The clinics

The 2022-23 Budget committed $16.4m over four years to support the establishment of targeted Endometriosis and Pelvic Pain GP Clinics (GP clinics) in primary care settings. The intention of these GP clinics is to maximise the role of the GP-led multidisciplinary care team in the management of endometriosis and pelvic pain, and to embed the GP as a core part of the care pathway for this chronic condition, optimising the role of primary care. 

Funding will be provided to a minimum of 16 existing GP clinics to enhance capability and capacity to manage endometriosis and pelvic pain. At least one clinic will be located in each State and Territory. This funding will be targeted at clinics who currently deliver services focused on women’s health, and aimed at improving provision of diagnosis, treatment and management of endometriosis and pelvic pain. It is expected that these clinics will enable more appropriate and timely endometriosis care and management, leading to improved diagnosis timeframes and appropriate pain management for impacted patients. 

GP clinic objectives include: 

• improved access for patients to diagnostic, treatment and referral services for endometriosis and pelvic pain
• provision of access to new information, support resources, care pathways and networks
• provision of an appropriately trained workforce with expertise in endometriosis and pelvic pain
• direct benefit to patients from rural and regional areas 
• the provision of enhanced support to priority populations 
• increased access to support services, either through a nurse navigator or referral pathway. 

Funding of up to $200,000 p.a. over four years will be provided to at least 16 GP clinics following a Department of Health and Aged Care (Department) assessment process. The successful GP clinics will be formally commissioned by their local Primary Health Network (PHN) with reporting and management requirements associated with the funding. Funding will commence in the 2022-23 financial year. 

This funding may be used for a wide range of services including but not limited to:

• advanced training qualifications
• further study, additional practice staff (e.g. allied health, nurse navigators)
• enhanced referral pathways with local providers
• equipment purchase.

How to apply

Applicants should complete the following form:
https://app.smartsheet.com/b/form/4ab1e4a6e23d4f9687e05a6cf290cc66 

• Please note once commenced, the application must be completed in FULL. Smartsheet does not offer a Save and Continue Option.
• Submission of an application as part of this initial process is not a guarantee a GP practice will be selected to receive funding. 
• PHNs will not be responsible for decisions on final GP clinic locations, funding amounts or assessment activities. 
• PHNs may be engaged by the Department to seek further information from a general practice or to provide supplementary information on local needs and services to support an application.

 Applications strictly close Wednesday, 30 November, 5 pm.