Lifescripts can be implemented either opportunistically or systematically.  The Lifescripts methodology uses the 'five As' approach, Ask, Assess, Advise, Assist and Arrange.  For practices engaging in systematic or structured implementation of Lifescripts the collaborative methodology of Plan, Do, Study and Act is also recommended. 

Divisions are encouraged, where they have existing relationships with Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Services, to utilise the Lifescripts tools in conjunction with the Adult Health Check for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People. 

How does Lifescripts fit into Divisions existing work?

Lifescripts is designed to be integrated into a range of activities already being conducted in General Practice and by the Divisions Network.  Lifescripts provides general practice with tools and assistance to engage patients in healthier lifestyles. 

The risk factors addressed in the Lifescripts resources are all risk factors for chronic disease.  GPs, Practice Nurses, Aboriginal Health Workers and Allied Health Workers employed in a general practice setting can utilise the Lifescripts resources during consultations with patients who have chronic disease.  Divisions have a significant role in supporting general practice in managing chronic disease, particularly diabetes, mental health and asthma.  Lifescripts could be included as a component of Divisional chronic disease programs. 

A number of Medicare Item Numbers may be of relevance for addressing lifestyle risk factors with patients, in particular the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Adult Health Check item number and the new Chronic Disease Management item numbers.  On 28 June the Hon Tony Abbott, Minister for Health and Ageing announced a new Medicare-funded annual Indigenous health check for children from birth to 14 years of age.  The detail for this new item number is to be developed by June 2006. 

The Chronic Disease Item numbers give scope for the role of Practice Nurses and Aboriginal Health Workers in assisting GPs to develop GP Management Plans and Team Care Arrangements.  Many Divisions operate Practice Nurse Programs, education on lifestyle risk factors and use of the Lifescripts resources can be included in educational activities and peer support provided through the Practice Nurse Program. 

Many Divisions already have a range of preventative health programs in operation, such as the Active Script program and SNAP programs.  These and other local preventative health programs can be used as a vehicle for including Lifescripts resources and messages to general practice and to patients.  Other programs Divisions run such as practice support programs, practice detailing and assisting practices to develop recall and reminder systems also provide opportunities to link in with Lifescripts and encourage a stronger focus on prevention. 

A number of Divisions have existing relationships with Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Services, Aboriginal Medical Services and other local indigenous organisations.  These relationships could be used to engage with indigenous communities on lifestyle risk factors. 

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