.sa.gov.au
FIS: 21012.6
For 24/7 clinical advice or referral support call 1800 111 644.
WELLBEING SA’S MY HOME HOSPITAL Now accepting patients Eligible patients from across metropolitan Adelaide are now choosing to receive hospital-level care from the comfort and privacy of their own home with the rollout of the new Wellbeing SA My Home Hospital service. My Home Hospital is available for a range of treatments, for which in-home care is considered safe and appropriate. The service brings the care to the patient in the form of doctors, nurses, allied health, some x-rays and blood tests, medication and other support such as meals and personal care, if necessary. Patients may be eligible for My Home Hospital if they need acute hospital-level care for conditions such as cellulitis, respiratory infections, kidney and urinary tract infections, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or deep vein thrombosis. The launch of My Home Hospital follows extensive co-design with hospital and community clinicians, potential patients and families. Since January 2021, patients have already commenced using the service and doctors – including GPs and nurse practitioners – are encouraged to refer eligible patients to My Home Hospital. Wellbeing SA Chief Executive, Lyn Dean, said this new service - delivered in partnership with Calvary and Medibank – is an innovative, patient centered part of our public health system. “Using remote monitoring technology, doctors and nurses are able to stay in touch with patients in real time and track clinical observations between visits such as blood pressure, pulse and temperature. “My Home Hospital not only provides care from the comfort of people’s homes, but also reduces pressure on our hospitals.” My Home Hospital is available at no charge to eligible public patients 24 hours a day, 7 days a week across the metropolitan Adelaide area.
This article was provided by Wellbeing SA. To find out more about My Home Hospital, visit myhomehospital.sa.gov.au. A referral form is available to download from the website. Clinical advice and support for referrers about patient suitability for My Home Hospital is available 24/7 by contacting the Virtual Care Centre on 1800 111 644.
ADELAIDE
PRIMARY CARE IN ACTION
FREE ACCREDITED ASTHMA EDUCATION Asthma in Australia: Practical solutions for challenges in primary care Register at thinkgp.com.au/asthma Accredited Learning Module (ALM) or six individual modules, covering:
1
Introduction: Asthma basics
2
Partnering with your patients
3
Adjusting treatment and encouraging adherence
4
Preventative care to stop asthma flares
5
Paediatric asthma
6
Severe asthma
REFER YOUR PATIENTS TO THE COACH PROGRAM®
COACH REFERRAL SERVICE This free telephone coaching and support service* is available for patients with asthma and/or their carers.
This ALM explores the patient impact of asthma and common challenges to providing optimal care in primary practice. Based on current Australian guidelines, the ALM covers best practice diagnostic and management principles, strategies for preventative care and reducing the risk of hospitalisation, and real-world tips for making the most of your consultation time with a patient. These activities are accredited for general practitioners with both the RACGP CPD program and the ACRRM PDP program. The ALM is an accredited CPD activity worth 40 RACGP CPD points or 6 ACRRM PDP hours. 1-hr modules completed outside of the ALM are worth 2 RACGP CPD points or 1 ACRRM PDP hour each. For nurses and other professions, you may be able to self-claim this activity via your CPD governing body. Produced by
Visit asthma.org.au for more information about the program
Sponsored by
The program aims to work with the referrer to achieve improved asthma control in patients by providing additional evidence-based asthma self-management education, support and goal setting. The COACH Program® is available for patients aged 12 years and older with a confirmed asthma diagnosis.
HOW TO REFER PATIENT 1
Download template
2
Complete
3
Send via fax or secure message
REFERRAL TEMPLATES The training is provided free to the health professional community by Asthma Australia with industry support. Industry partners did not develop, review or edit these modules.
Download at asthma.org.au/referrals OR Fax: 07 3257 1080 Message: HealthLink - asthmaus / Medical-Objects FA40060001U For more information, contact Asthma Australia on 1800 ASTHMA (1800 278 462) or visit asthma.org.au
Visit thinkgp.com.au for more information about the accredited education
*Supported by the Australian Government.
ADF LOCAL DRUG TEAM PROGRAM APPLICATIONS OPEN Make a difference to alcohol and other drug use in your community The Alcohol and Drug Foundation (ADF) are looking for organisations to join the Local Drug Action Team (LDAT) Program. • Want to make a difference to alcohol and other drug use in your community? • You may have what it takes to become a Local Drug Action Team and be part of this Australian Government-funded prevention program • Applications are now open until 5 March 2021 The LDAT Program supports organisations to build or extend local partnerships and deliver evidence-based activities to prevent and minimise harms caused by alcohol and other drugs where it matters the most - at the grassroots, community level. Successful applicants will receive an initial $10,000 and support from the Alcohol and Drug Foundation to develop an evidence-based Community Action Plan. This article was provided by ADF. For more information, visit: community.adf.org.au.
ADELAIDE
PRIMARY CARE IN ACTION
HOW’S YOUR HEAD TODAY? The Department of Health’s COVID-19 mental health campaign COVID-19 is having a significant impact on our lives and many of us have had to make changes to stop the spread and keep our loved ones and community safe. Some of these changes, such as physical distancing, staying at home and limiting travel, have made many people feel isolated or lonely. You may be having trouble sleeping, feeling anxious or stressed, experiencing mood changes, low energy levels or worrying about the future. Many people are having similar feelings, and you are not alone. If you’re not feeling like yourself, there are things you can do to feel better like: • Keep in touch with family and friends – on the phone or using video chat if you can’t get together • Talking to people about how you are feeling can help you feel better • Get enough sleep – sleep will help your body recharge and manage stress better • Eat well and stay active – eating healthy foods and exercising is good for mental and physical health • Create a routine that works for you – plan your day and have regular sleep and mealtimes When you’re feeling off, it is important you know where to go for help. The Australian Government’s Head to Health website has information and resources from trusted mental health organisations. You can access a range of phone and online mental health services or find out more information about how to keep well. This article is based off a stakeholder kit provided by the Department of Health. Please visit headtohealth.gov.au for information, advice and professional support.
6TH NATIONAL INDIGENOUS DRUG AND ALCOHOL CONFERENCE Grant opportunities to support attending 6th National Indigenous Drug and Alcohol Conference Stamford Grand, Glenelg, SA 23 - 26 March 2021 On 11 September 2020 the Australian Government announced it would establish the $50 million Business Events Grants program. This program is funded under the $1 billion Relief and Recovery Fund which is providing assistance to sectors, regions and communities disproportionately affected by the economic impacts of COVID-19. The 6th National Indigenous Drug and Alcohol Conference (NIDAC20) has been listed on the Schedule of Approved Business Events on Austrade’s website. This means eligible businesses can apply for funding under the Business Events Grants Program to cover up to 50% of the costs of participating in this Conference for items such as trade exhibition, sponsorship and delegate attendance costs. Grants from $10,000 to $250,000 per entity are available. Applicants are able to apply for multiple events listed on the Schedule of Approved Business Events. Grant applications close at 5pm (AEDST) on 30 March 2021 or earlier if funding is exhausted. This article was provided by NIDAC20. For further information or to apply, please go to business.gov.au.
National Close The Gap Day - Thursday 18 March 2021
ADELAIDE
PRIMARY CARE IN ACTION
CALHN OUTPATIENT MANAGEMENT REDESIGN Helping GPs and their patients The winds of change are blowing through the corridors of outpatient departments in South Australia, bringing with them hope of a more collaborative system so that patients who need hospital outpatient care are seen in a more timely fashion while GPs are supported to care for their patients in the community when this is the better option. Previously all referrals were accepted, even when the referral simply asked the unit concerned to see the patient with very little detail as to why. These referrals were assigned the least urgent triage category which in practice consigned the patients to long waiting lists with little hope of ever being seen. A state-wide clinical audit is currently being undertaken to determine which of the patients on these waiting lists still require appointments and to allow GPs to give an updated referral which gives the triaging clinician insight into the patient’s current state of health, why review is needed and an opportunity to consider whether this is best done in a tertiary setting or could be done in primary care with appropriate support. Outpatient units are starting to develop much clearer and more easily located referral criteria so that GPs can easily see if their patient would benefit from referral to that service and which information will expedite triage. Including copies of pertinent results, specialist letters and even photographs (with patient consent of course) really makes a difference. Not all referrals can be accepted, but that doesn’t mean that GPs can’t access help. Some units will send a letter back with the referral suggesting other options for referral (for example, some conditions referred to Ophthalmology such as diabetic eye checks, allergic conjunctivitis and so on can be safely seen by optometrists). All units are working towards providing useful resources on their webpages (for example, Dermatology recommend dermnetnz.org.au, a site developed by NZ dermatologists with a wealth of information on diagnosis and management of skin conditions). Some are setting up email options for GPs to ask questions about deidentified patients. And the plan is for every unit to have a point of contact if a GP needs to speak to someone for advice.
All of this, coupled with targeted education to assist with the issues where GPs may get stuck, means that instead of being left out of the loop as their patients are swallowed up by hospitals or patients languishing on long waiting lists, we start to build true partnerships and open lines of communication between the skilled generalists who know their patients best and the non-GP specialists who have the extra information that we need to ensure that our patients get the care they need. This article was provided a CALHN and Adelaide PHN’s GP Liaison Officer. More information about the redesign can be found via CALHN’s website. Or contact your local GP Unit: • Central Adelaide Local Health Network (CALHN) Jackie Yeoh Jackie.Yeoh@sa.gov.au • Southern Adelaide Local Health Network (SALHN) Mai Duong Mai.Duong@sa.gov.au • Northern Adelaide Local Health Network (NALHN) Chad Collins Chad.Collins@sa.gov.au
ADELAIDE
PRIMARY CARE IN ACTION
RCH PAEDIATRIC HANDBOOK A practical management guide to health problems of newborns, children and adolescents This year, The Royal Children’s Hospital (RCH) celebrates its 150th Anniversary. As part of this occasion, the RCH is proud to launch the 10th edition of the RCH Paediatric Handbook. The Handbook presents collective expertise of the hospital’s world leading clinical staff, including practical advice on the assessment and management of common and serious child health conditions. An essential practical management guide to the health problems of newborn infants, children and adolescents, the Paediatric Handbook is a valuable reference for all medical students, hospital residents and community practitioners. The Paediatric Handbook 10th edition can be purchased from December 1, 2020 via shop.rch.org.au and wiley.com This article was provided by RCH. For more information, contact rch.communications@ rch.org.au
SCRIPTCHECKSA IS ALMOST HERE! Coming March 2021 South Australia’s Real-Time Prescription Monitoring (RTPM) system, ScriptCheckSA is scheduled for release to all SA prescribers and pharmacists in late March 2021. As part of the roll out of ScriptCheckSA, comprehensive online training will be available to doctors and pharmacists on how to use the system, the safer prescribing and dispensing of high-risk medicines as well as respectfully responding to the needs of patients. The training and support resources will be available, prior to system roll-out, on the ScriptCheckSA webpage sahealth.sa.gov.au/scriptchecksa in March 2021. You are encouraged to complete the online training and review the support resources before accessing ScriptCheckSA. These materials will help you to access and use ScriptCheckSA, assist to interpret the available information and refresh your knowledge about appropriate referral pathways if the system identifies a patient who may be at risk of harm from prescribed monitored drugs. In late March 2021, AHPRA registered prescribers and pharmacists will receive an email inviting them to register to use ScriptCheckSA. If you do not receive an email by early April 2021, the registration portal can be accessed from sahealth.sa.gov.au/ scriptchecksa. ScriptCheckSA will give prescribers and pharmacists real time information, with limited data available from 1 November 2020, about a patient’s access to monitored drugs. More complete patient history, including legal authority information, should still be requested from the Drugs of Dependence Unit on 1300 652 584 or HealthDrugsofDependenceUnit@sa.gov.au. This article was provided by a member of the RTPM Project. For more information on ScriptCheckSA, please visit sahealth.sa.gov.au/scriptchecksa. Any questions about ScriptCheckSA should be directed to Health.RTPM@sa.gov.au.
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.