ACC and General Practice Connect
General Practice has indicated they would like to see a more flexible approach to the way we work together. We agree, and want to explore this collaboratively with the primary healthcare sector. We want to build a framework that develops our relationship with General Practice. We would like to move from a transactional model to a way of working that supports innovation, and improves access and outcomes for patients. The framework will also ensure quality and consistency of care. Currently, ACC operates under legislation set out in the Accident Compensation Act. Under the Act, ACC is liable to pay or contribute the amount stated in a contract or agreement. Where no contract or agreement exists, payment is made under Regulations. Rural General Practice and Urgent Care Clinics have separate contracts with ACC, however the rest of General Practice does not. Most General Practice providers are paid under Regulations on a fee-per-visit basis.
Together, we would like to explore an alternative relationship framework that: 1. Enables us to collaboratively assess needs, determine priorities, and proactively plan for improved patient outcomes. ACC’s Health Sector Strategy focuses on collaborating and partnering with providers to improve patient outcomes. Effective planning for outcomes requires a process to assess needs, determine priorities, and funding the necessary services to meet patient needs. The current regulatory framework restricts the collaboration necessary to do this.
2. Supports innovation in General Practice with integrated inter-disciplinary delivery models and enhanced clinical pathways. The Cost of Treatment Regulations limit innovative practice and business models. The Government wants to maximise the scope of the general practice workforce, and pursue innovation and integrated ways of working. Currently general practice can only deliver services for ACC against a fixed price schedule for specified treatments provided by specific clinicians.
3. Provides visibility of service quality and outcomes for ACC patients in primary care. Under the Cost of Treatment Regulations, we lack visibility of service quality or outcomes for our patients in General Practice. We are unable to identify where there may be gaps in service quality or areas where we might need to support workforce capability. Most importantly, we are unable to acknowledge excellence.