CURRENT PROGRAMS AND PROJECTS

Governance and Management

In responding to the challenges presented by Outcomes Based Funding, the Western Melbourne Division of General Practice also included a strategic review of its governance, management, operational and information management processes.

During 1999/2000 , the Division began the formalisation of a series of upgrades to these processes to achieve operational efficiency gains and better financial management. This process will be continued in 2000/2001. The governance and management structures were addressed first, and a series of enabling motions were passed at the 1999 Annual General meeting. At the same time, we reviewed and strengthened our financial control and budgeting processes. Essentially, the changes created a separation between governance and operational management and established clear lines of accountability.

GP Issues

Accreditation, information technology, work force issues - in particular the lack of Women GPs - and lack of mental health and allied health support services continue to be major issues for General Practice in the western suburbs.

To address the multicultural needs of its local community, the Division has successfully delivered relevant programs and resources including a quality internationally recognised Refugee Health manual and desk top guides for GPs.

The Division programs for 2000/ 2001 reflect our continued efforts in those areas with the addition of a strengthened mental health program. Our strategic plan has been amended accordingly.

Current Programs and Projects

The Western Melbourne Division of General Practice has a strong record of running projects and programs in partnership with other agencies in the west, these include Victoria university, Western and Sunshine Hospitals, Western Centre Against Sexual Assault, and the Victorian Foundation for the Survivors of Torture.

GP Services

Sub Programs include Program Evaluation, Professional Development, Paediatrics, Immunisation, Information Technology, Scanning, Communications and Marketing, Women GPs Network, Refugee Health and Quality Services (Accreditation).

GP Integration

Sub Programs include Health Planning, Enhanced Primary Care and Inter-Divisional Liaison.

Illness Management

Sub Programs include Diabetes, Palliative Care, Drug and Alcohol, Asthma and Mental Health.

Health Promotion

Sub Programs include Community Advisory Group, Women's Health, Men's Health, Youth Health, Falls Prevention and Aboriginal Health.

Management

Sub Programs include Governance, Financial Management, HR Management, Information Management, Planning and Monitoring and Reporting.