semphn

Medication Assisted Treatment for Opioid Dependence (MATOD) clinical observation opportunity

Tue, 14 Apr 2026 03:42:30 GMT

SEMPHN is excited to offer a new paid opportunity for accredited practitioners wanting to gain real-world experience in Medication Assisted Treatment of Opioid Dependence (MATOD).

Developed in collaboration with Alfred Mental and Addiction Health (AMAH), the MATOD Clinical Placement Program is designed to build the skills and confidence of GPs and NPs who want to provide quality MATOD services to patients who live with Opioid Use Disorder. This new learning opportunity offers funded placements in clinical observation across AMAH’s Specialist Pharmacotherapy Service.

Program structure:

Placements to be offered to GPs and NPs Victoria Wide.
Optimal placement for observers is 8x half days for GPs and 4x full days for NPs. This will vary and depend on available activities and your capacity.
Placement activities to be agreed prior to start of placement, to support coordination and ensure capacity for discussion and reflection of observation.

Benefits of the program:

Hands-on, real-world learning in a highly supportive specialist environment.
Start prescribing at a time when your involvement has potential to make a big impact.
Generous remuneration for training time.
Build on prior MATOD training and experience.
Guaranteed exposure to MATOD prescribing.
Fit the program into your working week.

Updated mental health training standards for GPs

Thu, 19 Mar 2026 04:23:57 GMT

The General Practice Mental Health Standards Collaboration (GPMHSC) has released updated mental health training standards for 2026–2028, offering clearer guidance on training pathways required by GPs to access Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS) items related to mental health care under the Better Access Initiative.

While mental health training is not required to practise as a GP, accredited Mental Health Skills Training (MHST) remains essential to access Medicare Better Access items, including preparing and reviewing mental health treatment plans.

The updated standards provide greater clarity by outlining:

Training and education requirements to access general practice mental health MBS items
Recommended Continuing Professional Development (CPD) pathways to ensure mental health knowledge remains current and comprehensive
Guidance to support GPs in selecting high-quality mental health training programs.

Additionally, the updated guidelines link to a range of evidence-based resources relevant to primary care focusing on suicide prevention, suicide first aid and supporting individuals, families and communities following a suicide.

The release of the updated standards come as a timely opportunity to acknowledge that as frequent first points of contact for people in distress, GPs play a vital role in suicide prevention.

Through the Targeted Regional Initiatives for Suicide Prevention (TRISP) program and SEMPHN’s broader suicide prevention work, SEMPHN supports general practice by promoting:

Evidence-informed suicide prevention training
Suicide first aid and safety planning resources
Postvention guidance to support individuals and families following suicide
Local referral pathways and service navigation support
Workforce development opportunities for general practice teams.

These resources aim to strengthen the confidence of primary care teams responding to suicide risk, while ensuring patients can access prompt and coordinated support across the mental health system.

A reminder that responding to patients in crisis can be demanding, and resources such as Drs4Drs offer free, confidential support for doctors and medical students nationally.

Homebound vaccination program extended to Flu

Tue, 17 Mar 2026 23:10:52 GMT

From April 2026, SEMPHN’s Vulnerable Peoples Homebound Vaccination Program can receive referrals for Flu vaccination only, to eligible homebound individuals. Previously, the Flu vaccination was not available on its own.

The Vulnerable Peoples Homebound Vaccination Program can be used to access Flu vaccination or COVID-19 vaccination at home, and is available until 30 June 2026.

To be eligible for the program, the individual must:

be homebound or have a genuine need for an at-home vaccination; and,
be eligible for a COVID-19 vaccination (see eligibility criteria ); or,
meet the National Immunisation Program eligibility for a Flu vaccination (see eligibility criteria )

Anyone can request a vaccination for an eligible individual using the referral form on SEMPHN’s website . Individuals can also complete the form to request vaccination for themselves.

Once the referral has been received, a vaccination provider will contact the homebound person (or nominated contact) to assess eligibility, and, if eligibility is confirmed, will schedule a time for the in-reach home visit.

New statewide referral criteria for referrals to lung nodule services are now in effect

Mon, 16 Mar 2026 03:24:04 GMT

Statewide referral criteria is now in effect for adult lung nodule conditions in public hospitals.

The Victorian Department of Health has developed and published statewide referral criteria for lung nodule condition.

The aim of statewide referral criteria is to improve access to public hospitals in Victoria by providing clear and concise guidance on when a referral for specialist opinion and management is indicated.

Patients can be placed on a specialist clinic wait list when a referring GP provides information that shows the referral meets the statewide specialist referral criteria.

The criteria identify the information that should be included in a referral to assess the referral and direct the patient to the best service available.

This new adult lung nodule criteria sits within respiratory conditions, a suite previously developed and published by the Victorian Department of Health in 2024.

Visit Department of Health website when considering a referral for a patient: Statewide Referral Criteria | health.vic.gov.

National Advance Care Planning Week

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 03:48:36 GMT

National Advance Care Planning Week is 16 March – 22 March. Advance Care Planning (ACP) is the process of planning for the care someone would (or would not) like to receive in the event of serious illness, when they are unable to communicate their preferences, or at the end of their life.

Advance Care Planning helps ensure that:

A person continues to have a say in their care, even when they lose physical or mental capacity
People are comforted knowing they are more likely to receive treatment they want, and not receive treatment they don't want
Carers and family can make decisions knowing their loved one's choices

People often need help to develop an Advance Care Plan that will guide their medical treatment and care.

GPs develop ongoing relationships with their patients and are well positioned to initiate Advance Care Planning. Several items on the Medicare Benefits Schedule can support ACP as part of other health interventions. More information on these can be found here .

SEMPHN has a range of resources available for Advance Care Planning.

Additionally, Advanced Care Planning Australia (ACPA) drives awareness and best practice through community engagement, workforce education, research, and system-level advocacy. With deep insight into the challenges faced by both healthcare professionals and the broader community, ACPA delivers timely, practical resources to dispel misconceptions and support confident, informed decision-making. Visit the ACPA website to find out more.

SEMPHN achieves globally recognised information security accreditation

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 00:42:12 GMT

South Eastern Melbourne Primary Health Network (SEMPHN) has achieved ISO 27001 certification, demonstrating our commitment to robust risk management, strong data protection, and continuous improvement of our information security systems.

South Eastern Melbourne Primary Health Network (SEMPHN) has achieved ISO 27001 certification, demonstrating our commitment to robust risk management, strong data protection, and continuous improvement of our information security systems.

ISO 27001 is the internationally recognised standard for information security management systems. Achieving certification involved a comprehensive independent audit of our policies, processes, and controls.

The certification means our information management systems, security controls, and data governance processes meet global best practice standards for safeguarding the privacy, integrity, and availability of information.

Ensuring our information is accurate, secure and can be reliably accessed when needed supports effective population health planning, capacity building, and service commissioning, contributing towards improved delivery of primary health care for our community.

We will continue to maintain and further strengthen its information security measures through ongoing monitoring, staff training, and scheduled surveillance audits.

New Carnegie Medicare Urgent Care Clinic expanding access to timely, bulk-billed care

Mon, 09 Mar 2026 20:00:23 GMT

Walk-in service already supporting local patients and helping reduce emergency department demand

South Eastern Melbourne Primary Health Network (SEMPHN) welcomes the opening of the Carnegie Medicare Urgent Care Clinic (UCC), now providing free, GP-led urgent care to the local community.

The Carnegie clinic is one of four new Medicare UCCs recently opened across south east Melbourne — alongside services in Sandringham, Somerville and Pakenham — as part of the Australian Government’s national rollout of Medicare Urgent Care Clinics. The program is delivering 50 new clinics across Australia, including 12 in Victoria, to improve access to timely care and help reduce pressure on emergency departments.

With the opening of these services, SEMPHN now commissions eight Medicare Urgent Care Clinics across the region. In addition to the new clinics, existing clinics operate in Prahran, Dandenong, Narre Warren and Frankston.

Located at Level 2, 2 Koornang Road, Carnegie, within Carnegie Central Medical Clinic, the service opened on 15 December and operates 14 hours a day, seven days a week, providing walk-in care for urgent but non-life-threatening conditions.

The clinic has already supported 1,182 visits, with early feedback highlighting convenient access and timely care.

Pictured: Practice Manager Samantha Allen said the service is already benefiting the local community.

“Patients are telling us the clinic is convenient and quick. Many have shared they would have otherwise attended an emergency department, so they value being seen sooner,” Samantha said.

Supporting timely care and reducing ED demand

Medicare Urgent Care Clinics treat conditions that require prompt attention while helping reduce pressure on busy emergency departments.

GP Dr Virginia Hamilton recently treated a patient who had delayed care after waiting several hours in hospital.

“Walk-in urgent care means patients can usually see a doctor much sooner,” Dr Hamilton said. “Providing a bulk-billed urgent service also removes cost barriers and offers a practical alternative to emergency departments.”

The clinic supports patients when their regular GP is unavailable or when care cannot wait.

Pictured: Carnegie Medicare Urgent Care Clinic GP, Dr Virginia Hamilton

Treating common urgent conditions

Since opening, clinicians have treated a range of conditions including sprains, minor fractures, cuts, fever in children and gastroenteritis.

Co-location with nearby diagnostic services supports timely assessment and treatment.

“Patients can have an X-ray close by and return straight away so we can review the results,” Dr Hamilton said.

Demand has remained steady, with weekends averaging around 50 patients per day.

Pictured: Co-location with Precise Radiology supports timely assessment and treatment.

Pictured: Anh My Tran, Company Director from Precise Radiology

Complementing general practice

The clinic works alongside local GPs by providing urgent care when appointments are unavailable and communicating back to support ongoing treatment.

“We treat urgent issues and ensure patients return to their regular GP for follow-up care,” Samantha said.

For many patients, this provides a clear pathway between general practice and hospital care.

When to visit a Medicare Urgent Care Clinic

Visit a Medicare UCC if:

Your regular GP is unavailable and your condition cannot wait
You need urgent care for a non-life-threatening illness or injury
You would otherwise consider attending an emergency department

Visit our page to find your nearest Medicare Urgent Care Clinic.

In an emergency, always call Triple Zero (000).

New group program supporting mental health and well-being management

Tue, 03 Mar 2026 00:22:05 GMT

My Way to Well-being is a free, six-week group program funded by SEMPHN and delivered by Better Place Australia, supporting participants with evidence-based strategies to enrich their mental health and wellbeing.

Facilitated by mental health professionals, participants will be supported in developing their knowledge of strategies and skills for managing their mental health and well-being in a safe space. Participants are encouraged to learn and practice together, finishing the program having found and implemented the well-being strategies that works best for them.

These groups aim to build an understanding of:

What depression is and ways to manage depressive feelings
What anxiety is and ways to manage anxious feelings
Mental health and mental illness
How our emotions and communication styles can impact on our relationships with others.

My Way to-Well-being is available to those who:

Are aged 18 years or older
Live, work, or study in the Cardinia or Kingston Shires (those in the SEMPHN catchment region are also considered)
Have a Health Care Card or are low-income earners
Have access to Zoom from a safe and private space with a camera on
Are comfortable and able to participate in group-based learning.

Session details:

Date and Time: 1 ^st May – 5 ^th June, every Friday, 10:00am-12:00pm (six-week group)

Location: Online (Zoom)

SEMPHN Health Needs Assessment updated with latest 2025 data

Tue, 03 Mar 2026 00:06:59 GMT

South Eastern Melbourne Primary Health Network’s (SEMPHN’s) 2025–2028 Health Needs Assessment has been updated with the latest data.

The Australian Department of Health, Disability and Ageing requires that primary health networks produce a comprehensive health needs assessment every 3 years. We use this assessment – in conjunction with government and partner organisations – to identify opportunities to improve care and make evidence-informed decisions on how and where to invest funds and resources.

In addition to producing the 3-year comprehensive health needs assessment, we undertake a voluntary annual update. This ensures we, and our stakeholders, have access to the latest information and insights, helping us stay on top of the south east Melbourne community’s evolving needs and supporting effective health service design and commissioning.

The update involved the review of more than 100 sources of population, health and service usage data, as well as consultation with local stakeholders to understand the stories behind the numbers.

Read the 2025 update of SEMPHN’s Health Needs Assessment today for the latest south east Melbourne community health data.

An extra pair of hands: Supporting GPs to care for patients with complex needs

Tue, 24 Feb 2026 23:00:00 GMT

Funded by South Eastern Melbourne Primary Health Network (SEMPHN), Silverchain’s Care Coordination Support Service (CCSS) is supporting general practices across south east Melbourne to better care for patients with chronic and complex needs.

Delivered by Silverchain , CCSS provides short-term care coordination support that complements GP-led care and Chronic Condition Management (CCM) plans, helping patients stay well between visits and connected to the services they need.

Dr Gowri Ratnavelar operates a general practice clinic in Dandenong that partners with Silverchain through the CCSS to support patients with complex health and social needs.

Dr Gowri’s clinic first became involved with the service after an initial outreach from Sharita Medell, Clinical Service Lead of the Care Coordination Support Service.

“We received an email introducing Silverchain’s services, followed by a face-to-face meeting to clarify what was offered, eligibility criteria, and their capacity,” Dr Gowri said. “Patients already on NDIS aren’t eligible. Many of our patients are refugees with multiple medical, physical, mental health, and alcohol issues, making them a fit for the program.”

Through SEMPHN’s funding of the CCSS, general practices like Dr Gowri’s are supported with additional care coordination capacity that works alongside GP clinical care, rather than replacing it.

Dr Gowri highlighted the impact of the service on a highly vulnerable population, notably Sri Lankan Tamil refugees and others facing complex health and social challenges.

“Silverchain’s input has played a bigger role in our clinic. Many patients appreciate the support they’ve received. The team communicates well, follows up on referrals, and requests further information when needed,” she said.

The service helps patients with chronic and complex needs to attend their appointments and to access services.

“Silverchain’s team encourages their attendance, sometimes providing transport. One patient who became homeless due to family violence received practical guidance and support to navigate services. As GPs, we can’t do it all. Silverchain gives us an extra pair of hands and invaluable experience,” Dr Gowri said.

Supporting patients to remain well in the community and avoid preventable hospital admissions is a key focus of SEMPHN’s investment in care coordination services.

“Patients with serious alcohol problems or mental health crises who were admitted to hospital have been able to remain in the community with Silverchain’s ongoing support. This has minimised repeat hospitalisations,” Dr Gowri said.

Dr Gowri’s clinic has also adopted a compassionate policy for patient’s ineligible for Medicare.

“We see regular patients without Medicare at no cost, especially those who’ve temporarily lost access. It’s our commitment to community care,” she said.

Feedback from patients has been overwhelmingly positive.

“They’re grateful for the support and help, but relapse is common and long-term change is hard. We give them every chance to improve, even if some struggle repeatedly,” Dr Gowri said.

Referring patients is straightforward.

“There’s a standard referral letter. Silverchain contacts the patient and follows up with the clinic if more information is needed. It couldn’t be easier,” Dr Gowri said.

The funded CCSS is available across all ten local government areas in South Eastern Melbourne.

For more information about the Care Coordination Support Service, contact Silverchain on 1300 650 803. Practices can also request more information or an in-service to learn more about the CCSS by emailing SEVIC@silverchain.org.au.

Featured image: Dr Gowri Ratnavelar (middle) at GPG GP Clinic with Silverchain representatives (image credit: Silverchain)

Improved access to multicultural services and support in Casey and Greater Dandenong

Fri, 13 Feb 2026 03:13:20 GMT

South Eastern Melbourne Primary Health Network (SEMPHN) is pleased to announce the successful general practices in the delivery of the Multicultural Access Program across the Local Government Areas (LGAs) of Casey and Greater Dandenong.

Congratulations to the following general practices:

Dandenong West Medical Centre
Duff Street Medical Centre
Keys Medical Centre
Casey Gate Medical Centre
Doveton Medical Centre
Noble Medical Centre
Shalimar House Medical Centre
Botanic Ridge Doctors
Stud Road Medical Centre
Cranbourne West Medical Centre
Dandenong Village Medical Centre
Goldcare Medical Centre

The Multicultural Access Program , which forms part of the After-Hours Program, aims to strengthen access, experience and health outcomes for multicultural communities.

Each of the twelve selected general practices will design and implement the program in a manner that best aligns with the specific needs of the communities they serve, ensuring that service delivery is tailored, responsive, and culturally appropriate.

SEMPHN's December 2023 Health Needs Assessment identified Casey and Greater Dandenong LGAs as priority areas due to high concentrations of Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) populations. The initiative focuses particularly on at-risk asylum seekers, refugees, humanitarian entrants, and high-need CALD new arrivals across the Casey and Greater Dandenong regions.

The program is funded until 30 June 2026 .

First BBPIP payments now processed and national Bulk Billing campaign launched

Thu, 12 Feb 2026 02:09:14 GMT

First Bulk Billing Practice Incentive Program payments now processed

The first quarterly Bulk Billing Practice Incentive Program (BBPIP) payments have been processed by Services Australia. Practices and providers registered for BBPIP and who have met all eligibility criteria should now have received their initial payment.

Practices and providers can check their payment details through Services Australia’s Health Professional Online Services (HPOS) and will also receive a payment notice in their HPOS email inbox.

If registered practices and providers did not receive a payment, they should check if they have met BBPIP program requirements.

Steps to investigate missing payments:

Check eligibility: Confirm that the practice is registered for both MyMedicare and BBPIP ( See Services Australia BBPIP eLearning module, slide 3 )
Verify bank details: Ensure the practice has entered its bank account details in the Organisation Register in HPOS (instructions for updating bank details for MyMedicare and/or instructions for managing your bank details using HPOS )
Check provider bank details: Individual GPs must add their bank details to PRODA for BBPIP payments to receive payments. If any provider bank details are missing, you can identify those providers using the ‘providers’ tab See Services Australia BBPIP eLearning module , slide 8 ). Each doctor must log in to PRODA as an individual to update their bank account details for BBPIP. If a GP delivers services across multiple locations, they must nominate bank details at each BBPIP participating practice location. Please refer to Services Australia resource Adding provider bank account details for BBPIP for step-by-step instructions for providers, or view SEMPHN's instructions for managing your bank details using HPOS .
Check accreditation: Ensure your practice's accreditation is current.
Review HPOS notifications: Check the HPOS inbox for notifications regarding payment issues.
Check your BBPIP Registration Date is correct - Check the ‘Days counted for payment’ ( See Services Australia BBPIP eLearning module , see slide 8 ). Practices may backdate BBPIP registration (to as early as 1 November 2025), so long as they were bulk billing all eligible services from this date.

For more information, visit health.gov.au/BBPIP .

New ‘Bulk Billing for all Australians’ national campaign launched

The Australian Government has launched a new campaign to inform Medicare-eligible patients how to find bulk billed GP care.

The campaign is being delivered nationally across television, social media, digital, print and search channels, with tailored materials to ensure accessibility for First Nations and multicultural audiences. 

The national campaign includes:

An interactive map of bulk billing practices that helps patients locate nearby clinics offering bulk billing. View map here .
15‑second television and digital advertisements designed to increase understanding of strengthened bulk billing supports. View resources here .
A suite of downloadable bulk billing resources to assist practices in promoting the campaign to patients. View resources here .

More information and campaign materials can be found here .

For further information, you can visit our website or reach out for support at providersupport@semphn.org.au .

Funding boost strengthens capacity at Dandenong Medicare Urgent Care Clinic

Tue, 10 Feb 2026 23:05:12 GMT

Workforce uplift responds to sustained demand at a high-throughput urgent care service

South Eastern Melbourne Primary Health Network (SEMPHN) has approved a funding boost for the Dandenong Medicare Urgent Care Clinic to support increased workforce capacity during peak demand periods.

Operating since December 2022, the Dandenong Medicare UCC has supported more than 60,800 patient visits, making it the highest-volume Medicare UCC in Victoria. The clinic is open 14 hours a day, seven days a week and provides walk-in, fully bulk-billed, GP-led care for urgent but non-life-threatening conditions.

The clinic plays a critical role in the local health system, supporting diversion from Dandenong Hospital (Monash Health). Voluntary patient survey data indicates that 54% of patients would have otherwise attended an emergency department, while 42% would have sought care from a GP, reinforcing the clinic’s role in improving system flow and access.

The funding uplift will support additional GP, nursing and administrative staff during the busiest days and hours, enabling the service to safely accommodate increased patient volumes while maintaining quality, safety and continuity of care. Operating hours will remain unchanged, with the uplift focused on strengthening capacity during peak periods.

This investment reflects SEMPHN’s commitment to responsive, evidence-based commissioning and ensuring people in Dandenong can access the right care, at the right time, close to home.

Celebrating innovation in general practice: Nurse Practitioner model improving access to care

Tue, 03 Feb 2026 22:41:53 GMT

To mark Primary Health Care Nurses Day (4 February ) , South Eastern Melbourne PHN is celebrating a local general practice that has successfully supported one of its nurses to step into a Nurse Practitioner role, strengthening access to care for patients and supporting a more sustainable general practice workforce.

At Safety Beach Medical and Wellness Practice, Nicole Prest recently completed her Nurse Practitioner training after several years. The practice supported Nicole throughout her studies, including providing financial support, and is now seeing the benefits of integrating the Nurse Practitioner role into daily care.

What is a Nurse Practitioner?

Nurse Practitioners are Registered Nurses with advanced clinical training who can assess and manage patients, prescribe medications, order investigations, and provide education and preventative care. Nurse Practitioners have completed additional university study at Master degree level and are the most senior and independent clinical nurses in our health care system. In general practice, they work collaboratively with GPs to support patient care and improve access to timely appointments.

A journey shaped by experience and support

Nicole said her decision to pursue Nurse Practitioner training came from a desire to provide more comprehensive care to patients.

“I wanted greater autonomy in patient care and the ability to follow patients through their entire journey,” Nicole said. “I really enjoy clinical decision-making, and becoming a Nurse Practitioner felt like a natural progression that allowed me to use my experience in a broader way.”

Before commencing her training, Nicole worked as a practice nurse, supporting patients through chronic disease management, health assessments, immunisations and education. As her role evolved, so did her interest in advanced clinical practice.

The training process took several years and required balancing postgraduate study with full-time work, supervised practice hours and competency assessments.

“It was a demanding process and required strong time management and resilience,” Nicole said. “But it was also incredibly rewarding, and having support from colleagues and mentors made a big difference.”

According to Practice Manager Vanessa Patané, supporting Nicole’s training aligned with the practice’s long-standing commitment to investing in its nursing team.

“We’ve always been very supportive of our nurses pursuing further training,” Vanessa said. “When Nicole completed her Nurse Practitioner training, we could immediately see how this role could help patients get appointments sooner and reduce pressure on GP appointments.”

The Nurse Practitioner role has enabled the practice to offer additional appointment options for patients, often at a lower cost, while supporting GPs with aspects of care such as repeat referrals, prescriptions, medical certificates and acute presentations.

“This has really helped with workflow,” Vanessa said. “It supports the doctors rather than taking work away from them, and it’s helped improve work–life balance across the team.”

Vanessa said patient uptake has been strong, particularly because many patients already had established relationships with the nursing team.

“Patients already feel comfortable with the nurses here,” she said. “Being able to see a Nurse Practitioner they know, who understands their history, has worked really well. It keeps care within the practice and supports continuity with their GP.”

Supporting general practice

SEMPHN supports practices through a dedicated Provider Support Team, offering tailored assistance in areas including accreditation guidance, quality improvement, workforce support, access to grants and peer mentoring.

Michele Frederiks, PSO, said the story highlights the value of practices investing in their teams.

“We’re always happy to celebrate practices that support their workforce to grow. Models like this demonstrate how general practice can strengthen capacity, improve access to care and continue to meet the needs of their communities.”

Building on this approach, SEMPHN is also supporting general practices through its Multidisciplinary Team program , which provides funding to help practices strengthen team-based care through a variety of multidisciplinary professionals. Registered and Enrolled Nurses are a core component of this program, helping to deliver a range of clinical and preventative services across participating practices, improving access for patients and reducing pressure on acute and chronic services.

Looking ahead

Nicole encourages other practice nurses who enjoy advanced clinical work to consider the Nurse Practitioner pathway.

“It’s not an easy path, but it is a rewarding one,” she said. “Staying patient-focused and remembering why you started the journey really helps.”

New regulatory guidance for allied health professionals in aged care

Wed, 28 Jan 2026 23:12:25 GMT

Updated guidance for allied health professionals working in aged care is now available

There is a new regulatory model for delivering government-funded aged care services in Australia, effective from January 2026. The new Act encourages allied health professionals to understand their service delivery under the new regulations, as they play a crucial role in enhancing the wellbeing of older individuals in aged care settings.

The new regulatory model outlines the responsibilities of aged care providers under the Aged Care Act 2024. It introduces universal registration for providers across all aged care programs, emphasises more protections for older people, recognises excellence for service delivery through longer registration periods and implements whistle-blower protections to identify misconduct.

The new Act allows individuals and partnerships to apply as registered providers for the first time and introduces new definitions for aged care providers and workers. Approved providers are now referred to as registered providers and associated providers are subcontractors delivering funded services on behalf of registered providers.

The previous Aged Care Quality Standards have been enhanced to improve outcomes for older people, setting clear expectations for quality care delivery. Registered providers delivering allied health services will be audited against these standards.

Free Anger Management for Women Program

Wed, 21 Jan 2026 02:50:40 GMT

Relationship Matters is running a free program for women experiencing challenges with anger management.

The six-week, small online group program is designed for women who:

Experience mild to moderate mental health issues
Want to understand the role of anger in their lives and express emotions in healthier ways
Can attend all six, two-hour, online sessions (held weekly)
Have access to a computer or tablet with a camera, microphone, headphones, a stable internet connection and a private space to attend online
Live, work or study within the South Eastern Melbourne PHN area
Subject to a 50-minute telehealth intake appointment.

This program is not suitable for people with severe mental health conditions.

Session details:

Date and Time: 25th February – 1st April, every Wednesday, 12:30pm – 2:30pm (six-week group)

Location: Online

To register, call our Access & Referral team at 1800 862 363.

Farewelling Florence and looking ahead to the next phase of digital care

Tue, 20 Jan 2026 04:40:47 GMT

Acknowledging a decade of digital health impact as SEMPHN prepares for what’s next

South Eastern Melbourne Primary Health Network (SEMPHN) will be saying farewell to the Florence clinician-led text messaging service from 31 March 2026, as we continue to explore digital health innovation.

Florence is a persona-based, automated SMS service that has helped clinicians beyond the consultation room. Since SEMPHN transitioned from Nellie to Florence in 2024, 2,481 patients have been enrolled on Florence, building on the 8,090 patients supported by Nellie during her lifetime. Together, Nellie and Florence have supported around 10,500 patients across south east Melbourne over the past decade, helping people stay connected to care between visits. We thank Generated Health for their long-standing partnership in bringing this solution to our region.

As technology and care needs evolve, SEMPHN is exploring new digital care solutions that build on the strengths of Florence while offering new capabilities to support clinicians and improve outcomes for patients.

Florence will remain available until 31 March 2026, with protocols gradually phased out during this time to ensure a smooth transition for practices and patients. Clinicians and patients can continue to use Florence until this date, and we encourage practices to download any necessary patient data and prepare for the transition.

This change supports SEMPHN’s broader digital health strategy to ensure people in south east Melbourne can access contemporary, effective and sustainable primary care tools.

What Florence users need to do now

You can continue using Florence until access ends.

Begin downloading patient data from Florence and saving it to the relevant clinical records.

Walkthroughs (available on Florence Basecamp):

Download a report (Graphs tab)
Download a report (History tab)

If you have any questions or need support, please contact florence@semphn.org.au or the Digital Health team on (03) 8514 4460.

Bulk Billing Practice Incentive Program payments

Sun, 18 Jan 2026 23:47:28 GMT

Managing Bulk Billing Practice Incentive Program (BBPIP) participation is now easier with Services Australia’s eligibility assessments.

General Practices participating in BBPIP are encouraged to login to Health Professional Online Services (HPOS) to check that all doctors are linked and have current bank details added to BBPIP to ensure timely payment. Each GP at your practice must login to Provider Digital Services (PRODA) individually to add bank account details for BBPIP (see Adding provider bank account details for BBPIP for step-by-step instructions).

GPs can enter their banking details up to one year after their payment was due, however they will not receive BBPIP payments until they do so . For this reason, and because the first BBPIP payment will be made in January 2026, we suggest that GPs enter their banking details as soon as possible . Once a provider adds their bank account details BBPIP payments will be processed and paid by Services Australia within a few business days and will appear in their bank account once processed by their bank.

Through HPOS, practices and providers participating in BBPIP can use:

Forecast assessment to check eligibility requirements, monitor bulk billing percentages, and estimate practice payments at any point in the quarter
Final assessment to confirm if requirements for BBPIP payments have been met and view the final payment after the end of the quarter.

If your practice is registered and meets BBPIP program requirements, your first BBPIP payment will be made in January 2026.

To ensure smooth payment, practices should:

Check the registration start date
Provide bank details for the practice and all linked providers for BBPIP
Keep accreditation up to date
Link all providers with separate provider numbers for each site.

Bulk Billing Practice Incentive Program resource

The following Services Australia resource ( MYMEDM05-MyMedicare – Bulk Billing Practice Incentive Program (BBPIP) ) includes detailed screenshots of the forecast tool for your reference on slides 5 – 10 (click on the ‘Forecast Assessment’ or ‘Final Assessment’ button).

The forecast assessment will provide a point-in-time assessment of your payment eligibility for the current period, based on available data from the time the assessment was run. Note that practices can only run one forecast assessment per day.

Use your forecast or final assessment (see slide 7 ) to:

Confirm that all your providers have bank account details added

If any provider bank details are missing, you can identify those providers using the ‘providers’ tab ( see slide 8 )
Each doctor must log in to PRODA as an individual to update their bank account details for BBPIP. If a GP delivers services across multiple locations, they must nominate bank details at each BBPIP participating practice location. Please refer to Services Australia resource Adding provider bank account details for BBPIP for step-by-step instructions for providers.

Check your BBPIP Registration Date is correct.

Check the ‘Days counted for payment’ ( see slide 8 )
Practices may backdate BBPIP registration (to as early as 1 November 2025), so long as they were bulk billing all eligible services from this date.

For more information, visit health.gov.au/BBPIP .

Support for vulnerable Australians seeking access to aged care services extended

Thu, 15 Jan 2026 00:41:03 GMT

Care finder, a free service designed to help vulnerable older people who have limited supports, has been extended for another 3 years.

Care finder assists individuals in navigating and accessing support services within their community, helping clients to understand available aged care services, arrange assessments, and find and choose the right services. The service also assists individuals in accessing other community supports.

Following re-funding, we conducted a rigorous open tender process in October 2025.

The following providers will be delivering care finder across the following south east Melbourne local government areas (LGAs) from 1 April 2026 :

Inner South LGA Cluster (Bayside, Port Phillip, Glen Eira, Stonnington and Kingston):
Bayside City Council
Better Health Network
Outer South LGA Cluster (Greater Dandenong, Casey and Cardinia):
Better Place Australia
Each
Mentis Assist
Peninsula LGA Cluster (Frankston and Mornington Peninsula):
Each
Housing for the Aged Action Group

We'll be working closely with current and new care finder providers to transition clients over the coming weeks where required.

Thank you to all the organisations who have contributed to the success and effectiveness of care finder to date. These organisations have supported at least 1,800 south east Melbourne residents since the program’s launch. You can learn more about the impact care finder partner organisations have made for vulnerable older people in our 2024–25 annual report .

Care finder is currently funded until 30 June 2029 .

Extended hours in general practice in selected LGAs

Mon, 12 Jan 2026 22:25:55 GMT

SEMPHN is pleased to announce that 11 general practices across the Local Government Areas (LGAs) of Frankston, Casey, Cardinia, Mornington Peninsula and Greater Dandenong will be extending their opening hours to provide face-to-face on-site services in the after hours period.

SEMPHN's December 2023 Health Needs Assessment highlighted that limited access to after hours primary care may lead to an increase in non-urgent emergency department visits, causing overcrowding and higher health system expenses. After hours primary care is accessible and effective primary health care for people whose health condition cannot wait for treatment until regular primary health care services are next available.

After hours period for this activity is defined as:

Thursday and Friday after 6pm
Saturday after 12pm
Sundays and public holidays

The successful general practices are:

St Mary Medical Centre
Pakenham Medical Clinic
Stud Road Medical Centre
Hastings Family Medical Centre
Duff Street Medical Centre
Trident Medical Centre
Baxter Medical & Dental
Keysborough Superclinic
Our Medical Home Cranbourne (allied health only)
Seaford Beach Family Clinic
St Germain Superclinic (since Nov 2024)

Selected practices have recruited allied health professionals and/or registered nurse/s to support the delivery of services in the after hours period:

St Mary Medical Centre
Pakenham Medical Clinic
Stud Road Medical Centre
Keysborough Superclinic
Our Medical Cranbourne
Seaford Beach Family Clinic

This program is funded from 17 November 2025 until 30 June 2026.

Medicare Mental Health

Mon, 12 Jan 2026 00:30:36 GMT

The Medicare Mental Health phone service provides free mental health, social and emotional wellbeing support for anyone in Australia.

Medicare Mental Health is accessible nationally, and designed for people to find the right mental health, and alcohol and other drug supports for their individual needs, without needing an appointment or referral.

Medicare Mental Health is here to make it easier for GPs and other health professionals when you are unsure of what service to refer your patient to.

Medicare Mental Health provides:

A mental health assessment and service navigation phone service, from 8.30 – 5pm Monday to Friday (excluding public holidays).
Access to a range of options based on patient choice, affordability, and clinical need.
Streamlined referrals onward to the most appropriate service.
Feedback to the referrer regarding outcome.

Patients can find support that is right for their needs by:

• Going to medicarementalhealth.gov.au

• Calling Medicare Mental Health on 1800 595 212 (between 8:30am and 5pm weekdays, except public holidays)

• Visiting their local Head to Health Clinic (children and adults)

• Visiting the Children’s Health and Wellbeing Local (Medicare Mental Health Kids Hub) (children only)

Enhanced specialised care for endometriosis and pelvic pain

Mon, 05 Jan 2026 21:15:17 GMT

South Eastern Melbourne Primary Health Network (SEMPHN) is pleased to announce a new Endometriosis and Pelvic Pain Clinic (EPPC) will be established in south east Melbourne.

Dandenong Superclinic will deliver the EPPC, providing specialist health services for women and girls in the region.

The new clinic is one of 11 EPPCs the Australian Department of Health, Disability and Ageing has announced across Australia , expanding access to specialised care for women and girls living in the regions and outer suburbs. While the clinic is located in Greater Dandenong, it will accept patients from other areas.

Endometriosis affects at least 1 in 7 Australian women, often causing chronic pain and fertility issues. Pelvic pain is similarly complex and debilitating, with broader social and economic impacts.

The new clinic will enhance specialised care for women and girls in south east Melbourne by providing:

access to additional in-clinic specialist health services
patient-centred care through a collaborative multidisciplinary approach including gynaecologists, physiotherapists, dietitians, and endocrinologists
streamlined referral pathways to specialist care
enhanced workforce capacity and expertise in women’s health
consumer education resources and self-management tools (for example, digital platforms and peer support networks).

The clinic is funded until 30 June 2028 .

Four new Medicare Urgent Care Clinics now open across south east Melbourne

Mon, 05 Jan 2026 00:52:31 GMT

New clinics strengthen access to urgent, GP-led care as SEMPHN welcomes four additional Medicare UCCs.

South Eastern Melbourne Primary Health Network (SEMPHN) is pleased to announce that four new Medicare Urgent Care Clinics (UCCs) are now open and providing care to communities in Carnegie, Sandringham, Somerville and Pakenham. The clinics commenced operation from 15 December 2025 and form part of the Australian Government’s expansion of the Medicare UCC program, which has delivered 50 new clinics across Australia, including 12 in Victoria.

The new sites build on the success of SEMPHN’s four existing Medicare UCCs in Prahran, Dandenong, Narre Warren and Frankston. Across these clinics, demand has been strong from young families and young adults, with the highest-visiting age groups ranging from 0–5 years to 21–30 years.

SEMPHN CEO Quinn Pawson said the expansion builds on strong and sustained community demand for urgent care services across south east Melbourne.

“Since opening our first Medicare Urgent Care Clinics in 2022, more than 172,000 people have accessed care through our four existing clinics,” Mr Pawson said. “That level of uptake clearly shows how valued these services are by the community and the important role they play in the local health system.”

Voluntary patient experience surveys from the four established clinics highlight the impact of the services. One patient in Prahran said, “I felt seen and heard. The wait time was short, and the staff were excellent. This is a great service.” Another patient at Dandenong shared, “I was seen very quickly and involved in my diagnosis. The nurse and doctor were friendly and caring, and the service was thorough.”

Surveys also show that without the option of a Medicare UCC, many patients would have sought care through a hospital emergency department (ED). At Narre Warren, for example, 66% of survey respondents said they would have attended a local ED if the clinic wasn’t available, while at Prahran and Dandenong, more than 50% reported the same. Others indicated they would have delayed care or attempted to see a GP, with up to 44% saying they would have attended a local general practice instead.

Mr Pawson said the model is also strongly supported by general practitioners working within the clinics and the broader primary care sector.

“GPs working in Medicare UCCs consistently tell us they value the opportunity to provide urgent, but not life-threatening care in a well-supported environment,” he said. “At the same time, local practices value knowing their patients have access to timely, high-quality care when they are unable to see them, particularly after hours or at short notice.”

He said the opening of four additional clinics further strengthens the region’s urgent care capacity.

“With eight Medicare UCCs now operating across south east Melbourne, more people can receive the right care, sooner, and closer to home,” Mr Pawson said. “This supports emergency departments to focus on critical care while strengthening the connection between urgent care services and general practice.”

Medicare UCCs provide assessment and treatment for urgent but non-emergency conditions such as minor fractures, sprains, cuts, burns and mild infections. All attendances are fully bulk-billed, and clinics are staffed by GPs, nurses and other qualified clinicians with access to imaging and pathology services.

The early response to the new clinics has been positive, complementing SEMPHN’s ongoing work to strengthen primary care access across south east Melbourne.

For more information about Medicare Urgent Care Clinics, visit our Medicare Urgent Care Clinics page.

This launch of these new Medicare Urgent Care Clinics is supported by funding from South Eastern Melbourne Primary Health Network through the Australian Government’s PHN Program.

Read the full media release from the Australian Government here .

First Bulk Billing Practice Incentive Program incentive payment coming January 2026

Sun, 04 Jan 2026 22:00:02 GMT

If your practice is registered and meets Bulk Billing Practice Incentive Program (BBPIP) requirements, you will receive your first incentive payment in January 2026.

Make the most of your participation and ensure smooth payment by:

Checking your registration start date.
Providing bank details for the practice and all linked providers for BBPIP, even if you previously provided bank account details for other programs.
Keeping accreditation up to date.
Linking all providers with separate provider numbers for each site.

For more information:

For support on MyMedicare , please contact your Provider Support Officer or email providersupport@semphn.org.au

PHN Cooperative welcomes review recommendations to strengthen Primary Health Networks and mental health care

Thu, 18 Dec 2025 00:37:52 GMT

The PHN Cooperative today welcomed the findings and recommendations of the Department of Health, Disability and Ageing’s Review of the PHN Business Model and Mental Health Flexible Funding Stream , conducted by Boston Consulting Group.

The review confirms the critical role of Primary Health Networks (PHNs) in commissioning locally responsive, high quality primary health care and highlights opportunities to strengthen governance, streamline funding, and enhance performance measurement.

“PHNs are proud of the impact we have achieved in communities across Australia. This review provides a clear pathway to build confidence, reduce administrative burden, and ensure our focus remains on delivering better health outcomes,” PHN Cooperative Spokesperson Matt Jones said.

Key recommendations embraced by the PHN Cooperative

Clarifying accountability: Reinforcing PHNs’ role as trusted partners of the Commonwealth, accountable for improving local primary care.
Minimum governance and engagement standards: Ensuring consistent, transparent practices across all PHNs and supporting the PHN Cooperative.
Meaningful performance assessment: Standardised reporting and a new department Quality Improvement team to drive continuous improvement.
Streamlined funding processes: Moving to longer term rolling grants, reducing prescriptive schedules, and accelerating disbursement. This addresses a key issue that PHNs raised during the review to improve service stability and provider confidence that ultimately leads to improved consumer outcomes.
Mental Health Flexible Funding Stream reforms: Consolidating funding into a single stream, empowering PHNs to commission, coordinate, and build capacity in line with local Needs Assessments.

Commitment to communities

The PHN Cooperative recognises that these improvements to the program will enable PHNs to better align services with local needs, reduce fragmentation across the care continuum, and strengthen collaboration with primary health care professionals and other service providers, Local Hospital Networks, states, and territories.

By embracing these recommendations, PHNs will be positioned to deliver more responsive, integrated, and equitable care—particularly in mental health, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health, aged care, and population health.

Looking ahead

PHNs stand ready to work with government, providers, and communities to ensure the reforms deliver sustained improvements.

“This is a pivotal moment. By simplifying processes and reinforcing trust, we can unlock more time, resources, and energy for what matters most - supporting healthier communities across Australia,” said Mr Jones.

View the report
Download the media release (PDF)

This media release is being shared on behalf of the PHN Cooperative. The PHN Cooperative is a collaborative platform created by PHN CEOs in 2018 to support the consistency, co-ordination and build capacity of the PHN Network.

Check your eligibility and forecast Bulk Billing Practice Incentive Program payments

Tue, 16 Dec 2025 04:35:39 GMT

Managing Bulk Billing Practice Incentive Program (BBPIP) participation is now easier with Services Australia’s eligibility assessments.

Practices and providers can use:

Forecast assessments to check eligibility requirements, monitor bulk billing percentages, and estimate practice payments at any point in the quarter.
Final assessments to confirm if requirements for BBPIP payments have been met, and view the final payment after the end of the quarter.

If a practice is registered and meets program requirements, its first BBPIP incentive payment will be made in January 2026.

To ensure smooth payment, practices should:

Check the registration start date.
Provide bank details for the practice and all linked providers for BBPIP.
Keep accreditation up to date.
Link all providers with separate provider numbers for each site.

For more information:

For support on MyMedicare , please contact your Provider Support Officer or email providersupport@semphn.org.au

Learn about SEMPHN’s impact in our 2024–25 annual report

Fri, 05 Dec 2025 03:06:08 GMT

We’re pleased to announce SEMPHN’s 2024–25 annual report, Our Impact: Report to the Community, is now available to read online.

SEMPHN’s vision is to create opportunities for people in south east Melbourne to live their healthiest lives. Our report showcases how health services and community programs have created positive health outcomes for individuals and communities in our catchment.

This report covers the second year of our 5-year Path to Impact strategy and marks the end of SEMPHN’s first decade of operation. It features stories and initiatives centering on the 7 priority areas set by the Australian Government for primary health networks:

mental health
First Nations health
population health
health workforce
digital health
aged care
alcohol and other drugs.

Our impact over the past 12 months and SEMPHN’s work across the sector would not be possible without the involvement of general practices, urgent care clinics, allied health providers, pharmacists, local hospital networks, and community members with lived experience contributing to service design and delivery.

Thank you to all our partners, providers, and colleagues for working with us. We look forward to continuing to collaborate throughout this year and into the future.

We encourage you to share this report with your colleagues.

my health app - Reminder for patients

Wed, 03 Dec 2025 03:44:39 GMT

Since the publication of this article, my health app has been renamed 1800MEDICARE.

As the festive season approaches, it is a timely reminder of the benefits of the my health app and promoting it to your patients.

With patients travelling over the summer months, having access to their medical records, electronic prescriptions and Active Script Lists that have been uploaded to their My Health Record will help them if an emergency arises.

It’s fast, easy, and secure - and they can access and share it all from the palm of their hand.

Consider displaying a poster in your waiting room, with details of how to download the my health app (now renamed 1800MEDICARE).

Palliative care resources for the holiday period

Sun, 30 Nov 2025 22:47:18 GMT

In the lead up to the holiday period, supporting patients and carers in palliative care is crucial.

The Palliative Care Access to Core Medicines project aims to support palliative care in the community and assists people who wish to die at home through timely access to essential medicines. This minimises suffering associated with emergent end-of-life symptoms.

For Clinics: The SEMPHN webpage has a map of pharmacists in your area who stock medications often used at end-of-life: Over 100 pharmacies in the south-east region of Melbourne have committed to stocking these medications, making access to medications easier for your patients.

For Pharmacists: Pharmacists who wish to join the list can fill out the Letter of Intent . Pharmacists can also access a free online training program created by the Pharmaceutical Society of Australia. The ASPIRE program was developed to upskill pharmacists with the foundation knowledge and skills needed to provide palliative care support to their patients through quality use of medicines.

The Victorian Palliative Care Advice Service (PCAS) is for everyone everywhere in Victoria, and can also help to support patients and carers over the holiday period. PCAS offers free, confidential advice for all Victorians seeking information about life-limiting illness, palliative care or end-of-life care. If you are a doctor, nurse, healthcare worker or provider we can assist with symptom management, prescribing and decision-making.

Helping homebound individuals access COVID-19 vaccinations

Wed, 26 Nov 2025 19:17:34 GMT

SEMPHN’s Vulnerable Peoples Homebound Vaccination Program, which helps individuals who cannot leave home access COVID-19 vaccinations, has been extended to 30 June 2026.

To be eligible for the program, the individual must: 

be homebound or have a genuine need for an at-home vaccination 
be eligible for a COVID-19 vaccination (see eligibility criteria ).

Anyone can request a vaccination for an eligible individual using the Vulnerable Peoples Homebound Vaccinations Referral Form , including health professionals, carers and family members. Individuals can also complete the form to request vaccination for themselves.

Once the referral has been received, a vaccination provider will contact the homebound person (or nominated contact person) to schedule a time for the in-reach home visit. 

If you have any questions, email COVIDHomebound@semphn.org.au

Further resources can also be found on our Immunisation and COVID-19 webpages.

Call to consider measles vaccination in all patients aged 20-59

Wed, 26 Nov 2025 03:01:26 GMT

The South East Public Health Unit is urging GPs to proactively consider measles vaccination for all patients aged 20-59 without documented evidence of two doses on AIR.

This follows multiple measles cases across Australia in recent weeks, with cases of local transmission and cases who acquired infection during travel overseas, where large outbreaks are occurring.

In Victoria, free routine and catch-up MMR vaccines are funded for children aged 6-11 months who have planned overseas travel and all people born during or since 1966 without evidence of receiving two documented doses of valid measles containing vaccine. This includes patients without a Medicare card.

It is likely Australian-born patients aged 33-59 have received only one dose. SEPHU recommends giving MMR rather than doing serology first to check immunity.

You can orde r state-funded MMR vaccine thro ugh the standard Onelink online portal. If ordering large amounts, please add ‘Enhanced measles adult program’ to the order note. Please contact sephu.trace@monashhealth.org fo r further information.

Can you help during a state emergency?

Wed, 19 Nov 2025 02:29:12 GMT

SEMPHN is currently seeking primary care health professionals, practices, and organisations willing to volunteer their time in the event of an emergency.

During an emergency, the Victorian Department of Health has a number of responsibilities as outlined in the State Emergency Management Plan.

The Plan covers a wide range of events, including fire, flood, heatwaves, epidemic, wide-scale food poisoning, and train or plane accident.

To support the Plan, Primary Health Networks assist with preparedness, response, and recovery, so that local communities have the best primary health available following an emergency .

SEMPHN is updating its list of primary health professionals, general practices, and pharmacies willing to respond in an emergency.

Examples of primary health emergency responses:

Taking on additional patients for a short period of time.
Staffing a field clinic where local infrastructure is not available.
Caring for people affected by an emergency either locally or, if required, further afield.

In the event of an emergency , SEMPHN may send out an initial SMS message to participants asking for a response, so we know the potential capacity of the regional response.

Depending on the context of the emergency, the SMS will be sent across the catchment or within a localised area. The work is most likely to be volunteer-based.

Information gathered will be recorded in a secure, limited-access area of our database for the purposes of the emergency response only and you can opt out at any time by contacting us.

If you would like to participate, fill out this form to register.

MyMedicare Conversations Starters resource available

Tue, 18 Nov 2025 04:43:00 GMT

A resource is now available to assist general practice staff in having conversations with patients about MyMedicare.

The resource is designed to help staff – including general practitioners, nurses, Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander health practitioners, practice managers and admin team members – to consistently communicate with patients about:

MyMedicare
registering in MyMedicare
what registering with that particular practice for MyMedicare may mean for their GP chronic condition management plans and mental health treatment plans.

The resource includes talking points for practice staff who are addressing patients who go to multiple general practices or who go to multiple sites of the same general practice.

Practice staff are encouraged to keep the resource at their desks as a prompt for verbal conversations with patients either in person or over the phone.

For more information about MyMedicare, contact your Provider Support Officer or visit SEMPHN’s dedicated MyMedicare page .

General Practice in Aged Care Incentive (GPACI) update – Payment delay, eligibility changes, new resource

Wed, 12 Nov 2025 22:06:34 GMT

The GPACI payment due at the end of October was delayed, 2 eligibility changes have been made to the program’s guidelines, and a new education resource for health professionals is available.

October payment update

Practices may have noticed that the 1 July – 30 September 2025 quarter payment due by the end of October was delayed. The Australian Department of Disability, Health and Ageing has advised that payments are expected to be made in mid-November.

The delay relates to the recent removal of the 12-month exclusion period from the program’s guidelines, which is detailed below.

Updated GPACI guidelines

In response to stakeholder feedback, the Department has updated the GPACI guidelines to remove barriers to participating in the program, changing the guidelines’ appearance and making 2 eligibility changes.

There are no other policy changes in the new guidelines.

Eligibility – Bulk Billing Practice Incentive Program (BBPIP) accreditation exclusion

Practices that receive a BBPI accreditation exemption are not eligible to participate in the GPACI program.

Practices that wish to participate in the GPACI program are required to meet MyMedicare accreditation requirements set out in the MyMedicare Guidelines . This includes being covered by one of the MyMedicare accreditation exemptions for non-accredited practices who deliver general practice services entirely through mobile and outreach models.

12-month exclusion period removed

The Department has removed the exclusion period for responsible providers who did not meet the 12-month care plan eligibility requirements.

If a patient did not receive 2 eligible care planning services by the end of their 12-month period and a care planning service was not subsequently provided in the next quarter, the practice and provider would be ineligible for GPACI payments for that patient for the remainder of the patient’s new 12-month period. This requirement has been removed, and the exclusion period will no longer be enacted.

The delay to the October payments is to enable system changes to be implemented to ensure payments will be made as usual if the patient received their 2 regular services in their firth quarter, and to stop correspondence relating to the patient exclusion requirement.

Participating practices are required to continue providing the 10 eligible services comprising 2 care planning items and 8 regular visits each year (2 regular visits must be made in separate calendar months each quarter) to receive their quarterly GPACI payments, in addition to the Medicare Benefit Services and Department of Veterans Affairs rebates for their patients.

Download the new GPACI guidelines.

Accreditation reminder

Many practices registered for MyMedicare and the GPACI are currently ineligible due to lapsed accreditation. Practices must record and regularly update their accreditation status in the Organisation Register.

At the end of an accreditation period, practices must be re-accredited. If the practice participating in MyMedicare has not obtained accreditation or re-accreditation at the end of their accreditation period, the practice will be ineligible for MyMedicare and GPACI. Any GPACI services performed after accreditation has lapsed will not be eligible for payment.

New GPACI resource

The Department has also released a new education resource for health professionals: ‘Hints and tips to ensure you get paid correctly’. The resource emphasises the relationship between practice, patient and responsible provider. The GPACI assessment and reassessment process looks for this relationship. Anything that changes the relationship will impact current and past GPACI payments .

If patient details change, practices are advised to follow the steps outlined in the new resource and to make sure they do not delete previous responsible providers.

Download the ‘Hints and tips to ensure you get paid correctly’ resource.

For support on GPACI and MyMedicare, including if you need assistance in updating your accreditation record, please contact your Provider Support Officer or visit SEMPHN's dedicated MyMedicare page .

Supporting older people to access the new Support at Home program

Fri, 31 Oct 2025 05:27:00 GMT

Ahead of the changes to the Aged Care Act commencing on 1 November, the Department of Health, Disability and Aged Care have released new resources for General Practitioners , Nurse Practitioners and Allied Health Providers to inform how they can support older people to access the new Support at Home (SaH) program.

From 1 November Support at Home will replace the current Home Care Packages (HCP) program and Short-Term Restorative Care (STRC) programme. The Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP) will transition to SaH no earlier than 1 July 2027.

More detail can be found in the guidance linked below:

Support at Home includes a new End-of-Life pathway to support participants who have been diagnosed with 3 months or less to live and wish to remain at home, by providing more funding to access in-home aged care services.

A doctor or nurse practitioner must provide an assessment for the older person to access the End-of-Life pathway. Further details about the assessment required can be found in the fact sheet linked below:

End-of-Life Pathway – fact sheet for doctors and nurse practitioners

There are online training modules available to assist health professional understanding of the Support at Home program. The below links are the modules most relevant to general practice and other primary care providers:

Further information and resources about the Support at Home program can be found at:

Program supporting women with anger and strong emotions

Wed, 29 Oct 2025 04:35:07 GMT

Relationship Matters is offering a free Anger Management for Women program for women who want to feel more in control of their emotions, improve communication and respond to challenging situations in healthy ways.

Whether anger is impacting relationships, daily life or sense of self, this small, online group will provide a space for women to begin to understand their anger and develop healthier strategies for managing it.

Eligibility

Women who experience mild to moderate mental health issues
Women who want to better understand the role of anger in their lives and express emotions in healthier ways
You are able to attend all six, two-hour, online sessions (held weekly)
You have access to a computer or tablet with a camera, microphone, headphones, a stable internet connection and a private space to attend online.
Subject to a 50-minute telephone intake assessment.

This program is not suitable for people with severe or uncontrolled mental health conditions

Program details

Date & Time: Tuesdays from 11 November 2025 to 18 December 2025 (no session 2/12), 5:30 pm - 7:30 pm
Location: Online
Cost: Free

How to refer

Please contact our Access and Referral team on 1800 862 363 .

If you have any questions, please call Relationship Matters on 1300 543 396.

10 Year Impact Series: 2018-19 Population Health Highlights

Wed, 29 Oct 2025 03:50:25 GMT

2018-19 was a stand-out year for South Eastern Melbourne Primary Health network (SEMPHN), with practical ideas delivering important ways to help our community across south east Melbourne live healthier lives.

Some of these ideas included:

Early detection: a mobile clinic brought breast screening to 1,000 women who might otherwise have missed out.
Immunisation push: more than 1,500 free flu and whooping cough vaccines reached people at highest risk.
Community coverage: Greater Dandenong recorded 95.77% herd immunity for children aged 12-15 months.
Smarter after-hours care: one program averted more than 10,000 hospital admissions, saving $5.5 million, representing a 353% return on investment (ROI).
A second after-hours project prevented 12,000 emergency department visits, saving $6.2 million – a 379% ROI.
Cultural safety: 60 health professionals completed training accredited by the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners to strengthen care for First Nations people.

These results show how targeted investment, frontline partnerships and data-driven planning turn resources into measurable impact.

Upcoming MBS changes – Effective 1 November 2025

Wed, 29 Oct 2025 03:38:24 GMT

Changes to the Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS) will take effect from this Saturday, 1 November 2025. Below is an overview of what’s changing, key considerations for your practice, and helpful resources to support your preparation.

Bulk Billing Incentive Expansion

From November 1, the eligibility for bulk billing incentives (BBIs) will be expanded to include all Australians with a Medicare card. There is nothing you need to do to access the expanded incentives, and they are not linked to MyMedicare registration. You will have received information from your software vendor regarding any updates required to ensure incentives are applied correctly.

The value of MBS BBIs depends on the service provided and the location. Find out more about the Modified Monash Model location classification system and MBS BBIs at MBS Online .

Bulk Billing Practice Incentive Program (BBPIP)

The Bulk Billing Practice Incentive Program Guidelines have now been released.

From 1 November, practices can choose to participate in the new MyMedicare program BBPIP. Practices participating in BBPIP will receive an additional quarterly 12.5% incentive payment on MBS benefits paid from eligible services , split evenly between the GP and the practice.

Things you can do to prepare:

Discuss with your teams whether participating in this incentive is right for your practice and how to communicate this decision with your patients. Resources which might be useful for these conversations:
BBPIP calculator and user guide
BBPIP Practice Readiness Checklist
BBPIP Planning Kit for General Practice
RACGP resources (includes posters and scripts for on-hold messages, etc, to communicate with patients)
Register for MyMedicare and/or set up your organisation site record:
To access this incentive, your practice will need to be registered with MyMedicare. Find more information on how to do that here.
For non-accredited practices that are not already registered, a new exemption will be available on 1 November in the organisation register, which will allow you to participate in BBPIP only.
If you are registered, make sure all your GPs are linked to your organisation site record. Information on setting up your site record correctly can be found here.

Changes to Better Access initiative

From 1 November, changes will be made to the Better Access to Psychiatrists, Psychologists and General Practitioners through the Medicare Benefits Schedule (Better Access) initiative. These changes include the removal of mental health treatment plan (MHTP) reviews and mental health consultation items from the MBS.

An MBS user guide has been developed to assist with these changes and can be accessed here .

Changes to the face-to-face requirements for telehealth for MyMedicare enrolled patients

From November 1, patients will be able to access telehealth services, even if they have not seen their GP face-to-face in the previous 12 months if they are accessing the service through their MyMedicare registered practice.

This change recognises that higher quality care is achieved through telehealth when it is provided in the context of a continuous clinical relationship.

Further details can be found here .

Long-Acting Reversible Contraceptive changes

From 1 November 2025 , there will be an increase to MBS items for insertion and removal of Long Acting Reversible Contraceptives (LARC) and a newly introduced incentive item.

Further details can be found here .

This article was produced with support from Eastern Melbourne Primary Health Network.

New Better Access Mental Health MBS User Guide Now Available

Wed, 29 Oct 2025 03:34:13 GMT

SEMPHN has released a new resource to support your general practice to implement the changes to the Better Access initiative from 1 November 2025.

The Better Access Mental Health MBS User Guide is available here .

The purpose of this resource is to support general practices to effectively use dedicated Better Access Mental Health MBS items and time-tiered professional (general) attendance MBS items to deliver comprehensive, planned care for patients. Dedicated Better Access items remain in place to support mental health care, with these items being used to create new Mental Health Treatment Plans (MHTP); deliver focused psychological strategies including family carer participation services (where GPs and PMPs are recognized by the GPMHSC); and enable GPs and PMPs to participate in mental health case conferencing. Through the general attendance MBS items MBS benefits will continue to be available for the review of MHTPs, referral for mental health treatment services and ongoing support for people with an assessed mental disorder. The Better Access Mental Health MBS User Guide provides examples of how to use relevant MBS items to meet the requirements of the Better Access Initiative, including links to the MBS items and MBS Online explanatory notes.

For support on MyMedicare, GP Chronic Conditions Management, and quality improvement activities, please contact your provider support officer (PSO) or email providersupport@semphn.org.au .

More patients can now access After Hours care in South Eastern Melbourne

Thu, 23 Oct 2025 23:04:34 GMT

SEMPHN is pleased to announce that nine general practices in the Local Government Areas (LGAs) of Mornington Peninsula, Cardinia and Casey have been recommissioned to extend their opening hours, providing more face-to-face onsite services during the after-hours period.

After Hours primary care is accessible and effective primary health care for people whose health condition cannot wait for treatment until regular primary health care services are next available.

SEMPHN's December 2023 Needs Assessment highlighted that limited access to after-hours primary care may lead to an increase in non-urgent Emergency Department visits, causing overcrowding and higher health system expenses.

Congratulations to the following general practices:

St Germain Super Clinic
Serendib Medical Services
Cockatoo Family Medical Practice
Pakenham Family Health
Atticus Regional Medicentre - Hastings
Cranbourne Medical Clinic
Hallam Family Practice
The Peninsula Medical and Dental Clinic
Somerville Medical Centre

This program is funded until 30 June 2026.

New pregnancy care resources now available

Wed, 15 Oct 2025 02:23:38 GMT

The Australian Government releases a new set of resources to support and empower women to make informed choices and decisions throughout their pregnancy.

Every pregnancy is different, and there are different types of pregnancy care available for women and their babies.

To help explain the care women should receive during pregnancy, the Australian Government has developed a new set of resources designed to support and empower women to make informed choices and decisions throughout their pregnancy.

These resources include clear, easy-to-understand information, helpful checklists and suggested questions to ask their healthcare provider(s).

They are based on the Australian Pregnancy Care Guidelines –evidence-based, best practice guidelines that are regularly updated to reflect the latest evidence in pregnancy care.

Women can use these resources to discuss their own pregnancy care with the healthcare provider(s) and work together to decide what’s best.

Resources include:

Fact sheets
Types of Pregnancy Care
Pregnancy Timeline
Health Tests During Your Pregnancy
Common Conditions During Pregnancy
Brochures
Overview of pregnancy resources
Posters
Promoting pregnancy resources

The resources are available on the Department of Health, Disability and Ageing's website.

Upcoming Changes to Better Access Mental Health Program

Thu, 09 Oct 2025 03:49:39 GMT

From 1 November 2025, changes will be made to the Better Access to Psychiatrists, Psychologists and General Practitioners Initiative through the Medicare Benefits Schedule, subject to the passage of legislation.

Consistent with recommendations in the Better Access Evaluation published in 2022, the changes will:

Improve the Better Access initiative to better meet the needs of individuals and improve equity of access to mental health supports and services.
Support the holistic relationship between a patient and their healthcare provider, leading to improved patient outcomes.
Reduce the administrative burden and complexity for GPs and PMPs by providing greater flexibility by using time-tiered professional (general) attendance MBS items to review a Mental Health Treatment Plan (MHTP), refer a patient for mental health treatment and undertake general mental health consultations.

Overview of the changes

From 1 November 2025:

A Medicare benefit will be payable for MHTP preparation, referrals for treatment services and reviews of a MHTP when a patient has seen:
a GP or PMP at the general practice in which the patient is enrolled in MyMedicare, or
regardless of whether the patient is enrolled in MyMedicare, by the patient’s usual medical practitioner.
These requirements do not affect patients who have been referred via a Psychiatrist Assessment and Management Plan or by a direct referral from an eligible psychiatrist or eligible paediatrician.
GP and PMP MHTP review items (2712, 92114, 92126, 277, 92120, and 92132) and GP and PMP ongoing mental health consultation items (2713, 92115, 92127, 279, 92121 and 92133) will be removed from the MBS.
Further details can be viewed at MBS Online - Better Access changes from 1 November 2025 .

Key points:

Removal of the 12 review and mental health consultation items provides GPs and PMPs greater flexibility to use the most appropriate time-tiered professional (general) attendance item, reflecting the time spent with patients. This includes items for longer consultations and, where applicable, the triple bulk billing incentive to review MHTPs and deliver mental health care and support to patients.
Any MHTP referral dated prior to 1 November 2025 will remain valid until all treatment services specified in the referral (within the maximum session limit for the course of treatment) have been delivered to the patient.
The MyMedicare and usual medical practitioner requirements will also apply to GP/PMP telehealth items for MHTPs , with these services no longer exempt from the established clinical relationship rule. Further information on the GP MBS telehealth (video and phone) established clinical relationship criteria and exemptions will be available from 1 November 2025 in explanatory note AN.1.1 on MBS Online.
These changes do not affect focused psychological strategies, which can continue to be available to any patient from any eligible GP and eligible PMP who has the appropriate training recognised by the General Practice Mental Health Standards Collaboration.
Treatment services referred to under the Better Access Initiative are for patients who require at least a moderate level of mental health support. Information on other free or low-cost Commonwealth funded mental health treatment services can be found at Medicare Mental Health or contact SEMPHN's Access and Referral team for referral options in your region or to learn more about the Stepped Care Model.

If you need support, please contact your Provider Support Officer or email providersupport@semphn.org.au .

You can find more information about MyMedicare here .

Celebrating National Carers Week

Wed, 08 Oct 2025 22:20:36 GMT

National Carers Week (12 - 18 October 2025) provides a time to recognise, celebrate and raise awareness about the 3 million Australians who provide care to a family member or friend.

This year’s theme is, “You are, know, or will be one,” highlighting the widespread nature of caring – it affects virtually every person at some point in their lives.

What does being a carer mean?

Carers are people who provide unpaid care and support to family members and friends who have a disability, mental health condition, chronic condition, terminal illness, an alcohol or other drug issue or who are frail aged.

Anyone can become a carer at any time.

Tips to support carers:

The Carer Wellbeing Survey found that carers who had good access to support had healthy levels of wellbeing compared to those who had no or limited access to help.

Below are some suggestions on how you can help a carer:

Check-in regularly
Offer a break
Acknowledge and appreciate
Initiate support
Encourage self-care

SEMPHN offers a range of localised programs and resources to support carers in connecting their loved ones with care.

These include:

Explore all SEMPHN Services and Resources here .

Where can carers get support?

Carer Gateway provides information and advice on the supports available to carers across Australia, and has a great range of online resources to help promote carer wellbeing. To find out more and to access online support services, head to carergateway.gov.au .

10 Year Impact Series: Expanding Mental Health Support Across South East Melbourne

Wed, 08 Oct 2025 04:57:40 GMT

The next feature in our 10 Year Impact Series explores how mental health support has expanded across south east Melbourne, highlighting key initiatives and outcomes.

Back in 2017-18, data showed 40% of south east Melbourne residents—almost 300,000 people at the time—had mental health needs. Only half were seeking help. South Eastern Melbourne PHN (SEMPHN) responded with a $25 million investment and a new way of delivering care.

The Stepped Care Model now guides every referral, matching people to the most appropriate support and reducing wait times. SEMPHN’s Access and Referral hub coordinates all entries into commissioned mental health services, while Accessible Psychological Interventions (API) provides psychological intervention to give low-income earners free therapy close to home.

For residents with severe and complex conditions, Mental Health Integrated Complex Care (MHICC) provides wrap-around clinical and psychosocial support. We also worked with headspace Narre Warren and Frankston to pilot intensive youth programs, filling a critical gap for young people in distress.

This initiative—part of our 10 Year Impact Series—shows how targeted investment and local partnerships can turn data into better mental-health outcomes for the community.

Statewide Referral Criteria - new suite of paediatric ENT conditions

Wed, 08 Oct 2025 04:12:04 GMT

New statewide referral criteria for a range of children’s ear, nose and throat conditions come into effect from 1 November 2025 in all Victorian public hospitals.

Patients can be placed on a specialist clinic wait list when a referring GP provides information that shows the referral meets the new children’s ENT criteria.

The criteria identify the information that should be included in a referral to assess the referral and direct the patient to the best service available.

The Victorian Department of Health has developed and published statewide specialist referral criteria for a further seven children’s ENT conditions. The children’s ENT suite is among 17 suites of specialist referral criteria already in existence across Victoria.

GPs can visit health.vic.gov.au/statewide-referral-criteria to view the criteria.

Additional statewide criteria will be released for new speciality areas throughout 2026 .

Statewide Referral Criteria - new release for Dermatology conditions

Wed, 08 Oct 2025 03:57:11 GMT

New statewide referral criteria for a range of children and adult dermatology conditions come into effect from 1 November 2025 in all Victorian public hospitals.

Patients can be placed on a specialist clinic waitlist when a referring GP provides information that shows the referral meets the new children’s and adult dermatology criteria.

The criteria identify the information that should be included in a referral to assess the referral and direct the patient to the best service available.

The Victorian Department of Health has developed and published statewide specialist referral criteria for 11 adult and 12 child dermatology conditions. This suite is among 18 suites of specialist referral criteria already in existence across Victoria.

GPs can visit health.vic.gov.au/statewide-referral-criteria to view the criteria.

Additional statewide criteria will be released for new specialty areas throughout 2026.

[CLOSED] Tender: Help vulnerable Australians find aged care support and services

Fri, 03 Oct 2025 02:41:47 GMT

The South Eastern Melbourne Primary Health Network (SEMPHN) invites eligible organisations to submit tenders to deliver the care finder program.

The care finder program provides specialist and intensive assistance to help vulnerable and older people to find and connect with aged care services in their local area.

Background

The aged care system can be difficult to navigate, and some older Australians need extra support to access the services available to them. Following the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety (2018) inquiry, which recommended dedicated support for vulnerable groups, the national care finder program was launched in January 2023 as part of the Australian Government’s broader aged care reforms.

About the program

Care finder is a free service designed to help vulnerable and older people who have no one else to support them. The program assists individuals in navigating and accessing support services within their community.

The program helps people understand available aged care services, arrange assessments, and find and choose the right services. They also assist individuals in accessing other community supports.

Locations and funding

For the delivery of the care finder program, the SEMPHN catchment has been divided into three Local Government Area (LGA) clusters:

Each provider may apply for a maximum of two LGA clusters. Each provider can be awarded a maximum of two LGA clusters.

The maximum contract value (per successful provider) is as follows:

Inner South LGA Cluster: $1,834,063.34
Outer South LGA Cluster: $2,578,432.15
Peninsula LGA Cluster: $1,972,193.64

Applying for this tender

To be considered for this tender, applicants must:

Be a provider which currently provides services or delivers activities within the SEMPHN catchment.
Deliver the proposed services/activities within the geographical boundaries of SEMPHN and as described within the tender documents.
Be able to commence service delivery by no later than 1 April 2026.
be able to provide services to the entire care finder eligible client cohort as per the care finder Policy Guidance 2022.

Additional detailed eligibility is provided in the tender specifications.

All questions and tenders MUST be submitted via SEMPHN's eProcure by the dates below.

Key Dates

29 September 2025 : Tender opens
17 October 2025 (3 pm) : Closing date for questions via eProcure
24 October (3 pm) : Closing date for responses
27 & 28 November 2025 : Interviews with shortlisted respondents (if required)
1 January 2026: Contract commencement date
1 April 2026: Service commencement date
30 June 2029: Contract end date

Now available: MyMedicare posters and social tiles

Wed, 01 Oct 2025 05:53:34 GMT

General practices are encouraged to print or download the following MyMedicare posters and social media tiles to display and use in their practices communications.

Developed by the National MyMedicare PHN Implementation Program, the communications bundle is designed to help patients be more informed about the initiative.

MyMedicare implementation posters:

MyMedicare social media tiles

Launching ‘Your Eyes and 715 Health Check’ Flipchart

Wed, 01 Oct 2025 04:12:30 GMT

National data indicates that Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people experience vision loss at three times the rate of non-indigenous Australians. It is estimated that more than 90% of this vision loss is preventable or treatable, if picked up early.

To help address this gap, Minum Barreng: Indigenous Eye Health Unit , has launched a new health promotion flipchart, ‘Your Eyes and the 715 Health Check.’ Developed in collaboration with primary health care providers and community members, this simple and visual tool is designed to remind primary care staff and community that a basic eye check is a critical and mandatory component of the 715 Health Check. Promoting the eye health component within the 715 Health Check can also support the use of retinal photography for people with diabetes (MBS item 12325). Used in combination, these two Medicare items help ensure that both general vision checks and targeted retinal examinations are included in routine primary care.

The flipchart can be used in a range of settings, including clinic consultations, and outlines what the eye check involves:

Asking about vision changes or eye problems
Testing vision using a chart
Examining the front and back of the eye
Referring for specialist care when needed

It also includes culturally appropriate images and plain language explanations of the main eye conditions.

The flipchart, and other eye health promotion resources supporting community awareness of the main eye conditions affecting First Nations people, can be ordered for FREE via the ‘Order Resources’ section on the Minum Barreng health promotion webpage .

S EMPHN commissions Better Health Network and Dandenong & District Aborigines Co-operative Ltd to deliver the Integrated Team Care program across south east Melbourne. The program provides Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people with complex chronic health conditions with support to manage their conditions. More information about this program can be found here.

SEMPHN’s position statement on a Victorian Treaty

Wed, 24 Sep 2025 20:00:00 GMT

For eight years, Victoria has led the way in establishing structures so that the Victorian Government and democratically elected First Peoples’ Assembly of Victoria can negotiate Treaty/Treaties. Direct Treaty negotiations have now concluded, and the Treaty is now with the Victorian Parliament.

As an organisation which supports services for First Nations, we know that the community continues to experience:

the lowest rates of home ownership and worst rates of homelessness
the poorest health and life expectancy
the worst rates of problem gambling and drug dependence; and
the world’s highest incarceration rates.

Treaty is an important step towards self-determination for First Nations. First Nations communities know best that:

Creating local solutions will change lives. Treaty will bring about real, meaningful change for Aboriginal Victorians and improve their health and wellbeing.
Treaty is an opportunity for diverse voices to collectively build a more inclusive State where all Victorians can thrive.

As a First Nations ally, SEMPHN strongly supports the Victorian Treaty negotiations, as we did the Voice to Parliament in 2023. We stand with the Victorian Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation (VACCHO) and the First Peoples’ Assembly of Victoria in their commitment to Treaty.

As allies, SEMPHN will continue to support First Nations People and have actively signed up as allies of the First Peoples’ Assembly of Victoria and openly continue to advocate for Treaty, respect, culture and leadership . You can do the same here , individually if you so choose.

Written by SEMPHN Clinical and Community Council First Nations’ members, Dr Luke Martin and Brenda McDermott, on behalf of SEMPHN.

Fly high with Puffin for your GPACI reporting

Tue, 23 Sep 2025 04:20:05 GMT

General Practices have a new way to manage and report on visits to patients in aged care with the release of the Puffin tool, developed specifically to support the General Practice in Aged Care Incentive (GPACI).

Puffin is the latest addition to the POLAR data extraction and analysis tool offering an interactive dashboard to help track and report on services offered to residents of aged care homes. It also offers methods for GPs to monitor the status of selected vaccinations for older patients.

Puffin has been developed in direct response to feedback from GPs and practices so they can more easily and effectively implement GPACI as part of their work in providing continuity of care to people living in Residential Aged Care Homes.

GPACI has been part of the Australian Government’s MyMedicare program since 1 July to strengthen and formalise relationships between aged care home residents and their general practitioner or general practice.

POLAR developer Outcome Health has tailored Puffin for GPs and practices to use when providing consultations and care planning for their aged care home patients, in turn, ensuring they meet their reporting requirements alongside providing optimum patient care.

GPs or practices previously cautious about participating in GPACI due to questions around administrative requirements, are welcome to contact our Provider Support Team at providersupport@semphn.org.au to discuss how we can help them. This could include using Puffin or other solutions for assisting with introducing and managing GPACI.

Puffin is now a standard tool when registering with the POLAR platform and is already available for no extra cost to all current users of POLAR. Puffin is currently integrates with Best Practice and Medical Director and will soon be available to ZedMed users.

For more details, download the Introduction to Puffin flyer and the How to use Puffin in your General Practice resource here.

New Bulk Billing Incentives Calculator released for practices and GPs

Tue, 23 Sep 2025 01:04:09 GMT

Changes to bulk billing incentives from 1 November 2025 will expand the eligibility of bulk billing incentives to all Australians with a Medicare card.

Currently, general practitioners (GPs) only receive Medicare bulk billing incentives if they bulk bill children under 16 years old and Commonwealth concession card holders.

Additionally, from 1 November 2025, practices can choose to register and participate in the Bulk Billing Practice Incentive Program (BBPIP) and will equally share in the additional incentive payment of 12.5% of MBS billings for eligible services .

A new calculator has been released for general practice owners, managers and individual general practitioners to estimate annual earnings from Medicare bulk billing incentives (BBIs) and the new Bulk Billing Practice Incentive Program (BBPIP), starting 1 November 2025. Access to the Bulk Billing Incentives Calculator can be obtained here .

A Bulk Billing Incentives Calculator User Guide is also available explaining how to use the calculator.

The calculator uses MBS information about BBPIP MBS eligible services only. It uses data to build an average annual provider and practice payment estimate for BBPIP MBS eligible services for your practice type and location. The payment model can be used as a baseline to estimate if you will benefit from joining BBPIP.

To get the most accurate estimate, have these details handy before you commence using the calculator:

Select your role as a general practitioner (GP) or a practice manager (or equivalent)
Practice location by Modified Monash Model (MMM) classification
Percentage of billings paid to the practice
Billing type - bulk billing only , mixed billing or private billing
Number of BBPIP MBS eligible services provided per year
Percentage of BBPIP MBS eligible services provided to concession card holders or children under 16 years old
Your bulk billing rates , average privately billed fees and annual proportion of BBPIP MBS eligible service types , including:
Short (level A)
Standard (level B)
Long (level C)
Extended/Prolonged (level D/E)
Management plans and reviews
Other BBPIP MBS eligible services

These details can be found in your practice management system. Please refer to the User Guide for step-by-step instructions to support use of the calculator.

Additional resources including fact sheets and videos are available at Strengthening Medicare with more bulk billing resources | Australian Government Department of Health, Disability and Ageing .

An Expression of Interest (EOI) form is also available here for providers that intend to join the Bulk Billing Practice Incentive Program. Practices that complete the EOI form will be mailed communications material for their practice to display from 1 November when they register for BBPIP.

Further details and instructions on how to register in BBPIP will be provided later this year, and registration for BBPIP will be available from 1 November 2025.

To participate in BBPIP, practices will need to be registered for MyMedicare. Instructions on how to register for MyMedicare are available on the Services Australia Health Professional Education Resources website.

Participation in BBPIP is voluntary for practices. If a practice chooses to participate, all general practitioners at that practice must bulk bill all eligible services . For practices continuing to operate a mixed billing model, the RACGP has materials for practices to help them plan and communicate their billing arrangements to patients.

For practice support, please contact your Provider Support Officer or email providersupport@semphn.org.au .

My Way to Wellbeing Group

Wed, 17 Sep 2025 02:09:38 GMT

Learn healthy ways to manage life’s challenges and cope with sadness, worry and anxiety.

My Way to Wellbeing is a free six-week group program that aims to empower participants with evidence-based strategies that support mental health and enrich their wellbeing.

Facilitated by mental health professionals, the group is a safe space for members to learn and practice together, helping individuals to find and implement what works for them.

These groups aim to build participant’s understanding of:

What depression is and ways to manage depressive feelings
What anxiety is and ways to manage anxious feelings
Mental health and mental illness
How our emotions and communication styles can impact our relationships with others

The program is free for adults living, working or studying in south east Melbourne.

To register or learn more, please contact 1800 639 523 or email group.programs@betterplace.com.au .

Alfred Health Consultmed eReferral is live

Wed, 17 Sep 2025 01:42:35 GMT

Significant improvements have been made to Alfred Health’s eReferral platform, Consultmed. These enhancements were made following feedback from referring GPs and make the referral process simpler and more efficient.

Alfred Health now accepts electronic referrals (eReferrals) through the Consultmed platform for Specialist Outpatient Clinic Services at The Alfred, Sandringham Hospital, and Caulfield Home, Acute, and Community Services.

Consultmed eReferral provides an enhanced user experience, making it quicker and easier to send referrals securely.

Referrers benefit from:
In-built referral guidelines and Statewide Referral Criteria requirements
Simple attachment of reports, images and results
Acknowledgement receipt (notification of referral outcome will be directly from Alfred Health as usual)
Integration with Best Practice, Medical Director and Gentu, whilst referrers with other practice management software (PMS) types will be able to utilise the Consultmed web portal to send electronic referrals

Additional clinical support from a specialist is available via ‘Advice and Guidance’ in Endocrinology and Diabetes, and Gastroenterology. You can securely message one of our Alfred consultants via Consultmed eReferral to ask questions to support management without necessarily requesting an outpatient appointment. A response will be received within 3 working days.

Please submit your next referral to Alfred Health via Consultmed.

To log in or create a free Consultmed account, click here .

For Alfred Health eReferral information and PMS support resources, click here .

For account setup or technical assistance, please contact the Consultmed team via the Contact Us page.

10 Year Impact Series: Digital Health

Wed, 17 Sep 2025 00:23:53 GMT

South Eastern Melbourne Primary Health Network (SEMPHN) has turned 10! Over the next few months we’re sharing bite-sized impact stories—from digital health breakthroughs to youth wellbeing, mental health reform, aged care innovation and more. Each snapshot shows how local partnerships have improved care across our community.

A key milestone from our 10-year journey shows why digital health matters. In 2016-17, we partnered with UK innovators to bring Simple Telehealth (“Nellie” now known as Florence ) to local practices. Each patient received personalised SMS prompts—“Send today’s BP reading”—and Nellie’s algorithms replied with coaching or alerted clinicians when numbers went out of range.

Early adopter Dr Gowri Ratnavelar reported her patients had better blood-pressure control, fewer unnecessary visits and stronger patient ownership of care. Today, approximately 97% of practices across our catchment use SEMPHN-supported tools—including e-referrals, secure messaging, electronic prescribing and remote monitoring—to reach people wherever they are.

Nellie / Florence is just one example of how SEMPHN has used innovation to improve outcomes over the last decade. By working closely with general practice, allied health and community partners, we continue turning smart ideas into practical tools so people in south east Melbourne can live their healthiest lives.

Celebrating 10 years of impact

Wed, 17 Sep 2025 00:13:36 GMT

South Eastern Melbourne Primary Health Network (SEMPHN) has turned 10!

Over the next few weeks we’re sharing bite-sized impact stories—from digital health breakthroughs to youth wellbeing, mental-health reform, aged care innovation and more. Each snapshot shows how local partnerships have improved care across our community, spanning mental health, First Nations health, population health, workforce development and aged care.

Click below to explore every chapter in our 10-Year Impact Series.

First Peoples’ Healing Program

Wed, 10 Sep 2025 04:05:37 GMT

Are you a First Nations carer supporting a loved one affected by alcohol, other drugs, or mental health challenges? Join Windana's monthly First Peoples’ Carers Program.

Program highlights:

Education on substances
Culturally safe, welcoming environment
Yarning circles and peer support
Practical workshops on self-care, wellness, and advocacy
Support with navigating services and resources
Self-care education.

Why join?

Share your experiences in a safe and respectful space
Build resilience and wellbeing
Connect with others who understand your journey
Access information, support, and cultural activities.

Where?

Windana, Bunurong Country, 31 Playne Street, Frankston, or join online by scanning the QR code on flyer.

Who can come?

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander carers, family members, and supporters.

How to join?

Contact Junelle Houston on 0466 496 600 or visit us at 31 Playne Street, Frankston on the day.

Upcoming dates:

Wednesday 17 September, 1:30 pm - 3 pm
Wednesday 15 October, 1:30 pm - 3 pm
Wednesday 12 November, 1:30 pm - 3 pm
Wednesday 10 December, 1:30 pm - 3 pm

Walk-ins are welcome. Light refreshments provided.

Alfred Post COVID Service

Wed, 10 Sep 2025 02:45:09 GMT

The Post COVID Service is a multidisciplinary service for adults who are experiencing ongoing symptoms after a COVID-19 infection.

Care includes:

A comprehensive assessment of the patient’s symptoms and treatment goals.
Multidisciplinary team review as indicated including medical, physiotherapy, occupational therapy, and neuropsychology.
Referral back to the patient’s GP following completion of the patient’s input through the service.

What to expect:

Once a patient’s referral has been accepted, they can expect the following:

They will complete initial questionnaire outcome measures prior to their initial appointment.

A telephone consultation to gain more understanding about their symptoms, introduce management strategies and referrals to relevant multidisciplinary team members.

Individual or group appointments with relevant medical and allied health clinicians to address the patient’s specific needs and goals.

Eligibility criteria: For patients to be eligible for the program, they must:

Be aged 18 years or older
Have a confirmed history of SARS COV-2 infection
Have had long COVID symptoms for 3 months post infection
Live in Victoria

Please note that the Alfred are currently accepting referrals from medical professionals, and other healthcare practitioners.

How to refer:

Please email all referrals to: postcovidfollowup@alfred.org.au

For further information: Phone: (03) 9076 3450 Monday – Fridays 8:00am – 4:30pm
Email: postcovidfollowup@alfred.org.au
Address: Caulfield Hospital Specialist Consulting Suites Building 28, Level 1 260 Kooyong Road, Caulfield, VIC, 3162

World Suicide Prevention Day - Changing the Narrative

Tue, 09 Sep 2025 06:41:23 GMT

Wednesday 10 September marks World Suicide Prevention Day, a global opportunity to reflect, raise awareness and strengthen our shared commitment to preventing suicide.

This year’s theme, ‘Changing the Narrative on Suicide,’ invites us to transform how we think and talk about suicide. By shifting from silence and stigma to openness, empathy and action, we can help ensure those struggling feel heard, supported and connected.

At South Eastern Melbourne PHN we are dedicated to compassionately addressing suicide prevention. We work closely with local communities, healthcare providers and people with lived experience to design and commission programs that:

Prevent suicide
Support those who have attempted suicide
Provide care and understanding to families, friends and communities affected

Our most recent Health Needs Assessment highlights that suicide remains the leading cause of death for Australians aged 15 – 44. Each year, more the 3,000 Australians die by suicide, and over 55,000 make an attempt. These are not just numbers, they are families, friends, colleagues and communities.

“Suicide prevention is about connection. By listening, reaching out, and showing empathy, we can all play a role in supporting people through their darkest moments."

Fabiola Case, SEMPHN's Suicide Prevention Senior Program Officer.

For local resources and resources, please visit our Suicide Prevention page .

allergy assist™ available to all GPs in Australia

Thu, 04 Sep 2025 00:22:05 GMT

allergy assist™ is a free, national online service for General Practitioners (GPs) and rural generalists giving them access to timely advice and support from clinical immunology/allergy specialists.

The platform, which is securely hosted by the Australian College of Rural and Remote Medicine (ACRRM), allows doctor-to-doctor written discussion on patient cases. As of 28 July, the service is available to all GPs in Australia, including those in metropolitan areas, as well as rural generalists and members of ACRRM. Doctors do not need to be ACRRM members to use the service.

To apply for allergy assist™ , visit: acrrm.org.au/resources/digital-health/allergy-assist .

How it works:

GPs who are registered with allergy assist™ can ask a question and share relevant information about a patient case.
The question can be about any suspected allergic presentation including food allergy, medication allergy, insect sting or bit allergy, history of anaphylaxis, allergic rhinitis or atopic dermatitis.
The GP must have their patent’s consent and de-identify the case and any images before it is submitted.
A clinical immunology/allergy specialist is assigned the case and responds within 48 hours with high quality advice to assist with management and guidance on appropriate referral where necessary.

This initiative not only aims to improve patient care but also empowers doctors by fostering peer-to-peer learning and professional development (CPD hours available). Doctors registered with allergy assist will be invited to webinars on allergy topics of interest. The platform also hosts resources such as allergy education cases, learning modules, links to the Australian Society of Clinical Immunology and Allergy (ASCIA) health professional resources and clinical guidelines, and Allergy & Anaphylaxis Australia resources.

The allergy assist™ initiative is a collaborative effort between the National Allergy Council and ACRRM and has received funding from the Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care. The service is being piloted between February 2025 and February 2026, has ethics approval and will be evaluated.

Enquiries about the service or eligibility can be sent to info@nationalallergy.org.au .

Important tips for MyMedicare for General Practices

Wed, 27 Aug 2025 01:51:44 GMT

MyMedicare is designed to create and maintain a link between patients and one preferred general practice location for ongoing care, where patients can also access their preferred GP.

To maintain care continuity between the practice and the patient, some MBS Items and general practice incentives are subject to a MyMedicare conditional rule^.

To ensure your MyMedicare journey is smooth sailing for you and your patients, use the checklist below to make sure your MyMedicare setup is in shape! You may even wish to incorporate some of these into your practice processes.

Top tips for MyMedicare for general practices

Register your practice for MyMedicare *
MyMedicare practices should setup and maintain their Organisation Register including:
Ensure your Organisation Site Record details are correct (see Organisation Register - Health Professional Education Resources ).
Make sure providers are linked from the date the Organisation Site Record was created or the day they commenced working from the practice (this includes GPs, Registrars, Nurse Practitioners, Practice Nurses, Aboriginal Health Workers and Practitioners).
Link your patients to their preferred GP in the Organisation Site Record.
Keep your Organisation Register up to date when providers change at your practice (when a provider leaves or a new provider starts at your practice).
Keep your accreditation up to date - check your accreditation record and ensure your accreditation details are added correctly (see page 8 - ORGREGM06 - Amend your Organisation Site Record through HPOS ).
Switch on your HPOS notifications by email, and understand HPOS notifications
Communicate with your patients about MyMedicare registration *.
If you are the patient’s usual practice they wish to attend for ongoing care (such as GP Chronic Conditions Management care), encourage patients to register for MyMedicare with your practice.
If a patient prefers to visit another general practice for ongoing care, do not register them for MyMedicare at your practice. Encourage them to register for MyMedicare and attend their preferred practice- particularly for care that is ongoing care (such as GP Chronic Conditions Management Items).
If you are receiving a MyMedicare-related error code when processing claims, check that the patient is registered for MyMedicare with your practice . Remember, if you have more than one practice location, the patient needs to be registered at the location that the claim is being made.

*MyMedicare Registration is voluntary for both patients and practices. Patients can self-register using the MyGov app . Practices must always gain informed consent from patients for MyMedicare registration.

MBS Items and Incentives linked with a MyMedicare conditional rule^ include:

The General Practice in Aged Care Incentive
GP Chronic Conditions Management Plans
Telephone Level C and D MBS items
Triple Bulk Billing Incentives for video and telephone consultations that are longer than 20 minutes [1] (Levels C, D and E) for eligible MyMedicare patients registered with the practice.

^It is important to remember that not all claim rejections are related to MyMedicare. Co-claiming restrictions may apply. There are also long-standing MBS rules that apply to GP chronic condition management items that may result in a claim being rejected.

If you need MyMedicare support, please contact your Provider Support Officer or email providersupport@semphn.org.au.

You can find more information about MyMedicare here.

For further information on GP chronic condition management plans please see:

MBS Online - Upcoming changes to the MBS Chronic Disease Management Framework
MBS Online Explanatory Notes including AN.15.3 and AN.0.47.

New information on the Bulk Billing Practice Incentive Program

Fri, 22 Aug 2025 05:41:32 GMT

Bulk billing incentive payments changes from 1 November 2025 will expand the eligibility of bulk billing incentives to all Australians with a Medicare card.

Currently, general practitioners (GPs) only receive Medicare bulk billing incentives if they bulk bill children under 16 years old and Commonwealth concession card holders.

On 15 August 2025, Mark Butler, Minister for Health, Disability and Ageing, announced that from 1 November 2025, practices and GPs registering for the Bulk Billing Practice Incentive Program (BBPIP) will equally share in the additional incentive payment of 12.5% of MBS billings for eligible services .

The even BBPIP payment split recognises the roles played by both practices and providers in delivering bulk billed services to patients.

Practices that join the BBPIP must bulk bill every eligible service for every patient to receive the incentive payment. The BBPIP payment will be in addition to MBS benefits paid (including bulk billing incentives ).

A recorded webinar explaining Bulk Billing Incentives and BBPIP financial modelling is also available for general practices.

An updated resource answering frequently asked questions about BBPIP is available for practices, providers, practice managers and health professionals, including eligibility, benefits and how the program operates.

Further details and instructions on how to register in BBPIP will be provided later this year, and registration for BBPIP will be available from 1 November 2025.

Accredited practices can prepare in advance by registering for MyMedicare now. Instructions on how to register for MyMedicare are available on the Services Australia Health Professional Education Resources website.

For practice support, please contact your Provider Support Officer or email providersupport@semphn.org.au .

Syphilis declared a Communicable Disease Incident of National Significance

Wed, 20 Aug 2025 03:42:22 GMT

On the 7 August 2025, Australia's Chief Medical Officer, Professor Michael Kidd AO declared syphilis a Communicable Disease Incident of National Significance (CDINS) within Australia.

Syphilis notifications remain high across the country and congenital syphilis remains a significant health threat, with some cases leading to infant death. First Nations peoples continue to be disproportionately impacted by congenital syphilis, with notification rates 7 times higher than non-Indigenous Australians.

In 2025 alone, as of 6 August, there have been 3,546 cases of infectious syphilis, including 11 cases of congenital syphilis with 4 leading to infant death.

What can healthcare workers do?

Healthcare workers should ensure they are across the latest guidelines and recommendations for testing and treating infectious syphilis . You can also refer to ASHMs Syphilis Decision Making Tool . Syphilis is preventable, and easy to treat if found early. However, as mentioned in Professor Kidd’s statement, syphilis can often show no symptoms, meaning it requires a proactive and vigilant approach.

A particular focus on congenital syphilis is needed. It is now recommend that all pregnant women be tested for syphilis three times during pregnancy; at the first antenatal visit, at 26-28 weeks and at 36 weeks or birth (whichever is earlier), aligning with the latest Living Evidence for Australian Pregnancy & Postnatal Care (LEAPP) recommendations.

Other resources

[CLOSED] Opportunity for four new Medicare Urgent Care Clinics in south east Melbourne

Mon, 18 Aug 2025 23:00:00 GMT

This article has been updated to reflect adjustments to the confirmed locations for the new Medicare UCCs.

The South Eastern Melbourne Primary Health Network (SEMPHN) invites accredited general practices to submit tenders for the establishment of four new Medicare Urgent Care Clinics (UCCs).

This tender opportunity is part of the Commonwealth Department of Health, Disability and Ageing's commitment to expand UCCs across the country, opening 50 new clinics nationwide, including 12 in Victoria.

The four new Medicare UCCs will service residents in and around the following Local Government Areas (LGAs):

Bayside
Cardinia - with a preference for Pakenham
Stonnington and bordering suburbs (including Malvern, East Malvern, Caulfield North, Caulfield, Carnegie and Murrumbeena)
Mornington Peninsula - with a preference for Somerville

What are Medicare Urgent Care Clinics?

Medicare UCCs reduce demand on hospital emergency departments by providing a primary care service for urgent conditions that do not require an emergency response. Medicare UCCs are GP-led services that increase access to primary care, providing treatment to people with conditions such as mild infections, sprains, broken bones and minor burns. They also offer pathology and imaging services.

SEMPHN currently commissions four Medicare UCCs, based in Dandenong, Frankston, Prahran and Narre Warren.

What's involved?

Medicare UCCs are required to deliver services as outlined in the Medicare UCC Operational Guidance , including the following requirements:

Must be open for 14 hours a day, 7 days a week (including public holidays)
Services provided at Medicare UCCs must be bulk billed, resulting in no out-of-pocket costs to patients (refer to tender specifications).

Applying for this tender

To be considered for this tender, applicants must:

Be a general practice provider that currently provides services within the SEMPHN catchment, and/or a general practice provider who currently operates Medicare UCCs elsewhere in Victoria
Medicare UCCs are required to be established/co-located with an accredited general practice in line with the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) standards
Preference will be given to existing general practices that seek to be established/co-located with a Medicare UCC within the specified eligible service delivery locations
Preference will also be given to general practices that offer fully bulk billed services
If a general practice is not currently providing services in the eligible locations, the application must confirm the intention to establish a general practice co-located with the Medicare UCC in the specified locations. In these instances, SEMPHN will require written permission from the Commonwealth Department of Health, Disability and Ageing to establish a contract with a new general practice
Medicare UCCs based within existing community health centres or Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Services (ACCHS) will also be considered, in line with the eligibility criteria
Deliver the proposed services/activities within the geographical boundaries of the listed eligible locations
Be able to commence service delivery by no later than 15 December 2025.

Additional detailed eligibility is provided in the tender specifications.

All questions and tenders MUST be submitted via SEMPHN's eProcure by the dates below.

Key Dates

18 August 2025: Tender opens
3 September 2025 (3 pm): Closing date for questions via eProcure
10 September 2025 (3 pm): Closing date for responses
13 and 14 October 2025: Site visits with shortlisted respondents
15 October 2025: Interviews with shortlisted respondents (if required)
By 15 December 2025: Service commencement date
30 June 2028: Contract end date

Bulk Billing Practice Incentive Program – even payment split announced

Fri, 15 Aug 2025 06:51:29 GMT

Bulk billing incentive payments changes from 1 November 2025 will expand the eligibility of bulk billing incentives to all Australians with a Medicare card.

Currently, general practitioners (GPs) only receive Medicare bulk billing incentives if they bulk bill children under 16 years old and Commonwealth concession card holders.

Today, Mark Butler, Minister for Health, Disability and Ageing announced that from 1 November 2025, practices and GPs registering for the Bulk Billing Practice Incentive Program (BBPIP) will equally share in the additional incentive payment of 12.5% of MBS billings for eligible services .

The even BBPIP payment split recognises the roles played by both practices and providers in delivering bulk billed services to patients.

Practices that join the Bulk Billing Practice Incentive Program must bulk bill every eligible service for every patient, to receive the incentive payment. The Bulk Billing Practice Incentive Program payment will be in addition to MBS benefits paid (including bulk billing incentives ).

Further details and instructions on how to register in BBPIP will be provided later this year, and registration for BBPIP will be available from 1 November 2025.

Accredited practices can prepare in advance, by registering for MyMedicare now. Instructions on how to register for MyMedicare are available on the Services Australia Health Professional Education Resources website.

A resource answering frequently asked questions about BBPIP is available for practices, providers, practice managers and health professionals, including eligibility, benefits and how the program operates.

For practice support please contact your Provider Support Officer or email providersupport@semphn.org.au .

New and updated respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) resources

Wed, 13 Aug 2025 02:02:35 GMT

The Australian Government Department of Health, Disability and Aging (the department) has released a number of updated resources to support the correct administration of RSV vaccines and monoclonal antibodies.

A single dose of the RSV vaccine, Abrysvo®, is recommended for women at 28 to 36 weeks of pregnancy and is available for free through the National Immunisation Program (NIP).

Arexvy® must not be administered to pregnant women.
Victoria is offering the RSV monoclonal antibody, Beyfortus™ (Nirsevimab) for free to eligible infants and children.
Abrysvo® and Arexvy® must not be administered to infants or children.
The department has produced a poster outlining the correct administration of RSV vaccines and monoclonal antibodies by cohort.

Updated resources include:

For more information visit - Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccine | Australian Government Department of Health, Disability and Ageing

Upcoming changes to childhood pneumococcal schedule from 1 September 2025

Wed, 13 Aug 2025 00:39:50 GMT

The Department of Health, Disability and Ageing has announced changes to the National Immunisation Program (NIP) childhood pneumococcal schedule, following advice from the Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI).

From 1 September 2025, Prevenar 20 will replace Prevenar 13 and Pneumovax 23. All First Nations children will now receive 4 doses, ensuring national consistency.

From 1 September 2025, children should receive Prevenar 20 based on their current vaccination status:

Non-First Nations children without risk conditions, who are yet to start the pneumococcal schedule should receive 3 doses of Prevenar 20 at 2,4 and 12 months of age.
All First-Nations children and children diagnosed with any risk conditions listed in the Australian Immunisation Handbook , who are yet to start the pneumococcal schedule, should receive Prevenar 20 at 2,4,6 and 12 months of age.
All children who have received 1 or 2 doses of Prevenar 13 should receive Prevenar 20 for all subsequent doses to complete the recommended vaccination course (where required).
Children who have completed their vaccination course with Prevenar 13 and are due for any dose of Pneumovax 23 should receive 1 dose of Prevenar 20 instead. Pneumovax 23 may still be used while stock remains available.
Children aged ≥12 months – ≤17 years newly diagnosed with any risk conditions listed in the Australian Immunisation Handbook should receive Prevenar 20 at diagnosis.

Further information

Important updates and actions following increasing mpox cases in Victoria

Wed, 13 Aug 2025 00:10:59 GMT

Following a recent increase in mpox cases in Victoria, the South East Public Health Unit (SEPHU) has provided information for general practitioners, highlighting the key updates and actions.

After a period of three months with no local transmission of mpox infection, there have been seven confirmed cases notified among Victorian residents between 14 July and 1 August. Five cases were locally acquired.

Although mpox can infect anyone, in Australia, clade II mpox disproportionately impacts individuals who identify as gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men (GBMSM).

Symptoms of mpox include proctitis with or without visible lesions. Lesions can be localised or disseminated in genital and other bodily regions. Systemic symptoms such as fever, lethargy and lymphadenopathy can also occur. Symptoms can be mild among those who have been vaccinated.

Please test individuals with compatible symptoms

Think and test for mpox when testing for other conditions which may mimic mpox lesions such as HSV and VZV, especially in at-risk groups despite vaccination status.
Information on testing can be found on the Department of Health website .
Advise individuals who have been tested to refrain from any sexual activity and to cover lesions when in public places, until receipt of negative result.
Please notify the Department of Health on 1300 651 160 when testing for mpox.

Vaccinate

The mpox vaccine (JYNNEOS) is available free-of-charge for those eligible. Eligibility criteria can be found on the Department of Health website . Medicare cards are not needed to receive the vaccine.
Two doses 28 days apart is required for optimal protection. Encourage patients to return for their second dose if overdue.

Resources

For medical practitioners:
Department of Health : Mpox – Notification, diagnosis, transmission, control measures and vaccination advice
Australian Immunisation Handbook: Mpox (previously known as monkeypox)
For patients:
Better Health Channel: Mpox signs, symptoms and treatment
Better Health Channel: Advice for people with mpox

Thank you for your assistance in reducing the risk of mpox transmission in our community. Please contact SEPHU at sephu.trace@monashhealth.org for further information.

Advance notice for general practices: request for tender opening soon

Fri, 08 Aug 2025 01:10:45 GMT

South Eastern Melbourne Primary Health Network (SEMPHN) will soon seek to commission general practice providers to establish four new Medicare Urgent Care Clinics servicing residents in and around the following Local Government Areas (LGAs) and locations:

Bayside
Stonnington - with a focus on the eastern area and bordering suburbs
Mornington Peninsula - with a focus on Hastings
Cardinia - with a focus on Pakenham

Please note: locations are subject to change. The upcoming Request for Tender (RfT) will outline the final eligible locations.

SEMPHN expects to open a RfT in mid-late August 2025.

Background information

Medicare Urgent Care Clinics (UCCs) reduce demand on hospital emergency departments by providing a primary care service for urgent conditions that do not require an emergency response. UCCs are GP-led services that increase access to primary care, providing treatment to people with conditions such as mild infections, sprains, broken bones and minor burns. They also offer pathology and imaging services.

UCCs are expected to be open for 14 hours a day, 7 days a week (including public holidays), and are free for people of all ages (with or without a Medicare card).

Visit health.gov.au and refer to the Medicare UCC Operational Guidance for more information.

Eligibility requirements

Detailed eligibility criteria will be available in the RfT documentation.

Tender documentation and process

SEMPHN will use eProcure as its portal for this RfT opportunity. To apply, interested providers must be registered for eProcure. Once registered, you will receive email notifications when the tender is published. Additionally, we publish a commissioning newsletter that shares tender opportunities and announcements. You can sign up to receive SEMaphore here .

Communication and enquiries

Once the RfT opens, interested parties will be able to submit questions via eProcure .The team is currently unable to answer any questions about this opportunity.

We look forward to sharing more details about this exciting opportunity in the coming weeks and expanding these critically important services within the south east Melbourne region.

Improved access to Multidisciplinary Team Care for patients in Frankston and Mornington Peninsula

Wed, 30 Jul 2025 01:20:19 GMT

South Eastern Melbourne Primary Health Network (SEMPHN) is pleased to announce the successful applicants of the General Practice Multidisciplinary Teams (MDT) initiative.

Congratulations to the following general practices:

Balnarring Medical Centre
Beachside Doctors
Baxter Park Medical Centre
Hastings Central Medical Centre
Headspace Frankston Youth Health Clinic
Karingal Family Medical Centre
Karingal Hub Doctors
Langwarrin Health Clinic
Somerville Medical Centre
South Coast Medical Dromana
St Mark’s Medical Centre Seaford
Tyabb Health

The GP MDT program aims to improve care for patients with multiple chronic health conditions in the Local Government Areas (LGAs) of Frankston and Mornington Peninsula. The program will provide funding for practices to expand their teams to include a variety of multidisciplinary professionals, such as allied health professionals, nurse practitioners, nurses, midwives, and Aboriginal health workers or practitioners.

SEMPHN’s 2023 Health Needs Assessment identified Frankston and Mornington Peninsula as priority areas due to a higher proportion of residents with multiple chronic conditions who are disadvantaged and in need of income support.

The program is funded until 30 June 2027 .

New PaRIS report offers insights into chronic condition care in Australia

Wed, 23 Jul 2025 05:01:00 GMT

The Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care has released the Patient-Reported Indicator Surveys (PaRIS) Australian National Report 2025, offering valuable insights from patients about their care experiences and health outcomes of people living with chronic conditions.

Developed by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), the PaRIS survey is the first of its kind to collect feedback directly from patients with chronic conditions, aged 45 and over, across 19 countries, including nearly 2,400 patients from 54 general practices in Australia.

The study aimed to understand patients' point of view about:

Their experience with primary care
Their health outcomes, and
How they access health information and services

PaRIS uniquely fed back patients responses to their GP practices. This enabled practices to examine the results of their patient cohort and use the data to improve care. It’s a powerful tool for identifying strengths and opportunities in how we deliver care in the community.

Key insights from the report

Australia performed well across all 10 health measures - better than or close to the OECD average
We were in the top five in quality of care, coordination of care, person-centred care and physical health
There is room for improvement in areas of mental health, well-being and social functioning (how well patients perform activities and responsibilities).

Why is this report important

The results of the report will help:

policy makers by providing better information on where to focus quality improvement efforts and prioritise spending
healthcare providers by giving them a clearer understanding of how to improve the quality of the care they provide; and
most importantly, patients , by enabling them have their voices heard to help shape the way care is delivered in the future.

Dementia Rehabilitation Program extended

Wed, 23 Jul 2025 04:08:12 GMT

The Dementia Rehabilitation Program has been extended until 30 June 2027. The program provides support to people with dementia and their carers to maintain their independence.

Funded by SEMPHN and delivered by Encara , the free in-home Dementia Rehabilitation Program aims to improve access to allied health-led rehabilitation activities to support independence and wellbeing.

The multi-disciplinary program includes:

Weekly physiotherapy sessions to improve mobility, strength and pain management
Weekly occupational therapy sessions including home assessments
Holistic therapies, such as art therapy, based on personal interests
Access to podiatry, speech/pathology, and dietetics
Ongoing education and support for the participant and carer.

This free program is available to people aged 65 years and over living in Mornington Peninsula, Casey, Greater Dandenong, Kingston, and Frankston.

Since its launch in 2023, over 300 people have benefited from the program.

Learn more about the program and how to refer here.

[Closed] Opportunity to apply to join SEMPHN’s Ltd’s Board

Tue, 22 Jul 2025 01:16:34 GMT

The South Eastern Melbourne PHN (SEMPHN) Board is currently recruiting up to two suitably skilled Non-Executive Directors.

This is an opportunity to submit an application to join the SEMPHN Board delivering our 2023-28 Strategic Plan: Path to Impact , with a focus on improving local health outcomes that are measurable, high quality and equitable.

Who should apply?

We are looking for appropriately skilled Directors, who live or work in south east Melbourne, and have previous Board level experience in corporate governance developed in medium to large health care settings and/or a commissioning environment across a diverse range of stakeholders. Essential skills also include financial literacy and an understanding of regulatory and risk management frameworks.

In addition, successful candidates must be able to demonstrate skills, qualification and/or experience in at least one of the following areas within the health sector over the past 5 years:

Federal Government Networks and Influence:

Successful engagement with federal government networks and/or proven ability to influence key policy decisions at this level; and
Where you have been actively involved at a senior executive or board level in developing successful complex partnerships across diverse stakeholders – in business, government (state or federal) or the community.

Primary Care Reform in General Practice:

Primary health care expertise in service development, delivery, or management in the SEMPHN catchment; and
Experience with clinical governance frameworks.

SEMPHN is committed to diversity in our workforce and Board, where we can learn from life experiences and the perspectives of our people, regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, religion, cultural background, disability, or sexual orientation.

How to apply?

Applications are now closed.

Understanding bulk billing changes for GPs and practices

Thu, 17 Jul 2025 03:13:33 GMT

The Australian Government Department of Health, Disability and Ageing invites GPs and general practices to attend a webinar on upcoming changes to bulk billing.

The webinar will cover:

The expansion of bulk billing incentives to all Medicare-eligible Australians.
The Bulk Billing Practice Incentive Program (BBPIP).

From 1 November 2025, these changes will:

Provide additional funding to GPs and practices that bulk bill their patients.
Establish the Bulk Billing Practice Incentive Program, which will provide an additional 12.5% incentive payment when GPs and their practice bulk bill all eligible patients for all eligible services.
Support patients to access the primary care services they need.

The webinar will demonstrate how more than 4,800 practices will be financially better off if they switch to bulk billing, explain how to join BBPIP, and provide time for a Q&A.

Dates and times

Please click on a link below to register for the webinar at your preferred date and time:

Monday 4 August at 10.30 am - 11.30 am (AEST) - Register here
Wednesday 6 August at 4 pm - 5 pm (AEST) - Register here
Friday 8 August at 1 pm - 2 pm (AEST) - Register here

Commonwealth Psychosocial Support program extended and expanded across south east Melbourne

Wed, 16 Jul 2025 05:08:22 GMT

The Commonwealth Psychosocial Support (CPS) program has been extended until 30 June 2027, ensuring continued access to vital community-based mental health support across south east Melbourne.

From 1 July 2025, Ermha365 and Mentis Assist, in partnership with Kindred Clubhouse, will deliver CPS services across all 10 Local Government Areas (LGAs) in the South Eastern Melbourne catchment.

The CPS program is a short-term, non-clinical service focused on providing practical help and strategies for daily living. The program focuses on helping individuals to manage daily tasks, undertake work or study, find housing, get involved in activities, and make connections with family and friends.

The program is specifically designed for people who are:

Living with a severe mental illness
Not receiving NDIS or state funded mental health community support services.

Since 2019, First Step has provided valuable support to the CPS program. Their role in the program will conclude on 30 June 2025, and we thank them for their contributions to mental health support in our region.

Referrals can be made via our Access and Referral team by phone on 1800 862 363 or through an online referral form.

Childcare centre health response - resources to support Health Professionals

Tue, 15 Jul 2025 06:27:18 GMT

Victoria Police are investigating a number of alleged sexual assaults linked to an employee who worked at a number of childcare centres across Melbourne.

The manner of the alleged offending means some children may be recommended for screening for infectious diseases. The Victorian Department of Health, in partnership with Victoria Police, is directly contacting families who may have been affected with further information.

Please note that important updates to the listed centres and dates were made on 15 July 2025. For the latest information, please visit the Victorian Government page .

Families may contact general practices and Urgent Care Clinics for advice, testing and support.

Testing and reporting information

Please refer to the following resources for an overview of the testing requirements and guidance, including the provision of results and supports available for children and families.

Fact sheet for GPs and Urgent Care Clinics – outlines testing requirements and how to provide results
Mandatory reporting requirements – what professionals need to know in the current circumstances
FAQs for GPs - to support role in testing

Support for children and families

A dedicated helpline is available to provide information and help families book free testing:

Helpline: 1800 791 24
Open 7 days a week, from 8 am – 9 pm weekdays and 8 am – 5 pm weekends
Families are encouraged to first check the list of affected centres before calling.

Trauma and recovery support is also available through:

Mental Health support

Our Access & Referral team provides up-to-date access, information and support regarding mental health supports available in our region.

Other available services include:

Beyond Blue – providing mental health information and support
Partners in Wellbeing – provides free support and advice to improve mental health and wellbeing

Support for health professionals

Resources to support your wellbeing and your team include:

RACGP GP Support Program – counselling for GPs available on 1300 361 008
Nursing and Midwifery Health Program Victoria – free and confidential assistance available on (03) 9415 7551
Hand-n-Hand – free peer support for all healthcare workers
Wellbeing in the workplace (.pdf) – from the National Centre for Action on Child Sexual Abuse
Department of Health & RACGP Victoria Webinar: childcare centre health response – webinar recorded on 3 July 2025
Victorian Police website - Updates on investigation into alleged sexual assaults at Melbourne childcare centres.

Need help or have questions?

SEMPHN’s Provider Support Team is here to assist. Contact us at providersupport@semphn.org.au .

Unlocking Early Lung Cancer Detection with Florence

Wed, 09 Jul 2025 06:27:32 GMT

The National Lung Cancer Screening Program (NLCSP) Protocol is now available in Florence, helping healthcare professionals quickly assess whether patients meet the eligibility criteria for life-saving CT-scans.

Built with simplicity in mind, this new protocol ensures all the necessary eligibility questions are asked and documented so you have all the information available to confirm that your patient is eligible for lung screening. This automated protocol simplifies the screening process, allowing you to focus more on patient care and less on paperwork.

Lung cancer is Australia’s biggest cancer killer – but early detection changes everything. Florence makes it easy to be part of the solution.

Why Florence?

Florence is your digital nurse assistant supporting chronic condition management. It’s simple, efficient, and fits seamlessly into your workflow. Florence’s human-like persona and friendly text messages make patients feel supported and understood, helping build trust and boost engagement. By using Florence, healthcare professionals can deliver consistent, compassionate care at scale – without adding to their workload.

For more information on Florence, the protocol, or to get started on Florence today, contact florence@semphn.org.au

National Lung Cancer Program

As of 1 July 2025, eligible Australians aged 50-70 can participate in the National Lung Cancer Screening Program . The program aims to improve health outcomes for Australians by increasing early detection of lung cancer and saving lives.

Healthcare providers and the health support workforce will play a critical role in the delivery and success of the program by increasing understanding of and participation in the program.

Honouring NAIDOC Week 2025 – Celebrating Culture, Legacy and Future Leadership

Sun, 06 Jul 2025 23:00:29 GMT

At SEMPHN, we are proud to recognise and celebrate NAIDOC Week 2025, a national moment that honours the enduring culture, history, and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

This year’s theme: 'The Next Generation: Strength, Vision and Legacy ', acknowledges the resilience of First Nations communities and the emerging leaders shaping the future.

As always, our celebration of NAIDOC Week reflects our broader commitment to reconciliation, cultural understanding, and the power of respectful engagement in building a more inclusive Australia.

We are also committed to positively impacting health outcomes for First Nations peoples by supporting culturally safe practices and community-led healthcare initiatives.

Extension of healthdirect Video Call COVID-19 GP Program and PHN Exemplar Program to 30 June 2026

Wed, 02 Jul 2025 01:47:55 GMT

The Department of Health, Disability and Ageing has extended the healthdirect Video Call COVID-19 GP Program and the healthdirect Video Call Exemplar Program to 30 June 2026.

GP Program

We encourage GPs to continue using this secure video consulting platform which has been purpose-built for primary care settings, in line with the changes to the telehealth MBS items.
For GPs in private practice wanting to use the service, please register your practice. For GPs in ACCHOs wanting to use the service, please register for access.
RACGP/ACCCRM CPD accredited training in healthdirect Video Call is available for your practice – please register here for essential training.
A Bulk Billing Consent application is now available in healthdirect Video Call to use online.

Exemplar Program

This program provides access for Allied Health and Aged Care, including Residential Aged Care Facilities. Please visit this page to see how others are using Video Call.
For health services wanting to start using Video Call, please register your interest.
Please contact the healthdirect Video Call team if you have any questions.

Peer Mentoring Program builds confidence and capability in new practice managers

Wed, 02 Jul 2025 01:23:37 GMT

A SEMPHN peer mentoring program is helping new practice managers gain the skills and confidence to run successful general practices and support the delivery of quality patient care – and more are needed.

Launched in 2022 by SEMPHN’s Provider Support Team, the Practice Manager Peer Mentoring Program connects new practice managers with experienced counterparts. The voluntary program fosters regular conversations by phone, online, or in person, to provide guidance, reassurance, and informal training, tailored to real world general practice scenarios.

To date, 49 new practice managers have received mentoring through the program. Currently, 23 experienced mentors are active across the south east, supporting their peers and strengthening the primary care workforce.

“Practice managers are essentially the backbone of a general practice,” said Michele Frederiks, Provider Support Officer at SEMPHN. “They oversee all administrative and business operations, ensuring everything runs smoothly”.

SEMPHN developed the program in response to increasing demand for peer support in the primary care sector following COVID-19, particularly as more professionals moved into practice management roles from administrative and nursing backgrounds.

Wendi Davie had been working as a general practice receptionist for six years when she was invited to run a new general practice. Excited to take on the new role, Wendi knew she would need support and resources to take on the challenge.

After reaching out to SEMPHN’s Provider Support Team for support, she was matched with Leeanne, Practice Manager at a Cranbourne clinic, who joined the program in 2022 after experiencing her own steep learning curve.

“I’d previously been a practice nurse and became a practice manager during the pandemic,” Leanne said.

“I am pleased to share my knowledge with newer practice managers and help them to deal with some of the challenges I had experienced.”

Many practice managers transition from administrative or nursing roles, already equipped with experience in understanding Medicare, patient bookings and care, compliance processes and team coordination. However, taking on responsibility for practice operations, human resources, and business continuity can be a significant shift.

Leeanne has now mentored four practice managers through the program and become a valued mentor in the SEMPHN network. In one instance, she took half a day off work to support a mentee through an accreditation process, an important milestone that involves meeting national Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) Standards. In another, she helped a new manager find their voice and confidence within a more experienced team.

“Most new practice managers already have the necessary skills – they just need somebody to advise and reassure them and help to steer them in the right direction,” she said.

Wendi says the support from Leeanne was instrumental to her development.

“She helped with lots of things, from accreditation advice I was stumped on, to accepting registrars [new trainee general practitioners] - It’s an incredibly helpful program,” Wendi said.

“Scheduling time was easy as Leeanne was very open and happy to take phone calls and answer my questions anytime. It was easy to contact her, and she was always happy to answer,” Wendi said. “I’d rate the program 10 out of 10.

I highly recommend this program to anyone needing support.”

The program relies on the generosity and expertise of experienced practice managers who volunteer their time to guide their peers. With many new practice managers entering the workforce, SEMPHN is actively seeking more mentors to meet the demand.

“Mentoring is a great way for experienced practice managers to give back and it’s a really rewarding thing to do,” Leanne said.

In addition to the peer mentoring program, SEMPHN’s Provider Support Officers (PSOs) offer tailored practice support in areas including accreditation guidance, quality improvement, workforce support, and access to grants.

New GP Chronic Conditions Management Framework and MBS Items in effect from 1 July 2025

Tue, 01 Jul 2025 23:50:34 GMT

New GP Chronic Conditions Management (GPCCM) MBS items are now in effect (from 1 July 2025).

What does this mean for your general practice?

Existing Chronic Disease Management (CDM) Plans and referrals will remain valid until July 2027. There is no need to take immediate action to transition CDM patients to new GPCCMPs.
Use the new GPCCM MBS item numbers (see table below) in place of the ceased CDM item numbers. When billing any new GPCCM plans or undertaking reviews of a Chronic Disease Management (CDM) plan, use the MBS item numbers for an initial GP Chronic Condition Management Plan (GPCCMP) [965, 392, 29029, 29060]. This is necessary as GPCCMP Review item numbers are not able to be claimed unless a new GPCCMP has been billed.
If you are a MyMedicare practice, encourage any patients with a CDM plan or GP Chronic Condition Management Plans (GPCCMPs) to register with your practice for MyMedicare.
Explain to them that MyMedicare establishes a unique link to the general practice they wish to see most of the time for ongoing care and management of their chronic health condition/s.
If a patient does not wish to register for MyMedicare, they should be reassured MyMedicare is voluntary and that they can continue to access GPCCMP care through their usual practice.
Be sure to schedule regular CCM reviews at the conclusion of each CCM new or review appointment, and clearly explain the care planned for the next review to each patient.
Practice nurses, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Practitioners, and Aboriginal Health Workers can assist the GP or Prescribed Medical Practitioner to prepare or review a GPCCMP.
Team Care Arrangements are no longer required and referral arrangements to allied health providers have been simplified.
Check MyMedicare registration of your patients prior to scheduling CCM plans. Patients registered for MyMedicare at another general practice are not eligible for CCM MBS items at your practice.

Table 1: GP Chronic Condition Management Items commencing 1 July 2025  

For more information on GPCCM changes, MBS Online has released a series of factsheets:

MBS Online - Upcoming changes to the MBS Chronic Disease Management Framework

Important updates to the COVID-19 vaccine recommendations for 2025

Thu, 26 Jun 2025 00:45:07 GMT

The Australian Immunisation Handbook has been updated to reflect the latest COVID-19 vaccine recommendations for 2025. The immunocompromising and medical conditions list in the handbook has also been updated.

According to the recent updates, healthy infants, children, and adolescents under 18 are not routinely recommended to receive COVID-19 vaccines. However, children aged 5 and older with medical risk conditions are eligible for vaccination and should receive a dose every 12 months. Women who are planning to become pregnant, are currently pregnant, or are breastfeeding are advised to consider COVID-19 vaccination, in addition to their other routine vaccinations.

It is important to review the handbook to ensure eligible children receive their recommended vaccines.

The National Centre for Immunisation Research and Surveillance (NCIRS) encourages practitioners to take advantage of opportunistic COVID-19 vaccinations for eligible patients to enhance vaccination rates. COVID-19 vaccines can be safely administered alongside other recommended vaccines.

Despite recommendations from the Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI), national vaccine uptake remains low among vulnerable groups.

National vaccinations rates for groups who have received a COVID-19 vaccine in the past six months:

20% of adults aged 65 - 74
3.1% of adults aged 18–64
6.6% of NDIS participants
2.49% of First Nations Peoples
3.1% of people born overseas
2.1% of multilingual people

These figures highlight how important it is for our primary care workforce to review eligibility and recommend vaccination to protect vulnerable populations.

Prepare for the National Lung Cancer Screening Program

Wed, 25 Jun 2025 00:35:55 GMT

From 1 July 2025, eligible Australians aged 50-70 will be able to participate in the new National Lung Cancer Screening Program and have a low-dose CT scan every two years to look for signs of lung cancer.

Lung cancer is Australia’s leading cause of cancer death. This program aims to improve health outcomes for Australians by increasing early detection of lung cancer and saving lives.

Led by the Australian Government, in partnership with the National Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation, this program is designed to be equity-focused, culturally safe, and person-centered.

Lung cancer screening can detect up to 70% of lung cancers in the early stages and could help save hundreds of lives each year.

Healthcare providers and the health support workforce will play a critical role in the delivery and success of the program by increasing understanding of and participation in the program.

What you can do now to get ready

Healthcare providers and the health support workforce will play a central role in the National Lung Cancer Screening Program by assessing participant eligibility, referring eligible participants, and supporting participants through the screening and assessment pathway.

To support you to prepare for the program, new education and resources are now available for healthcare providers. You can access the resources on the Australian Department of Health Disability and Ageing website .

To make sure you feel ready to deliver the program, you should:

Familiarise yourself with the Program Guidelines
Complete the relevant online education
Download or order program resources
Prepare your practice now by registering and integrating with the National Cancer Screening Register.

Find out more about the program and access information and resources for the health workforce at www.health.gov.au/nlcsp-hcp-toolkit .

What do Chronic Conditions Management Changes mean for other members of the general practice team?

Thu, 12 Jun 2025 22:39:06 GMT

MBS Online has recently published a new factsheet outlining what the upcoming Changes to Chronic Conditions Management (CCM) MBS items mean for other members of the general practice team that often play an important role in chronic condition management plans and ongoing care.

Overall, these changes are intended to modernise, streamline and simplify the MBS items for patients with a chronic condition.
The ability for practice nurses, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Practitioners and Aboriginal Health Workers to assist in the preparation of a GPCCMP has been specified in the regulatory arrangements for the new items.
The nature of the services that can be provided using items 10997, 93201, 93202,10950, 81300, 93000, 93013, 93048 and 93061 are not changing as part of these reforms. However, there are changes to the item descriptors for these items because of the removal of GPMPs and TCAs, and commencement of GPCCMPs. These changes:
Allow patients that had a GPMP and/or TCA prior to 1 July 2025 to continue to access these services under those plans until 30 June 2027 ( see separate factsheet on transition arrangements ).
Allow patients that have had a GPCCMP prepared or reviewed in the previous 18 months to access these services.
For services provided using MBS items 10950, 81300, 93000, 93013, 93048 and 93061, referrals written on or after 1 July 2025 will be in the form of a letter, not the form used previously. Referrals written before 1 July 2025 remain valid until all services under the referral have been provided ( see separate factsheet on referral requirements ).

For more information on CCM changes, MBS Online has released a selection of factsheets here .

For support on MyMedicare, please contact your Provider Support Officer or visit SEMPHN's dedicated MyMedicare page .

New Chronic Conditions Management details announced

Thu, 12 Jun 2025 22:02:27 GMT

MBS Online has recently published the ' Upcoming changes to Chronic Disease Management Framework ' , providing guidance on the revised MBS framework for managing patients with chronic conditions in primary care.

The changes simplify, streamline, and modernise the arrangements for health care professionals and patients.

Allied health professionals providing MBS services should be aware of the changes to plan and understand referral requirements.

Requirements for the GP or prescribed medical practitioner to collaborate with other members of the team when preparing or reviewing a patient’s plan have been removed. Patients will be referred directly to services. Allied health providers do not need to confirm their agreement to participate in the patient’s multidisciplinary team.

The nature of the individual and group allied health services that can be provided under the chronic condition management arrangements are not changing.

Transition arrangements will be in place for 2 years to ensure current patients do not lose access to services.

From 1 July 2025:

GP Management Plans (GPMPs) and Team Care Arrangements (TCAs) will be replaced with a single GP Chronic Condition Management Plan (GPCCMP).
Requirements for the GP or prescribed medical practitioner to collaborate with other members of the team when preparing or reviewing a patient’s plan have been removed. Patients will be referred directly to services. Allied health providers do not need to confirm their agreement to participate in the patient’s multidisciplinary team.
Patients with a GPCCMP will be able to access individual allied health services , and for patients with type 2 diabetes only, group allied health services .
Patients with a GPMP and/or TCA in place prior to 1 July 2025 can continue to access these services under those plans until 30 June 2027. Referrals written prior to 1 July 2025 remain valid until all services under the referral have been provided (see separate factsheet on transition arrangements) .
Allied health providers should be aware that referrals for allied health services written on or after 1 July 2025 must meet the new referral requirements (see separate factsheets on referrals and allied health services ).
All other MBS requirements of the existing allied health services are unchanged, including requirements to provide written reports to the referring medical practitioner.

For more information, MBS Online has released a selection of factsheets here .

For support on MyMedicare, please contact your Provider Support Officer or visit SEMPHN's dedicated MyMedicare page .

Men’s Health Week – See Your GP

Thu, 05 Jun 2025 22:14:47 GMT

Men’s Health Week (9 – 15 June) highlights the importance of early intervention in primary care.

This year’s theme, ‘See Your GP’, encourages men to have regular check-ups, not just when they are feeling unwell. Routine consultations can identify conditions early, reduce long-term risks, and improve mental well-being through trusted relationships.

In Australia, men are more likely to die from preventable causes and often lack a regular GP, leading to poorer health outcomes.

Key statistics include:

Lower life expectancy than women
Higher rates of substance misuse and chronic illness
Suicide rates three times higher than women

Learn more about the health of Australia’s males by visiting the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare .

Recent research from the Mentoring Men program revealed:

47% of men aged 35–50 experience general stress and anxiety
36% struggle with maintaining relationships
24% are experiencing parenting-related stress
95% believe support would help, yet many still don’t access it.

The role of primary care

As the first point of contact for many men, GPs and primary health professionals play a key role in normalising routine health care, including:

Regular heart and blood pressure checks
Mental health screening and conversation
Substance use and stress-related risk management
Preventative testing and health education.

Every consult is a chance to make a difference. Even small interventions can help shift attitudes and support men in seeing their GP as a partner in long-term well-being.

Mental Health programs and services for men available in our catchment:

The Men’s Table : A safe space where men gather monthly over dinner to openly and safely share life’s challenges and wins.
Mentoring Men : A free national mentoring service providing one-to-one support for men facing life challenges.

For further resources, visit our Mental Health and Suicide Prevention pages.

What’s happening in our region?

Frankston City Council is hosting free events for Men’s Health Week with local men’s groups – Learn more here .
Cardinia Shire Council is hosting a Men's Health Matters Expo on 14 June 2025 - learn more here .

Campaigns and resources

Healthy Male and the Centre for Male Health have launched a new campaign urging men to prioritise their wellbeing and book a GP visit.

Visit healthymale.org.au/see-your-gp which provides practical tools to help men get the most out of their doctors' visits.

Help us improve and give back to the community

Mon, 02 Jun 2025 00:42:49 GMT

SEMPHN’s Stakeholder Survey is now open!

The feedback we receive helps us strengthen how we work with our stakeholders and improve health outcomes across south east Melbourne.

The survey takes less than 10 minutes and is open until 18 June 2025 .

For every response, SEMPHN will donate $2 to the Southern Migrant and Refugee Centre (SMRC) – a for-purpose organisation supporting migrants and refugees in the region.

New Chronic Conditions Management (CCM) rebates and details announced

Wed, 28 May 2025 03:56:29 GMT

MBS Online has published the upcoming changes to Chronic Disease Management Framework confirming the new framework for chronic disease management from 1 July 2025.

The changes simplify, streamline, and modernise the arrangements for health care professionals and patients.

These changes primarily affect medical practitioners, however, allied health professionals providing MBS services should be aware of the changes to plan and referral requirements.

Transition arrangements will be in place for 2 years to ensure current patients do not lose access to services.

From 1 July 2025:

Items for GP management plans (229, 721, 92024, 92055), team care arrangements (230, 723, 92025, 92056) and reviews (233, 732, 92028, 92059) will cease and be replaced with a new streamlined GP chronic condition management plan (see table below for item numbers).

The updated framework will be known as chronic condition management.

To support continuity of care, patients registered through MyMedicare will be required to access the GP chronic condition management plan and review items through the practice where they are registered. Other patients will be able to access the items through their usual GP.

Where multidisciplinary care is required, patients will be able to access the same range of services currently available through GP management plans and team care arrangements.

GPs and prescribed medical practitioners will refer patients with a GP chronic condition management plan to allied health services directly. The requirement to consult with at least two collaborating providers, as described under the current team care arrangements will be removed.

Practice nurses, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health practitioners and Aboriginal health workers will be able to assist the GP or prescribed medical practitioner to prepare or review a GP chronic condition management plan .

To encourage reviews and ongoing care , the MBS fees for planning and review items will be equalised. The fee for the preparation or review of a plan will be $156.55 for GPs and $125.30 for prescribed medical practitioners . Patients will also need to have their GP chronic condition management plan prepared or reviewed in the previous 18 months to continue to access allied health services.

Consistent with current arrangements, unless exceptional circumstances apply, a GP chronic condition management plan can be prepared once every 12 months (if necessary) and reviews can be conducted once every 3 months. It is not required that a new plan be prepared each year, existing plans can continue to be reviewed.

Patients that had a GP management plan and/or team care arrangement in place prior to 1 July 2025 will be able to continue to access services consistent with those plans for two years . From 1 July 2027, a GP chronic condition management plan will be required for ongoing access to allied health services.

These changes do not affect multidisciplinary care plan items (231, 232, 729, 731, 92026, 92027, 92057, 92058).

Table 1: Chronic Condition Management Items commencing 1 July 2025

For more information, MBS Online has released a selection of Factsheets here: MBS Online – Upcoming changes to the MBS Chronic Disease Management Framework .

For practice support, please visit our Chronic Condition Management item page for a list of activities to help prepare for the upcoming changes. For further support, please contact your Provider Support Officer or email providersupport@semphn.org.au .

Overcoming barriers to flu vaccination: an urgent need for education and improved access

Wed, 28 May 2025 00:52:31 GMT

New research from The Royal Children’s Hospital (RCH) National Child Health Poll reveals an alarming 36% of parents aren’t aware the flu can make children seriously ill, even for healthy kids.

The Poll surveyed parents of 3,200 children. Experts say parents may be unknowingly putting their children at risk because of misinformation.

Key findings:

Only 61% of children are likely to be vaccinated against the flu this season, according to parents.
36% of parents don’t know healthy children can get seriously unwell with the flu.
Among parents not intending to vaccinate their child against the flu, almost three in four (71%) are not aware the flu vaccine is recommended every year.
Most parents who plan to have their child vaccinated against flu would prefer the vaccine was available at school (84%).
One in four children aged four years or more (27%) has an intense fear of needles and 13% have a phobia severe enough to stop them getting the flu vaccine.

Dr Anthea Rhodes, Director of the National Child Health Poll says the research shows significant knowledge gaps still exist among parents when it comes to the flu.

“Unfortunately, it means parents are unintentionally putting their kids at risk, because they don’t have the right health information.”

“Even if your child has had the flu vaccine previously, the flu virus is always changing, so it’s important to get a vaccination every year to ensure children are protected against the current strain.”

Anyone can catch the flu. The flu is mostly spread by droplets made when people infected with influenza cough or sneeze. It can also be spread by touching a surface or object that virus droplets have landed on from an infected person. People with the flu can unknowingly spread it to others before they are sick as well as while they are sick. This is why vaccination is so important to stay protected. Common symptoms include fever, body aches, a runny nose and sore throat, but it can also affect other parts of the body.

Yearly vaccinations are recommended for everyone aged six months or more and are the best way to prevent severe infections, hospitalisations and death.

Some of the other barriers reported by parents were cost, convenience and a child’s fear of needles.

In Victoria, flu vaccinations are free for children aged 0 to 5 years while family members aged over 5 years can generally receive the vaccine for low cost. Although Western Australia and Queensland are offering free flu vaccinations for all age groups, this initiative has not been adopted nationwide.

Dr Rhodes says planning ahead is always a good idea.

“You don’t have to get vaccinated at a GP; you can contact a council run immunisation service to check your eligibility or visit a local pharmacy. In many cases these options are more convenient for families and low cost.

“If you have concerns about your child getting vaccinated due to their fear of needles, it’s best to speak to your health care provider before attending for the vaccination, to plan an approach in advance.

“That way, they can help to make the experience as quick and comfortable as possible,” Dr Rhodes explains.

“The important thing is not to put it off,” she adds vaccination is one of the best things you can do to protect your child and your whole family this winter.”

See a full list of Victorian vaccination locations here.

Additional resources

Further information for parents, teens and young people can be found at: Kids Health Info: Flu (influenza) vaccine

Ministerial visit to Prahran Urgent Care Clinic

Wed, 21 May 2025 05:06:54 GMT

Government leaders visited our Prahran Medicare Urgent Care Clinic (UCC) to discuss UCCs and how they’re helping to take the pressure off hospital emergency departments.

On Monday May 19, representatives from the Sandringham Ambulatory Care Centre (SACC), Alfred Health, and the South Eastern Melbourne Primary Health Network (SEMPHN) joined the Deputy Prime Minister of Australia, the Hon. Richard Marles MP, local Member for Macnamara Josh Burns MP, Member for Melbourne Sarah Whitty MP, and other officials for a tour of one of the four Medicare Urgent Care Centres (UCCs) in south-east Melbourne, which were commissioned by SEMPHN.

Prahran Medicare Urgent Care Clinic (UCC) is located right behind the Emergency Department at the Alfred Hospital in Commercial Road, Prahran.

Since it opened its doors in 2023, 20,000 people have visited the clinic.

That’s 20,000 patients with non-life-threatening injuries and illnesses, who didn’t need to wait at the Alfred Hospital Emergency Department and were able to access free high quality urgent medical care when they needed it - with or without a Medicare card.

Thank you to our Prahran, Dandenong, Frankston, and Narre Warren UCC providers for increasing access to primary care services and providing timely, patient-centred health care to our priority populations and residents in south east Melbourne. By working together with emergency departments and general practices, you’re helping create a more integrated primary health care model that eases the demand and supports referrals.

Medicare UCCs (formerly known as Primary Care Clinics) are commissioned by Primary Health Networks with funding from the Victorian and Australian Governments.

Join us in supporting Reconciliation Week

Mon, 19 May 2025 22:45:00 GMT

SEMPHN is proud to support Get Your Reconciliation On , a vibrant and free community event hosted by First Peoples’ Health and Wellbeing to mark the start of Reconciliation Week 2025.

This year’s theme, ‘Bridging Now to Next’, invites all Australians to reflect on our shared journey toward reconciliation and take meaningful steps toward a more inclusive future.

Event details

Date: Saturday 31 May
Time: 10 am - 3 pm
Location: Frankston Waterfront Reserve, Pier Promenade, Frankston

Enjoy live performances from Jem Cassar-Daley and Electric Fields, along with Blak market stalls, food trucks and family-friendly activities.

There’s also an all-abilities Fun Run (5km and 2km options)!

We are honoured to support this important event and stand alongside our First Nations partners as we work together to create a more equitable and respectful future for all Australians.

This event is free and open to all. For more information and to register for the Fun Run, visit the event page .

Services Australia, MyMedicare and GPACI updates

Thu, 15 May 2025 01:00:54 GMT

Important updates informing general practices about GPACI Q4 service and payment requirements, MyMedicare accreditation details, and patient registration and consent and record keeping requirements.

1. GPACI Q4 Service and Payment requirements

The General Practice in Aged Care Incentive (GPACI) Quarter 4 (Q4) payment requirements are different to the requirements for Q1, Q2 and Q3.

Patients who had the GPACI added to their MyMedicare profile in the July - September 2024 quarter are now in Q4 of their 12-month care period.

Practices and providers must familiarise themselves with the below requirements, to ensure they meet Q4 eligibility.

If you would like further information to the below, or have any questions, please register for the ‘Ask Me Anything… GPACI Q4 Payments’ webinar on 20 May 2025, 12:30pm AEST hosted by the Australian Association of Practice Managers (AAPM) in collaboration with Services Australia.

Requirements:

Patients who had the GPACI added to their MyMedicare profile in the July - September 2024 quarter are now in Q4 of their 12-month care period.

To receive Incentive payments for GPACI patients in Q4, practices and providers must deliver the GPACI quarterly servicing requirements AND the GPACI annual servicing requirements.

Individual providers may have some patients in Q4 while other patients may be in Q1, Q2 or Q3.
This is dependent on when the patient had GPACI added to their MyMedicare profile; not when the practice registered for GPACI or when the practice linked the provider to the patient as the Responsible Provider.
It is the responsibility of the practice and the Responsible Provider to make sure they track which quarter each individual patient is in, and that all servicing requirements are met.
It is recommended that practices and providers run an Eligibility Forecast in HPOS, particularly for patients in Q4. This will identify any servicing requirements that have not been met.
Both the quarterly and annual servicing requirements must be met by both the practice and the Responsible Provider for either of them to be eligible for the Q4 payment.
If practices and providers were assessed as ineligible for Q1, Q2 or Q3 they must still meet the annual servicing requirements by the end of Q4 to be eligible for the Q4 payment.
Note that the Responsible Provider is required to deliver care to patients in line with the patient’s need. That is, all MBS services must be clinically relevant.
Meeting the annual servicing requirements (i.e. 8 regular services and 2 care planning services) contributes to eligibility for a Q4 payment. It does not trigger back-pay for any previous ineligible quarters.

Quarterly servicing requirements (for all quarters, including Q4):

Each quarter:

the practice and provider must deliver at least 2 regular services to the patient, each in a separate calendar month.
the Responsible Provider must deliver at least one of the regular services. The other regular service can be delivered by either the Responsible Provider or an Alternate Provider.

Annual servicing requirements:

In each 12-month annual care period:

2 care planning services must be delivered by the Responsible Provide.
8 regular services must be delivered. For the annual assessment, these services do not have to be delivered:
in separate months or quarters.
by the Responsible Provider. They need to be delivered by an eligible provider linked to the same practice as the patient receiving the services.

Failure to meet the annual servicing requirements:

If the Responsible Provider does not deliver the 2 care planning services by the end of the 12-month care period:

the practice and the Responsible Provider will not get the Q4 payment.
the Responsible Provider must deliver at least 1 care planning service in Q1 of the following 12-month care period.

If the requirements are not met, the practice and provider will be ineligible for the Incentive payments for that patient for the remainder of the patient’s new 12-month care period.

HPOS sends notifications to the practice and Responsible Provider:

if they did not meet the annual servicing requirements for a patient by the end of Q4, to notify them of the requirements to maintain eligibility.
if they fail to meet this requirement in Q1 of the following 12-month care period, to notify them that the practice and Responsible Provider are not eligible for assessment for that patient for the remainder of the patient’s new 12-month care period.

Additional information regarding servicing requirements, including for Q4, can be found in the GPACI program guidelines here .

2. MyMedicare Accreditation Details

All MyMedicare Registered Practices must keep their Accreditation Details up to date in the MyMedicare system to maintain MyMedicare eligibility and ensure incentive payments are not impacted.

Information for practices on how to update these details is available via Services Australia's Creating Organisation Site Record module .

Practices may reach out to Services Australia or their PHN for additional assistance.

3. Patient Registration - Consent and Record Keeping Requirements

Patients aged 14 years and over must provide consent when registering in MyMedicare. Consent for MyMedicare for patients under 14 is required by a parent or guardian.

Under current MyMedicare policy, staff at aged care facilities or treating doctors are not permitted to complete and sign the MyMedicare registration form on behalf of the patient.

If a patient is incapable of providing consent, a signed consent form from a responsible person is required to ensure compliance with audit and privacy standards. A responsible person refers to an adult who is accompanying the patient or responsible for their care. This may include a parent, guardian, a person with POA or guardianship authority, authorised representative or the patient’s next of kin.

To register a patient with MyMedicare a practice must declare that the individual providing consent has signed and completed an authorised Patient Registration form, and the practice will retain a copy of this form for compliance of record keeping obligations in accordance with federal, state and territory legislation applicable to their practice. A practice also declares that the information provided is true and correct, and they understand that giving false or misleading information is a serious offence.

Only the authorised MyMedicare Registration form available online at the Department’s website can be used to register a patient in MyMedicare. This form is available here .

4. Services Australia – Feedback on Health Professional Education (HPE) Resources

Services Australia is reviewing the suite of MyMedicare Health Professional Education (HPE) resources and they’d like your feedback.

HPE resources are available to help practices and providers understand Services Australia’s programs and services. Information and step-by-step guides are available on a variety of health programs and systems.

Please provide any feedback by email to providersupport@semphn.org.au by Friday, 30 May 2025.

Feedback may include:

The structure of the site – Can you find what you’re looking for? Are things grouped together logically?
The content of the products – Is the information accurate? Is the information detailed enough? Are there missing steps or do you need more screenshots? Do any of the products leave you with more questions than when you started?
Anything you think will make the site more useful to you practice and providers.

For support on MyMedicare, please contact your Provider Support Officer or visit SEMPHN's dedicated MyMedicare page .

Supporting Early Detection: National Cancer Screening Programs and Digital Tools for Primary Care

Wed, 14 May 2025 05:08:01 GMT

Cancer screening saves lives — and general practices across Australia are playing a vital role in improving early detection and outcomes for bowel, cervical and soon, lung cancer.

The National Cancer Screening Register (NCSR) is helping to drive this effort by giving healthcare providers digital access to screening information and enabling the timely submission of clinical data. More than 4,000 general practices have already integrated their clinical software, and over 25,000 healthcare providers have registered for the Healthcare Provider Portal.

Benefits to using NCSR's digital channels

Securely access patient screening information – including overdue and follow-up alerts, to help ensure your patients remain on track.
Stay up to date with patient screening statuses – facilitating proactive conversations about participation and the benefits of early detection.
Facilitate bowel screening test completion – order bowel screening kits for your patients’ and record when a kit has been issued during a consultation.
Submit clinical information – such as colonoscopy, colposcopy, and histopathology results.
Update patient details – to ensure accurate records and effective communication from the national screening programs.
Nominate providers and personal representatives – to improve coordination of patient care.

Practices are already seeing results:

93% of cervical screening histories are now accessed digitally, reducing reliance on manual processes.
94% decrease in faxed screening history requests, streamlining administrative tasks.
22% increase in digitally submitted screening data over the past six months.

Professor Dorota Gertig, Medical Director of the NCSR, highlights the importance of these tools:

“General practice is the frontline of cancer prevention. By integrating with the NCSR, healthcare providers can ensure seamless access to patient screening information — leading to better tracking, timely interventions, and improved outcomes.”

Looking ahead: National Lung Cancer Screening Program

Starting in July 2025 , the National Lung Cancer Screening Program (NLCSP) will introduce low-dose CT scans for high-risk individuals aged 50–70 with a history of tobacco smoking. GPs and requesting practitioners will play a central role in identifying and enrolling eligible patients.

Importantly, the program will deliver screening to rural and remote communities through Heart of Australia’s mobile services, and is being co-designed with the National Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation (NACCHO) and Cancer Australia to improve equity.

“Lung cancer screening will be a game-changer in early detection,” said Prof. Gertig. “Now is the time for practices to get ready by integrating their software or registering for the Healthcare Provider Portal to support eligible patients.”

Get your practice ready

Integrating their clinical software

Practices using Best Practice , MedicalDirector , or Communicare can integrate directly with the NCSR to enable real-time access to screening histories and seamless submission of clinical information within the everyday workflow.

Registering access to the Healthcare Provider Portal

GPs and practice staff that do not use compatible software can register via PRODA for secure access to screening records and program correspondence.
Nurses and medical practice staff who do not have a Medicare Provider number (MPN) can be given delegate access by an existing Healthcare Provider Portal user with an MPN.

To help with onboarding, the NCSR offers a comprehensive Primary Care Onboarding Kit , including step-by-step instructions and walk-through videos.

By using the NCSR’s digital tools, practices are not only improving efficiency, but also helping to reduce deaths from preventable cancers.

MyMedicare updates and reminders

Wed, 14 May 2025 02:37:44 GMT

DoHAC has advised that the accreditation exemption for non-traditional practices choosing to participate in MyMedicare has been extended from 30 June 2025 until 31 December 2026 .

The accreditation exemption is available to non-accredited practices (including sole providers) who deliver general practice services entirely through mobile and outreach models :

in rural settings
in residential aged care
in disability residential settings
to First Nations Australians
to people experiencing homelessness

The extension is in recognition of the new definition of general practice for the purpose of accreditation, which may allow some non-accredited practices to now become accredited. This extension aims to support non-accredited practices in considering their accreditation options under the National General Practice Accreditation Scheme.

Practices currently utilising this MyMedicare exemption will not need to take any action to update the new end date.

Reminders: Turn on your HPOS mailbox notifications

We know you receive a lot of correspondence via your individual and/or organisation Health Professional Online Services (HPOS) mailboxes:

While some of these may be statements or everyday notifications, some of these are important and require action.
Turn on notifications to receive alerts for new messages, to save you having to check regularly for new mail.
Now that the first MyMedicare Incentive is in place, please make sure you action any notifications as required, e.g. failed payments.

Payments (Jan – March 2025 Quarter) & Reassessments

Payments for the MyMedicare General Practice in Aged Care Incentive quarterly assessment for January – March 2025 have been processed and notifications have been sent via Health Professional Online Services (HPOS) mailboxes. The time taken to receive funds is dependent on individual financial institutions.

Remember to check your HPOS notifications for any requiring action, e.g. failed payments due to missing or incorrect bank account details.
Important messages for responsible providers: Add bank account details to HPOS for the MyMedicare program or GPACI payments won’t be able to be received. There are a number of providers who have not yet done this.
Reassessments: There has been a delay in reassessing previous quarterly payments and therefore a delay in adjustments, including additional payments that practices and providers may be expecting. When reassessments have been processed, you will be notified of any adjustments to previous payments via your HPOS mailbox.

Tips on Managing the General Practice in Aged Care Incentive (GPACI):

For GPACI, the relationship between the 3 participants is critical (the practice, the patient, and the Responsible Provider). The assessment process looks for this relationship, and anything that can potentially break or remove any of those relationships will impact GPACI payments for eligible services.

If there is a change in the relationship (e.g. new responsible provider) it is important that the previous relationship is maintained in the patient’s MyMedicare profile. Removing or deleting relationships will impact past payments.

Note: the Responsible Provider may not be the same practitioner as the patient’s nominated Preferred GP (e.g. a registrar may be engaged to deliver RACH services).

Below are tips on managing GPACI correctly and some cautions on what not to do (also attached as infographics). *IMPORTANT: Using actions incorrectly can impact payments, including reassessment of past payments.

For the Incentive Period:

DO select Set period and add a Start Date to add the Incentive to a patient’s MyMedicare profile.
DO NOT add an End Date to the Incentive period. When a patient is withdrawn from the MyMedicare program, the system will automatically end the Incentive period.
DO NOT Amend the Start Date for the Incentive period, unless it was incorrect and you understand the impact to payments.
DO NOT Amend the Incentive period at the start of every new quarter.
DO NOT Delete the Incentive unless it was added to the patient’s MyMedicare profile in error.

For the Responsible Provider:

DO Add the Responsible Provider and add a Start Date .
DO NOT add an End Date for the Responsible Provider. If a new Responsible Provider is added, the system will automatically end the previous Responsible Provider.
DO NOT Amend the Start Date for the Responsible Provider, unless it was incorrect and you understand the impact to payments.
DO NOT Remove the Responsible Provider unless they were added in error.

For the Patient:

DO Register the patient for the MyMedicare program as soon as possible and no later than 28 days after receiving the consent form (or they can register themselves online).
DO Add GPACI to the patient’s MyMedicare profile (as above).
DO Add a new Responsible Provider if required ( only add a Start Date, do not add an End Date). Adding a new Responsible Provider will automatically end the previous one.
DO Add an Incentive periodEnd Date if the Patient asks to no longer be part of GPACI (Note, this is very unlikely).
DO Withdraw the patient if they ask to no longer be part of the MyMedicare program or are deceased. This will automatically end the Incentive.
DO NOT Remove a Responsible Provider. It is important that previous relationships are maintained, even if the patient has a new Responsible Provider added, no longer wants to be involved in GPACI or MyMedicare, or is withdrawn from MyMedicare. Removing responsible providers will impact reassessment of past payments.
DO NOT Move a patient to a new Organisation Site unless you understand the impact to payments. Moving a patient resets their MyMedicare registration date and restarts them in Quarter 1 for GPACI.
DO NOT Delete GPACI from a patient’s MyMedicare profile unless the Incentive was added in error. If the patient is deceased, withdraw them from MyMedicare but do not delete the Incentive.

For support on MyMedicare, please contact your Provider Support Officer or visit SEMPHN's dedicated MyMedicare page .

Coming soon: New digital referral system for Community Palliative Care Services

Wed, 07 May 2025 23:17:48 GMT

We’re excited to announce SEMPHN’s partnership with Consultmed to enhance the digital referral pathways for Community Palliative Care services in south east Melbourne.

The collaboration will integrate Consultmed’s digital referral platform with PalCare, a leading software provider for palliative care users across the SEMPHN region

From next month, referrals to Palliative Care South East and Peninsula Home Hospice will become available through the Consultmed eReferral platform – a secure digital tool designed to reduce administrative workload and improve timely access to care.

What's changing?

The new referral process will be fully digital and will integrate with your existing practice management software – Best Practice, Medical Director , and (soon) ZedMed . The digital referral system will allow you to:

Auto-populate patient and clinical details
Submit referrals securely
Track the progress of referrals in real time
Communicate directly with palliative care services for updates and follow-up.

Why it matters

General practitioners are central to connecting patients with community palliative care – especially as demand for services grows. However, current referral processes are time-consuming and often lead to delays that affect patient care. Moving to a digital platform helps remove those barriers by:

Eliminating unnecessary paperwork
Reducing follow-up calls and emails
Ensuring Community Palliative Care Services receive complete, high-quality referrals faster.

Ultimately, this means patients can be connected with vital services sooner – supporting better outcomes and more coordinated care for patients with a life-limiting illness.

What you can do now

We’re asking practices to get ready ahead of the go-live date by registering early and familiarising themselves with the Consultmed platform.

To get started:

Visit app.consultmed.co
Create a secure account
Explore the available guides and integration steps.

For account setup or technical assistance, the Consultmed team can provide support via the Contact Us page .

If you have questions about the change or what it means for your practice, please reach out to Sue Johns (SEMPHN Project Coordinator – Palliative Care) at palliativecare@semphn.org.au or talk to your Provider Support Officer .

Winter Planning: Encouraging influenza vaccination ahead of peak flu season

Wed, 07 May 2025 23:14:24 GMT

As we head into the colder months, general practices across south east Melbourne are encouraged to promote influenza vaccinations – particularly for those most vulnerable.

The 2025 flu season has arrived early, with confirmed cases already outpacing averages for this time last year. This has significant implications for general practice and community settings.

Why are flu rates higher this year?

There are a number of contributing factors driving this year’s spike in influenza cases. These include:

Waning population immunity , partly due to low flu activity and vaccination uptake in recent years
Changes in public behaviour , including vaccine complacency, a reduced perception of the need for annual vaccinations, and practical barriers to accessing a vaccination site
Vaccine misinformation , which continues to impact confidence in flu and COVID-19 vaccination programs.

These challenges offer an important opportunity for health professionals to re-engage patients in vaccine conversations. Remind patients that protection from previous vaccinations wanes over time, and that annual influenza vaccines are updated to target the most common strains expected each season.

When is the best time to get vaccinated?

April and May remain the best time to administer the flu vaccine, ideally ahead of the peak season in June and July. Immunity takes approximately two weeks to develop, so early vaccination provides the best window for protection – particularly for older adults, young children, and people with chronic health conditions.

Priority groups

It’s important to prioritise vulnerable groups who are most at risk of serious illness from influenza. These include:

Adults aged 65 years and over
Children aged under 5 years
People with chronic conditions, including respiratory, cardiac and metabolic disorders
Pregnant women (who may also be eligible for RSV vaccination).

Practices can prioritise these groups through:

Opportunistic discussions during consultations
SMS campaigns or recall systems targeting priority patients
Posters and resources in waiting rooms and outside clinics.

Don’t forget children under 5

According to national data, only one in four children were vaccinated last year. A recent study by the National Centre for Immunisation Research and Surveillance (NCIRS) identified both structural and attitudinal barriers among parents. This presents a critical opportunity for GPs to talk and raise awareness with parents about the risks of influenza in young children.

Offering opportunistic vaccinations

For eligible patients, a flu vaccination can also provide a good opportunity to offer a COVID-19 booster vaccination , especially among those at higher risk of severe illness. COVID vaccines can be safely co-administered with flu vaccines, providing additional protection leading into the colder months.

You may also consider discussing the RSV vaccination where appropriate, especially for pregnant women, with the maternal RSV vaccine now free under the National Immunisation Program (NIP).

Billing and MBS information

Here are some key billing considerations:

GPs can only bill for the time they spend face-to-face with a patient for the flu vaccination. A routine flu examination would generally be a level A.
If combining with any other medical issue, you can bill a level B
If providing advice and/or administering a COVID-19 vaccine, item 93644 can also be billed ( please note , that from 1 July 2025 COVID-19 vaccine support items will cease - learn more )
Practice nurses can bill item 10997 for patients with a current GP management plan for a chronic condition such as diabetes, respiratory or cardiac disease who would benefit from the flu vaccination.
Item 10990 can also be added for eligible patients.

Please visit MBS online for further information.

Further information and resources

Australian Immunisation Handbook
Department of Health
Better Health Channel
OneLink for vaccine ordering information and logistics

What’s Your Plan? National Palliative Care Week 2025

Wed, 07 May 2025 05:31:51 GMT

National Palliative Care Week runs from Sunday 11 to Saturday 17 May 2025, marking 30 years of national conversations about the importance of quality palliative care for all Australians.

This year’s theme, “What’s Your Plan?” , is a timely reminder to patients, families, and health professionals to think about and discuss what matters most at the end of life. These conversations—and the plans that follow—are vital to ensuring that people receive care aligned with their values, preferences, and dignity.

Every day in Australia, approximately 400 people die of a terminal illness , many without access to the palliative care they need. The role of general practitioners and primary care teams is central to changing this.

At SEMPHN, we fund and support a range of initiatives aimed at improving access to coordinated, compassionate, and community-based palliative care.

Our key palliative care supports include:

Advance Care Planning

Advance care planning allows individuals to make decisions about the care they would—or would not—want to receive in the event they become seriously ill and can no longer communicate their wishes. It’s a fundamental part of quality palliative care and shared decision-making.

Explore our Advance Care Planning page for guides, forms, and information.

Palliative Care Access to Core Medicines (PCAM) Project

One major barriers to accessing palliative care medicines to locating a local prescribing pharmacy with available stock. The PCAM project, delivered in partnership with the Pharmaceutical Society of Australia and Melbourne’s metropolitan PHNs, helps overcome this barrier by:

Creating a Core Medicines List (CML) for palliative care
Mapping participating community pharmacies stocking these medicines
Supporting health professionals with free webinars and education

Find out more on our PCAM page .

Community Palliative Care Visits for General Practice

To better integrate general practice with community-based palliative care, SEMPHN and the Southern Metropolitan Region Palliative Care Consortium (SMRPCC) offer practices the opportunity to host in-person visits from community palliative care teams.

These visits provide:

Education on referral pathways
Clinical advice and consultation
Resources to support earlier identification of patients with palliative care needs.

There are just 4 spots remaining in this popular program! Request a visit via our Palliative Care webpage or express your interest here .

Why this matters

For health professionals, particularly GPs, this week marks a powerful opportunity to start conversations that can shape someone’s quality of life when living with a life-limiting or terminal illness.

Support and resources

Visit our Palliative Care webpage for tools, resources, and referral guidance.
For further support or more information, please contact our Palliative Care Team at palliativecare@semphn.org.au .
Learn more about the national campaign at palliativecare.org.au

CCM Activation Series - Activity 3

Tue, 06 May 2025 23:43:28 GMT

Activity 3 takes a focus on enhancing MyMedicare patient engagement and registration communications.

Activity outcomes

Understand how MyMedicare is evolving and the current and future benefits.

Develop a shared practice team perspective of how MyMedicare aligns with your practice’s approach to patient care.
Develop key messages, benefits and talking points that your practice team can use to consistently communicate to patients about Chronic Conditions Management and MyMedicare.
Develop a plan for targeting patient populations using different communication mediums and channels to increase MyMedicare registration for regular patients of your practice.

Click here to download your copy of the Activity 3 slide pack with activities for your practice and practice team.

If you would like support to implement this activity, please contact your designated Provider Support Officer or email providersupport@semphn.org.au .

You can also find other activities previously released as part of the CCM Activation Series below.

Activity 1 - The aim of this activity is to engage patients returning to your practice for Chronic Disease Management Plans and team care arrangements in MyMedicare, and regular reviews in the future.

Activity 2 – The aim of this activity is to raise awareness among your practice team of MyMedicare and Chronic Conditions Management changes, and support your team to explore and document their roles in both MyMedicare and Chronic Conditions Management.

New Alfred Health eReferrals available

Wed, 16 Apr 2025 02:10:38 GMT

Alfred Health has rolled out a new eReferral solution to improve the referral experience of patients, referrers and clinicians.

The new eReferral system – provided by Consultmed – will be available for referrals into Specialist Outpatient Clinic Services at The Alfred, Sandringham Hospital and Caulfield Hospital Home, Acute and Community services.

Consultmed eReferrals will provide an enhanced user experience, making it quicker and easier for you to send and receive referrals securely. Referrers benefit from:

Pre-population of patient details
In-built referral guidelines and Statewide Referral Criteria requirements
Simple attachment of reports, images and results
Acknowledgement receipt
Copy of referral automatically stored in your patients record
Real-time updates and notifications to keep you informed about the status of your referrals.

An additional ‘Advice & Guidance’ feature will allow clinicians to seek the advice of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Gastroenterology specialists via secure asynchronous digital communication to support management of their patients.

Consultmed integrates with Best Practice and Medical Director. Referrers with other practice management software (PMS) types will be able to utilise the Consultmed web portal to send and track electronic referrals.

Please go to app.consultmed.co to setup a free and secure Consultmed account.

For account setup or technical assistance, please contact the Consultmed team via the Contact Us page.

Some Head to Health services are now Medicare Mental Health: What you need to know

Tue, 15 Apr 2025 05:54:42 GMT

The Australian Government is introducing Medicare Mental Health , a rebranded national mental health initiative that delivers free support through clinics, national intake phone service and interactive website.

What’s changing?

The Head to Health website and phone service are now branded Medicare Mental Health .
Existing services remain unchanged – same expert support, same free access , just under a new name and branding.
A national rollout will see 61 Medicare Mental Health Centres established by 30 June 2026.
In Victoria, 12 Head to Health clinics , including those in Officer and Berwick , will continue to operate under their current name but form part of the Medicare Mental Health network.

Key information for GPs and health professionals

Health professionals can continue to refer clients as usual. Here’s what you need to know:

Referrals and processes remain unchanged.
The only difference is the name – you’ll now see “Medicare Mental Health” on some referral pathways and promotional material.
Refer patients to:
Website: medicarementalhealth.gov.au – for mental health information, self-referrals, and service navigation.
Phone service: 1800 595 212 – to speak with a local mental health clinician for advice and connection to appropriate services.
Open weekdays, 8:30am–5pm (not a crisis line).
Head to Health clinics in SEMPHN (Officer and Berwick) are still operating under the same name and accepting referrals via the same phone line.
Marketing materials featuring the new branding will be available soon for practices and health professionals.

Behind the scenes

Across Australia, primary health networks are working closely with the Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care to ensure that the transition from Head to Health to Medicare Mental Health is seamless for providers and patients.

Need support or have questions?

For clinical advice or referral support, contact SEMPHN's Referral and Access team on 1800 862 363 (Weekdays, 8:30 am–4:30 pm).

[CLOSED] Opportunity to enhance your Multidisciplinary Team Care

Mon, 07 Apr 2025 04:40:20 GMT

South Eastern Melbourne Primary Health Network (SEMPHN) is inviting small or solo general practices in Frankston and the Mornington Peninsula to apply for funding to implement Multidisciplinary Team Care (MDT) .

This tender opportunity is a chance for eligible general practices to enhance their capacity to provide comprehensive care.

SEMPHN’s 2023 Health Needs Assessment identified Frankston and Mornington Peninsula as priority Local Government Areas due to higher proportions of residents:

With multiple chronic conditions and
Who are disadvantaged and require income support.

What's involved?

Funding of up to $134,878 (ex GST) over two years based on tiered funding packages will be available for up to 15 general practices to recruit allied health professionals, nurse practitioners, nurses, midwives, or Aboriginal health workers or practitioners.

The program aims to:

Develop and implement multidisciplinary teams that meet the specific needs of the community.
Set up reporting processes to monitor progress.
Evaluate how these MDT models enhance access to a wider range of primary care services in general practice.

The program's service design involved a co-design process, which engaged eligible small and solo practices in these LGAs to gather input on the preferred local model of care. The feedback indicated a preference for an 'in-reach' approach, meaning referrals and patient care coordination happen within the practice.

Applying for this tender

To be considered for this tender, applicants must:

Be a provider which currently delivers general practice services in the LGAs of Mornington Peninsula or Frankston
Is a small or solo general practice with 4 or fewer general practitioner FTE roles
Be an RACGP Accredited general practice
Be able to commence MDT service preparation activities from 1 July 2025, and recruit MDT health professional(s) by 30 September 2025
Have a consulting room space/slot available during the day or after hours for the MDT health professional/s.

Additional detailed eligibility is provided in the tender specifications.

SEMPHN will prioritise submissions that strongly reflect sustainable approaches to achieving the key program objectives.

All questions and tenders MUST be submitted via SEMPHN's eProcure by the dates below.

Key Dates

3 April 2025 : Tender opens
1 May 2025 : Closing date for questions via eProcure
8 May 2025 (3 pm) : Closing date for responses via eProcure
11 - 12 June 2025 : Interviews with shortlisted respondents (if required)
1 July 2025: Establish MDT service
By 30 September 2025: Recruit MDT health professional(s)
30 June 2027: Contract end date.

New headspace launches in South Melbourne

Thu, 03 Apr 2025 23:44:29 GMT

On Tuesday 1 April we were delighted to attend the official opening of the new headspace centre in Dorcas Street, South Melbourne - a beautiful, large, bright, and welcoming space, designed to accommodate the needs of its diverse community.

headspace South Melbourne, which opened its doors on Thursday 5 December 2024, has 10 consult rooms, two group rooms, a welcoming ‘hang out’ space that young people can drop into without an appointment, a commercial kitchen and even laundry facilities that can be used by young people.   

Formalities and speeches by Josh Burns MP Federal Member for Macnamara, Jason Trethowan, CEO, headspace National, Anna Robinson, CEO AccessHC, Annette Mercuri Deputy Board Chair, AccessHC and Quinn Pawson, CEO, SEMPHN, were followed by tours and fun activities hosted by the Youth Advisory Group (YAG).

South Melbourne is part of the Local Government Area (LGA) of the City of Port Phillip, home to approximately 13,000 young people (12-25 years) with more than  1,500 young people living in low-income households.

The team is excited to work together, and work with young people, to deliver as a much-needed mental health and well-being service for young people and support for their families.

In the four months since opening, they have already received a wide range of referrals: walk ins, self-referrals, and referrals from other agencies like schools and sporting clubs.

Founded on principles of welcome, hope and empathy, headspace South Melbourne is focused on delivering effective, accessible, and inclusive services for all young people, and their family and friends. These include support for mental health, physical and sexual health, alcohol and other drugs, education, employment, and housing.

headspace South Melbourne is delivered by Access Health and Community in partnership with Better Health Network , South Port Community Housing Group , Ngwala Willumbong Aboriginal Corporation , Alfred Health , City of Port Phillip and Inner Eastern Local Learning and Employment Network .

All headspace centres are funded by the Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care .

The administration of funding is carried out locally by Primary Health Networks (PHNs).

Pictured above - Anna Robinson (AccessHC CEO), Aafrin and Texa (headspace Youth Advisory Group), Jason Trethowan (headspace National CEO), Quinn Pawson (SEMPHN CEO).

Results are in! Doctors in Secondary Schools evaluated

Tue, 01 Apr 2025 23:28:48 GMT

The Victorian Government’s Doctors in Secondary Schools (DiSS) program has provided health care treatment and support to more than 24,000 high school students between 2017 and 2023, according to a recent evaluation by the Victorian Department of Education.

DiSS ensures that a GP and practice nurse are present weekly during school terms at 100 Victorian secondary schools identified as most in need. The program complements student wellbeing initiatives by improving access to healthcare, promoting preventative health, and enhancing health literacy.

Since its inception in 2017, all six Victorian Primary Health Networks (PHNs) have been involved in commissioning general practices to deliver DiSS services in selected schools. South Eastern Melbourne PHN (SEMPHN) has played a key role in this initiative, ensuring the program reaches students in 19 secondary schools across its catchment including:

Hallam Senior Secondary College
Noble Park Secondary College
Narre Warren South P-12 College
Rosebud Secondary College
McClelland Secondary College
Mornington Secondary College
Patterson River Secondary College
Hampton Park Secondary College
Monterey Secondary College
Carrum Downs Secondary College
Pakenham Secondary College
Cranbourne East Secondary College
Keysborough Secondary College
Cranbourne Secondary College
Dandenong High School
Fountain Gate Secondary College
Gleneagles Secondary College (Endeavour Hills)
Lyndale Secondary College (Dandenong North)
Oakwood School

All schools in the region are currently matched with healthcare providers, ensuring that students have consistent access to medical support each week during school terms.

Local impact

Since the program’s inception, GPs in the SEMPHN region have conducted 19,228 consultations, including 2,932 in 2024 alone. Additionally, a total of 6,463 referrals have been made between 2017 and 2025, demonstrating the program’s effectiveness in connecting students with further healthcare support when needed.

The Department of Education’s latest evaluation, published in February, concluded that DiSS, “is highly valued and continues to provide an effective avenue for reaching young people and providing preventative health interventions and primary care.”

The report highlighted that the program not only improves health literacy and health outcomes for students but also commended DiSS practitioners for prioritising comprehensive care over the volume of consultations.

SEMPHN’s Executive Director, Commissioning and Capacity Building, Caz Healy, welcomed the evaluation results, stating:

“The DiSS program provides young people with access to support and treatment for physical and mental health issues,” she said.

“This means they don’t have to navigate the challenge of visiting a GP clinic elsewhere, and they also have a safe space to talk about any health concerns they might not feel comfortable discussing at home.”

“This initiative is a strong example of collaboration between Victorian Primary Health Networks, individual schools, local general practitioners, and the Department of Education, all working together to improve the wellbeing of thousands of students.”

With its strong presence in south east Melbourne, DiSS continues to be a critical program providing accessible and preventative healthcare to secondary school students, reducing barriers to care, and supporting young people in prioritising their health and wellbeing.

Read the Doctors in Secondary Schools 2023 Evaluation Key Findings .

Bulk billing benefits for all Australian General Practices

Thu, 27 Mar 2025 02:33:05 GMT

From 1 November 2025 every general practice will benefit from expanded eligibility for MBS bulk billing incentives to all Australians with a Medicare card.

The expanded eligibility for the existing MBS bulk billing incentive means that practices which bulk bill will now receive incentives for all Australians with a Medicare card. Previously, these incentives were only available for children under 16 years of age and patients with a Commonwealth concession card.

Additionally, from 1 November practices will be able to choose if they wish to participate in the new B ulk Billing Practice Incentive Program .

New information on both of these bulk billing measures is now available on the Department of Health and Aged Care website including frequently asked questions, and details on eligible MBS services.

Information about the new Bulk Billing Practice Incentive Program

Practices participating in the new Bulk Billing Practice Incentive Program (the Program) will receive an additional 12.5% incentive payment on every $1 of MBS benefit earned from eligible services , split between the GP and the practice.

Participating practices must bulk bill every eligible service for every patient, to receive the incentive payment. This incentive payment will be in addition to MBS Benefits paid ( including bulk billing incentives ).

To participate in the Program, practices will need to:

Bulk bill all eligible services
Advertise their participation in the Program
Be MyMedicare registered (note that practices that are not already MyMedicare registered and wish to participate in the Program will be exempt from MyMedicare accreditation requirements).

To register in the Program, practices will need to:

General Practices can register to participate in the Program from 1 November 2025 .

For support on MyMedicare, please contact your Provider Support Officer or visit SEMPHN's dedicated MyMedicare page.

Celebrating our catchment's diversity during Harmony Week

Wed, 26 Mar 2025 23:28:19 GMT

Harmony Week is a time to celebrate Australia’s cultural diversity and the rich contributions of people from all backgrounds. At SEMPHN, our region reflects this incredible diversity.

Our most recent 2023 Health Needs Assessment has highlighted that more than one quarter (26%) of residents are born overseas, with the top five birth countries being: India, China, the Philippines, Vietnam and Malaysia.

The south east is home to a large population of refugees and asylum seekers, with a large majority settling in Casey and Greater Dandenong.

Greater Dandenong also has the highest proportion of people born overseas in Victoria and the second highest in Australia at 63.4%

Our communities are linguistically diverse—over 220 languages are spoken across the region with Mandarin, Greek and Punjabi being the main languages spoken in the SEMPHN catchment.

SEMPHN GPs provide primary care to people from more than 250 ethnic and cultural backgrounds.

Harmony Week - “Learning to see our reflections in each other”

During Harmony Week, our diverse workforce came together at our Taste of Harmony morning tea to celebrate the gift of our diversity.

We shared stories about our different backgrounds, sampled food from various cultures in our teams and our catchment and acknowledged the Bunurong and Wurundjeri peoples of the Kulin Nation, the Traditional Owners and Custodians of the lands, waters, and skies on which we work.

It was a wonderful opportunity to “learn to see our reflections in each other” and "from the image bank of others" Quinn Pawson, SEMPHN CEO.

Commissioning of services for culturally and linguistically diverse communities

A core function of SEMPHN is the commissioning of services in response to the changing priorities and needs of our Priority populations which include children, young people, LGBTIQA+ communities and culturally and linguistically diverse communities.

As population profiles change, so does the need for different blends of primary health care. One of SEMPHN’s core objectives is to ensure, within our resources, that service providers are commissioned to supply the right care, at the right place and time.

[CLOSED] Opportunity for innovative suicide prevention services

Wed, 12 Mar 2025 22:17:48 GMT

South Eastern Melbourne Primary Health Network (SEMPHN) is inviting tender submissions for up to four innovative suicide prevention services to reduce community suicide risk and distress.

This important initiative aims to address the urgent needs of at-risk populations through a community-led approach, integrating prevention, intervention, and postvention strategies.

In 2023, Australia saw 3,214 suicide deaths, with rates in south east Melbourne reaching their highest level since 2000.

What's involved?

Services to address one or more stages of the suicide prevention continuum (prevention, intervention, and postvention) and should include Targeted Regional Initiatives for Suicide Prevention (TRISP) and other activities that strengthen community resilience, with a preference for one service delivered by an Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisation (ACCO).

Services have the opportunity to receive up to $300,000 (ex GST) per service, including establishment costs
Proposals under $200,000 (excluding GST), including establishment costs, will not be considered
ACCO submissions will be assessed regardless of amount.

Applying for this tender

To be considered for this tender, applicants must:

Be a provider that currently provides services or delivers relevant activities within the SEMPHN catchment
Deliver the proposed services/activities within the geographical boundaries of SEMPHN
Be able to establish and deliver services in the Financial Year 2025/26.

Detailed eligibility is provided in the tender specifications.

SEMPHN will prioritise submissions that reflect evidence-based, innovative, and locally tailored approaches to achieving better mental health and suicide prevention outcomes.

All questions and tenders MUST be submitted via SEMPHN's eProcure by the dates below.

Key Dates

12 March 2025 : Tender opens
7 April 2025 : Closing date for questions via eProcure
15 April 2025 (3 pm) : Closing date for responses
26 - 27 May 2025 : Interviews with shortlisted respondents (if required)
From 1 July 2025: Service commencement date
30 June 2026: Contract end date.

Australian-first anal cancer screening guidelines for people living with HIV launched

Wed, 12 Mar 2025 00:48:15 GMT

Australia's first national anal cancer screening guidelines for people living with HIV have been released, providing a critical framework around screening and treatment for healthcare providers.

Globally, people living with HIV have the highest incidence rate of anal squamous cell carcinoma, the most common type of anal cancer. The guidelines, launched by ASHM and the second of their kind in the world, will address a key gap in available resources for clinicians.

Professor Jason Ong, a sexual health physician and ASHM Vice President, said the new guidelines will help build clinicians’ awareness of the warning signs of anal cancer and how to screen for it amongst this priority group.

"Men who have sex with men who are living with HIV have an anal cancer incidence rate over 60 times higher than the general population. Evidence-based screening is essential to close this gap," said Dr Ong.

These guidelines equip healthcare providers with the latest recommendations for screening, diagnosis, and management of precursor lesions of anal cancer in people living with HIV— ensuring early intervention and better patient outcomes,” he said.

Currently, anal squamous cell cancer is often diagnosed at an advanced stage due to a lack of obvious early-stage symptoms. The guidelines advocate for proactive screening to drive earlier detections and a better prognosis for patients.

In Australia, high-risk HPV testing is the primary screening test for anal cancer, with the guidelines also recommending that screening includes physical examinations and a thorough medical history.

"Regular digital anorectal exams and anal cytology or HPV tests can detect abnormalities before they progress to cancer. Following these guidelines means saving lives through early detection,” said Dr Ong.

The Anal Cancer Screening Guidelines for People Living with HIV are available online at www.analcancerscreening.guidelines.org.au .

New measures to support bulk billing

Wed, 05 Mar 2025 05:17:59 GMT

On 23 Feb 2025, the Government announced intentions to expand eligibility for the bulk billing incentive to all Australians and introduce a bulk billing practice incentive program for practices registered with MyMedicare, with commencement from 1 Nov 2025.

Information on bulk billing incentive eligibility:

The new measure expands eligibility for the bulk billing incentive to all Australians with a Medicare card , expanding the existing incentive program which is currently limited to children under 16 and Commonwealth Concession Card holders. This measure will be available for all practices to participate in from 1 Nov 2025. More information can be found via the following link - Strengthening Medicare with more bulk billing .

Information on the Bulk Billing Practice Incentive Program (PIP):

The new practice incentive program (PIP) will introduce a 12.5% loading payment on every $1 of MBS benefit earned from GP NRA (non referred attendance) services, to be split between the GP and the practice. Details on the split are yet to be released.

To participate in the Program, a GP practice will need to:

Commit to bulk bill all GP NRA (non referred attendance) services
Advertise their participation in the Program within the practice and on Healthdirect’s National Health Services Directory
Be registered with MyMedicare (accreditation requirements will be waived for 2 years for practices joining the Program).

Practices would need to register in the Organisation Register and further details on the registration process are yet to be published.

Payments will commence in 2026 and will be issued quarterly.

A fact sheet has been published on the Department of Health and Aged Care’s website and can be found via the following link - Strengthening Medicare with more bulk billing .

For support on MyMedicare, please contact your Provider Support Support Officer or email providersupport@semphn.org.au .

CCM Activation Series - Activity 2

Fri, 21 Feb 2025 02:49:08 GMT

Activity 2 of the Chronic Condition Management (CCM) Activation Series will focus on planning with your practice team to ensure they aware and prepared for the upcoming changes.

This activity aims to raise awareness among your practice team of MyMedicare, Chronic Conditions Management changes, and support your team to explore their roles in both MyMedicare and Chronic Conditions Management. By exploring and defining these roles, your practice team can work collaboratively to prepare for change and develop processes, systems and skills needed to succeed. This process will help ease your team through change and provide a shared document that can help your team to identify and discuss anything that isn’t quite working as planned, explore changes and update the document to keep everyone on the same page. This approach will allow your team to adapt and improve and empower each team member in their own role.

Activity outcomes

Your practice team understands MyMedicare (Voluntary Patient Registration)
Your practice team understands the proposed Chronic Conditions Management changes
Your practice team roles in MyMedicare and Chronic Conditions Management are well defined, and each team member has a clear role and responsibilities.

Activities

1) Engage your practice team to inform them about MyMedicare and the changes to Chronic Conditions Management.

Team meeting or quick lunch catch up to communicate the changes
Post an update in the practice staff room
Send an email to the practice team with the critical information

The MyMedicare GP Toolkit provides a good summary of the current benefits of MyMedicare for General Practices. The toolkit also includes a range of helpful resources your practice can use to communicate with patients.

2) Engage with your practice team to explore and document team roles and responsibilities related to MyMedicare and Chronic Conditions Management

Explore roles and responsibilities with the practice team in a meeting or quick lunchtime discussions
Document agreed roles and responsibilities and communicate this with your team
Discuss and document how each team member will incorporate their responsibilities into their workday and work week
Schedule a time to review your documented roles and responsibilities

An example of potential roles and responsibilities for team members is available here . You can use this as a starting point for discussion or download this blank template to openly seek contributions from your practice team.

Help shape the future of lung cancer screening

Wed, 19 Feb 2025 05:23:00 GMT

Melbourne University is inviting General Practices to participate in the ReadytoScreen randomised control trial, an important initiative to support the implementation of lung cancer screening in your community.

The National Lung Cancer Screening Program will begin on 1 July 2025 , and eligible participants will need a referral from their GP to be screened. Early detection through screening is proven to significantly improve outcomes for patients at high risk of lung cancer.

Is your practice prepared?

The ReadytoScreen trial aims to identify the most effective strategies for engaging eligible patients to take up lung cancer screening. Melbourne University wants to understand how communication and information from a patient’s general practice can increase participation rates, and how practices can be better supported to deliver the National Lung Cancer Screening Program . They will also explore the barriers and enablers to implementing the program in your practice and across Australia.

What's involved in participating?

By joining the ReadytoScreen trial, your practice will:

Be supported to identify patients who may be eligible for screening.
Gain access to Future Health Today, a point-of-care clinical decision support tool, integrated into your existing software.
Receive a list of patients interested in being contacted for eligibility assessment.
Be supported onsite by one of our research nurses.
Receive $2000 reimbursement per practice, with clinical staff eligible to claim up to 4.5 continuing professional development (CPD) hours for participation.

These activities will ensure that your practice is prepared for roll-out of the National Lung Cancer Screening Program from July 1 2025.

Eligibility Criteria

To participate, your practice must:

Have at least two full-time equivalent GPs and a practice manager (or delegate).
Use electronic medical record (EMR) software (e.g., Best Practice, Medical Director, ZedMed) and be able to extract patient cohort lists.
Have the ability to send SMS reminders to patients.

For more information, please email ready-to-screen@unimelb.edu.au or call 0459 867 617. A member of Melbourne University's research team will reach out to discuss your involvement.

Support program for patients with vulnerable and complex care needs

Wed, 05 Feb 2025 01:00:00 GMT

A new way to support people with increased vulnerabilities and complex health needs.

South Eastern Melbourne Primary Health Network (SEMPHN) is pleased to announce a new partnership with Sandringham Ambulatory Care Centre (SACC), supporting them in delivering the South East Care Pathway (SECP) program.

About the program

The program provides crucial support for patients with vulnerable and complex care needs who are at risk of hospital admission or following hospital discharge.

The service is delivered mainly via telehealth and aims to:

reduce avoidable emergency department visits,
support the safe discharge of patients to and from healthcare services
facilitate the transition of care between primary, secondary and tertiary care providers for ongoing management.

How does it work?

An initial triage call with a patient determines the care pathway they will require while with the program. Depending on the needs of the patient, there are two approaches: passive and active monitoring.

Eligibility

The service is available across the South Eastern Melbourne PHN catchment. The program serves people who are clinically or socially vulnerable and meet one or more of the following:

require closer health monitoring than routinely available in primary care
have an increased risk of hospital presentation or difficulties accessing primary care
require transition support from hospital to primary/community care.

The program is funded until 30 June 2025.

Get free help faster with Victoria’s Urgent Care Services

Tue, 04 Feb 2025 03:30:00 GMT

Get the right care at the right time with Victoria's range of Urgent Care Services available across Victoria.

The services aim to reduce the demand on hospital emergency departments by providing primary care services for urgent conditions that do not require an emergency response.

Victoria's Urgent Care Services includes:

Urgent Care Clinics open late and on weekends
Video call with Virtual Emergency Care 24/7
Phone 1300 60 60 24 Nurse-on-Call 24/7

For more information on Urgent Care Clinics available in south east Melbourne and their opening hours, please visit SEMPHN's Medicare Urgent Care Clinics page.

What are the benefits?

Free and open to all, no Medicare card needed
No appointment or GP referral required
Staffed by urgent care doctors and nurses
Faster care with no waiting in a hospital emergency department

Further resources

Please visit the Better Health Channel's Urgent Care Services Victoria page for further information on the services.

The page provides:

Video explaining the available Urgent Care Services
Fact sheets available in English, Arabic, Chinese (simplified and traditional), Greek, Italian, Punjabi, Turkish and Vietnamese
Urgent care options with links to more information on the available Urgent Care Service options
Emergency care options for life-threatening situations
Everyday care options for non-urgent matters.

MyMedicare Program Guidelines now available

Thu, 30 Jan 2025 04:02:04 GMT

The MyMedicare Program Guidelines contain detailed information and guidance for practices, general practitioners and patients who wish to voluntarily register with the MyMedicare Program.

The MyMedicare Program Guidelines provide further information regarding:

The Services Australia Organisation Register ; a streamlined practice registration tool connecting a general practice, GPs, patients, MBS claiming and incentives in the one central system. The guidelines describe how the Organisation Register supports MyMedicare and new, existing and future health programs.
Aboriginal Community Controlled Services or Aboriginal Medical Services can register their organisation sites under a ‘Hub and Spoke’ Model , whereby practices operating under this model are considered as a singular organisation for the purposes of MyMedicare Registration.
General Practice Accreditation requirements and exemptions . Note that accreditation exemptions for non-traditional practices are in effect until 30 June 2025.
Provider Registration Requirements outlining which providers are eligible
Patient Registration Requirements including patient eligibility, exemptions to MBS service requirements, and more on patient registration
Patient Consent of MyMedicare
Withdrawing from MyMedicare
MBS Items linked to MyMedicare
Incentive Programs Linked to MyMedicare
My Health Record and MyMedicare

CCM Activation Series - Activity 1

Thu, 30 Jan 2025 03:49:49 GMT

Prepare your general practice for changes to the Chronic Condition Management (CCM) MBS items by participating in our Activation Series, starting with Activity 1.

As the new year rolls around, many of your existing patients with chronic disease management plans will be due for a new chronic disease management plan and team care arrangements. Patients and practices often time chronic disease management plans with the start of the calendar year, when allied health items available through team care renew (items 10950 to 10970 and 81100 to 81125).

This presents your practice with an opportunity to reduce your future workload, and take essential small and easy steps toward preparing for Chronic Conditions Management (CCM) MBS item changes scheduled for 1 July 2025.

Two of the major changes signaled include MyMedicare Registration, and more regular reviews for patients with chronic conditions.

The following activities therefore focus firstly on strengthening patient-practice relationships by registering Chronic Disease Management Patients for MyMedicare, and routine scheduling of patients for Chronic Disease Management Reviews.

There are a range of ideas outlined below for you to use to tailor and modify to develop your own plan for change at your practice. We recommend you document your plan using a Plan-Do-Study-Act Template.

Activity Outcomes

Register all returning Chronic Disease Management Patients for MyMedicare with your practice prior to, or at their next Chronic Disease Management appointment.
Develop a process for booking review appointments for any patient you put onto a Chronic Conditions Management Plan, or with an existing Chronic Disease Management Plan.
Develop a clear communication for why review appointments are important to attend for your practice team and patients (including if there are out of pocket costs for the patient).
Develop a process to manage missed or cancelled patient review appointments.

Activity Ideas

1) Register all returning Chronic Disease Management Patients for MyMedicare with your practice prior to, or at their next Chronic Disease Management appointment.

Prompt your patients to register in advance of their appointments

Send an SMS to all patients with a scheduled Chronic Disease Management Plan encouraging them to register with your General Practice before their appointment using Medicare Online or print and complete a MyMedicare Registration form to bring to their appointment, or
Invite patients to attend their appointment early to complete a MyMedicare Registration Form in the practice waiting room.

Encourage your patients to register at their next appointment

Check each patients’ MyMedicare Registration status with your practice when they present for their appointment or the day before their appointment
Provide a MyMedicare Registration QR code or MyMedicare Registration form when patients present to the practice, and encourage them to complete their registration, or discuss registration as part of their Chronic Disease Manegement appointment
Have your practice nurse or Aboriginal Health Practitioner assist the patient with completing the registration for as part of their Chronic Disease appointment. This provides an opportunity for a conversation about expectations of an ongoing care relationship so that the practice can support the patient’s health journey in the long term.

2) Develop a process for booking review appointments for any patient you put onto a Chronic Conditions Management Plan, or with an existing Chronic Disease Management Plan.

Determine your approach to review appointments. You may decide to adopt a standard 3-month reviews or 6-month review approach, or to require the clinical team to advise on the review timelines informed by their clinical judgement on a case-by-case basis.
Develop workflows for reception – to ensure that as the patient is handed over to reception before they leave your practice reception has an action to schedule their next appointment, understands the timeframe for review to inform scheduling, and communicates the appointment time and date clearly to the patient (SMS, or reminder card, or other)
Develop a process for appointment reminders in leadup to review appointments – frequency (e.g. 1 week and 24 hours) and modality (phone call or SMS) to ensure your attendance rates for review appointments remain high. Include message for patient to check MyMedicare Online to ensure they are registered with your practice, document any questions to bring to the appointment.

3) Develop a clear communication for why review appointments are important to attend for your practice team and patients (including if there are out of pocket costs for the patient).

Develop a process to document priorities and actions due for the next review appointment in the patients’ medical record in your practice software as part of all Chronic Disease Management Plans and Reviews. For example, document any:

Outcomes, goals or targets the patient has for their review appointment
Education or points of discussion planned for the review appointment
Tests or pathology due that need to be scheduled
Referrals that need to be completed.

Communicate the importance of the review appointment with your patient and their carers (if appropriate) including:

Emphasise the importance of the review plan focusing on actions for the patient and the clinical reasons why the review is needed as detailed in the plan with your patient at the conclusion of the appointment.
Provide a copy of the care plan and review appointment plan for the patient to take with them.
Outline expectations and processes to re-schedule review appointment ahead of time.

4) Develop a process to manage missed or cancelled patient review appointments.

Establish a process for re-scheduling cancelled or missed CDM review appointments

Document the process for how to manage cancellations or missed review appointments. As part of this process consider:

How is the cancellation documented? For example, will your practice flag the patient, or retain a list of patients that need to be re-scheduled?
Who needs to be notified? (e.g. Nurse or Aboriginal Health Practitioner with responsibility for Chronic Disease coordination, and the patients usual GP)
What are the standing arrangements for re-scheduling CDM review appointments? For example, does your practice aim to re-schedule within 2 weeks of the cancellation as a standard operating procedure?
Are there any data searches that need to be completed at regular intervals to identify any patients that may have missed their appointment but not been re-scheduled? For example, you could run a report from your clinical practice software for patients that have not had a review in more than 6 months, and provide this list to a Nurse or Aboriginal Health Practitioner with responsibility for Chronic Disease coordination for review and action to check for any patients that have missed their scheduled review.

Welcoming our newest CCC member

Thu, 23 Jan 2025 23:21:12 GMT

We are pleased to welcomed Dr Billy Stoupas, as South Eastern Melbourne PHN’s newest Clinical and Community Council (CCC)  member.

Dr Stoupas, a local General Practitioner, will contribute his expertise and experience, alongside our eleven existing members, to help SEMPHN better meet the healthcare needs of communities in south east Melbourne. 

With a strong background in healthcare management and governance, Dr Stoupas is dedicated to community engagement and health education. He is actively involved in the healthcare community, reflecting his passion for improving health outcomes.

What is the Clinical and Community Council?

The CCC plays an essential role in advancing SEMPHN’s efforts to strengthen primary health care and connect services across the healthcare system. Chaired by Board Member Tony Clarkson and comprising 12 representatives from across community, primary and acute health services, their role includes providing clinical advice and guidance on matters relating to safe and high-quality planning, implementation and ongoing evaluation of SEMPHN services or programs. 

We look forward to Billy’s clinical insights and community perspectives guiding a more equitable, person-centred and seamless healthcare system so that people in south east Melbourne can live their healthiest lives. 

Measles outbreak - Information pack for healthcare services

Thu, 23 Jan 2025 22:07:54 GMT

There has been an increase in measles cases in returned travellers across Australia, with outbreaks reported in South-East Asia, including Vietnam and Thailand.

The department has prepared an information pack to assist healthcare services in managing the outbreak.

The information pack includes:

Posters for display in clinics (English and Vietnamese), including one to assist with triaging patients.
Factsheets for patients if required (please note one has been made for the general population, and another with nuanced information for Vietnamese community members)
Social media tile s to share with your networks, or on your platforms.

Key actions for healthcare professionals

Be alert for measles symptoms, especially in patients with recent travel history.
Test and notify the Department of Health immediately if measles is suspected.
Isolate suspected cases and take precautions to prevent transmission.
Ensure patients born after 1965 are fully vaccinated with two doses of MMR vaccine.
Promote measles vaccination for those travelling overseas, including infants from 6 months of age.

Key actions for services

Share information about measles symptoms and vaccination with your networks, particularly in at-risk groups like the Vietnamese community.
Display posters in visible locations and share social media content through your channels.

Other resources

Sector relevant information on measles can be found at health.vic
Consumer relevant information on measles can be found at Better Health Channel .

Upcoming Changes to Chronic Conditions Management (CCM) MBS Items

Wed, 22 Jan 2025 00:50:00 GMT

It’s time to get your general practice ready for changes to Chronic Conditions Management (CCM) MBS items.

Big changes are coming to how chronic conditions are managed in general practice—the first major updates in 20 years. Starting from 1 July 2025 , new CCM MBS items recommended by the MBS Review Taskforce will take effect.

Change can feel overwhelming, but breaking it down into small, practical steps makes it easier. Australian general practices already use great methods like Plan–Do–Study–Act cycles to adapt and improve while keeping things running smoothly.

To help your practice prepare, SEMPHN is launching a CCM activation series . This series will guide your team and patients in implementing the new items and strengthening patient connections through MyMedicare.

The first two activities will focus on:

Activity 1 : Focus on engaging patients with Chronic Disease Management Plans and team care arrangements, encouraging them to register with MyMedicare and return for regular reviews.
Activity 2 : Build awareness among your team about MyMedicare and the CCM changes, and explore how everyone can play a role in these updates.

Other steps your practice can take to prepare now:

Here are some other ideas you might like to consider to prepare for CCM item number changes and MyMedicare patient registration:

Discuss what these changes mean with your practice team and identify any processes you need to review or update (e.g. incorporating MyMedicare registration in your workflows for chronic disease/conditions management).
Register your practice for MyMedicare if you have not done so already.
Engage your patients to encourage them to register with MyMedicare, particularly those with a chronic condition or existing care plan. This could include:

Prepare your practice team to speak with patients about MyMedicare by discussing MyMedicare at a practice meeting or print off copies of the MyMedicare brochures and MyMedicare patient registration frequently asked questions for your practice team to have on hand to support conversations with patients.
Include the MyMedicare Registration form and brochure with your patient consent and data collection form
Update your practice website to include links to MyMedicare brochures and MyMedicare patient registration information .
Place MyMedicare posters and brochures in your practice waiting room/reception and display MyMedicare Patient videos in your waiting room screens.
Post information about MyMedicare in your practice Facebook or social media page using the following Social Media Tiles.

We’re here to support you every step of the way as you implement these changes.

Stay tuned for more information.

Paid Opportunity for GPs: MATOD Clinical Placement Program

Wed, 15 Jan 2025 21:38:30 GMT

Changes in our catchment have further reduced the number of clinicians who offer Medication-Assisted Treatment of Opioid Dependence (MATOD), making it even more challenging for patients to find a MATOD prescriber.

To assist our community, we’re offering GPs in Victoria a paid opportunity to join a Medication-Assisted Treatment of Opioid Dependence (MATOD) Clinical Placement Program, supporting patients who live with Opioid Use Disorder .

Benefits of the program include:

Flexibility to choose your level of engagement: Observe an experienced MATOD prescriber (4 clinics, across 4 weeks) then, g ain hands-on experience as a locum at the same MATOD clinic (8 clinics, across 8 weeks)
Mentoring from experienced prescribers
Remuneration up to $9760 (contact A4PN@semphn.org.au for more information)
Make a big impact at a crucial time.

Not accredited but interested?

If you are interested in this opportunity, but have not yet attained MATOD accreditation, please get in touch with our team. We can provide guidance on obtaining accreditation and completing the training: A4PN@semphn.org.au

Urgent Care options available during the holiday season

Tue, 17 Dec 2024 00:26:09 GMT

If your patients require urgent but non-life-threatening care during the holiday period, direct them to Victoria's Urgent Care Services for faster help.

Patients can get the right care at the right time with Victoria's range of Urgent Care Services available across Victoria.

The services aim to reduce the demand on hospital emergency departments by providing primary care services for urgent conditions that do not require an emergency response.

Victoria's Urgent Care Services includes:

Urgent Care Clinics open late and on weekends
Video call with Virtual Emergency Care 24/7
Phone 1300 60 60 24 Nurse-on-Call 24/7

For more information on Urgent Care Clinics available in south east Melbourne and their opening hours, please visit SEMPHN's Medicare Urgent Care Clinics page.

What are the benefits?

Free and open to all, no Medicare card needed
No appointment or GP referral required
Staffed by urgent care doctors and nurses
Faster care with no waiting in a hospital emergency department

Patient Resources

The below patient resources are available to help explain the services.

Video explaining the available Urgent Care Services
Fact sheets available in English, Arabic, Chinese (simplified and traditional), Greek, Italian, Punjabi, Turkish and Vietnamese
Urgent care options with links to more information on the available Urgent Care Service options
Emergency care options for life-threatening situations
Everyday care options for non-urgent matters.

Please direct patients to the Better Health Channel's Urgent Care Services Victoria page for further information on the services.

General Practice in Aged Care Incentive (GP ACI) Patient Registration Update

Tue, 10 Dec 2024 06:03:00 GMT

Practices can now backdate GP ACI registrations for MyMedicare patients to amend registration errors.

The General Practice in Aged Care Incentive (GP ACI) commenced on 1 July 2024, with eligibility for the first quarter (July – September 2024) assessed and paid in October 2024.

Some GP ACI-registered practices and their GPs did not receive the quarter-one payment because their MyMedicare-registered patients were not properly registered for GP ACI in the Organisation Register.

For a limited time, the Department of Health and Aged Care is allowing practices that were registered for GP ACI to backdate the GP ACI registration of their MyMedicare-registered patients. This will allow re-assessment of eligible services delivered from July to December 2024.

Practices must backdate the GP ACI registration date for any MyMedicare-registered patients impacted by this error by 31 March 2025 .

Detailed instructions for backdating are available here .

Eligibility criteria

Your practice and GPs may be eligible for GP ACI payments for this period if the servicing requirements in the GP ACI guidelines were met. Specifically, your patient/s must have received:

two eligible regular services, each in a separate calendar month, and
at least one of the regular visits was by the Responsible Provider.

GP ACI registration dates can be backdated for patients who:

were registered for MyMedicare but were not registered correctly for GP ACI, or
were registered for MyMedicare and GP ACI but the date was after the eligible services were delivered by the Responsible Provider.

You can only select a date for your patient’s GP ACI registration if the following were also in place on that date:

The practice was registered for GP ACI
The provider being selected as the Responsible Provider was linked to your practice in the Organisation Register
The patient was registered with your practice for MyMedicare
GP ACI had commenced (1 July 2024).

Further information

Some requests for a Review of Decision (RoD) have been received by Services Australia, which will be impacted by this change. Any submitted RoD will be addressed individually, following the guidance provided in this communication.

For more information about MyMedicare incentives, including GP ACI payment requirements, please see health.gov.au/mymedicare . If you have any questions, you can:

Call Services Australia on 13 21 50 (select option 2) (call charges may apply), or
Email mymedicare@servicesaustralia.gov.au (please be aware that there may be risks with sending personal information through unsecured networks or email channels).

Opportunity: Advance Care Planning (ACP) Service Visits for General Practice

Wed, 04 Dec 2024 23:45:25 GMT

South Eastern Melbourne Primary Health Network (SEMPHN) is partnering with Alfred Health and Peninsula Health Advanced Care Planning (ACP) Services to offer general practices the opportunity to connect with their local hospital's ACP Service.

What is Advanced Care Planning (ACP)?

ACP is the process of planning for someone's future healthcare and the care they would (or would not) like to receive in the event of serious illness when they are unable to communicate their preferences, or at the end of their life. You can learn more about ACP by visiting our ACP page .

About the opportunity

You have the opportunity to participate in a 3-4 month program with your local hospital's ACP Service. This program aims to provide information, education, and training to improve the understanding and access to ACP Services.

To kick off this exciting initiative, SEMPHN is offering an incentive payment of $1,000 (ex GST) per practice to the first ten practices that participate in the program. There are 6 spots remaining in the program.

What will the program provide?

The program provides practical, evidence-based resources and training that empowers primary care professionals to initiate advanced care planning discussions. An ACP liaison officer will arrange visits to your practice by the local hospital's ACP service at a time that is convenient for you.

Eligibility

The Local Government Areas (LGAs) eligible for this opportunity are:

Mornington Peninsula
Frankston

How to apply

Complete this application form to apply for the program and learn how you can help your patients with ACP.

For questions or support regarding the application process, please email palliativecare@semphn.org.au .

Services Australia Update – Changes to Organisation Register and keeping your practice accreditation details current

Wed, 04 Dec 2024 23:39:01 GMT

Services Australia has advised there will be a system release for the Organisation Register on 9 December 2024.

The updates will introduce the following changes:

1. Introduction of a new data field – Practice type

From December, all new practices registering in MyMedicare must select a practice type while completing the registration process. This is mandatory. The practice type options are as below:

General Practice
Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Service
Aboriginal Medical Service
Mobile Practice
Outreach Practice
Sole Provider Practice
Nurse Practitioner-led Practice with a GP

It is strongly recommended that currently registered practices also update the practice type in the Organisation Register.

2. Updates to accreditation details recorded on the Organisation Register

From December 2024, accreditation dates will be used to assess MyMedicare eligibility if the practice has an accredited status. Practices should ensure their accreditation details and dates are current and correct, to ensure MyMedicare eligibility is maintained. Practices have until 31 March 2025 to update or add this information. After this date, practices may no longer be eligible in MyMedicare, unless they have an accreditation exemption.

If practices need to update their accreditation status, when they receive a renewal and/or new certificate number, it is recommended to add a new line entry. Existing details should only be updated if corrections are being made. If the practice is working toward accreditation, this does not impact them. However, if practices become accredited before the end of the 12-month period provided to attain accreditation, the accreditation status must be updated.

An accreditation exemption is available until 30 June 2025 for non-accredited practices (including sole providers) who deliver general practice services entirely through mobile and outreach models. If a practice has recorded their exemption status, no action is required and the exemption will continue to apply until 30 June 2025.

Services Australia has updated the resources available on the Health Professionals Education site to reflect these upcoming changes for accredited practices:

Simulation for ‘Setting up the Organisation Register for program use '
A message has been added to Slide 9 of ‘ Creating an Organisation Site Record ’
Update to Slide 8 on requirements to maintain accreditation details ‘ Amend your Organisation Site Record through HPOS '

For support on MyMedicare, please contact your Provider Support Office or email providersupport@semphn.org.au .

Welcoming our new Board members and honouring our retiring members

Mon, 02 Dec 2024 23:19:14 GMT

We are pleased to announce the appointment of three new Board members to South Eastern Melbourne PHN (SEMPHN).

These new members bring invaluable expertise and experience, joining our six existing members to help address the healthcare needs of communities across south east Melbourne.

We would also like to extend our heartfelt thanks to retiring Board members Alison Roberts, Dr Michael Cross and Micaela Drieberg whose contributions have significantly helped shape our organisation and impacted the health landscape of our community.

Welcome to our new Board Members

Cris Massis - Cris is CEO of the Royal Australasian College of Medical Administrators and Director of Saint George Consulting. With a career focused on service-based organisations across a variety of sectors including healthcare, finance and professional sport, Cris has in-depth leadership experience, knowledge and governance exposure of high-performing service-based organisations.
Cris has also previously been a member SEMPHN’s Clinical and Community Council (CCC).

Kirstan Corben - Kirstan is well known for her corporate governance and executive leadership across the health, community and sport sectors within Victoria. She holds the position of Board Chair with Better Health Network, a leading community health service in Melbourne.

Dr Tim Ross - Tim has over 25 years of experience in health care as a general practitioner and corporate clinician. Tim is currently Deputy Chief Health Officer at Telstra Health, responsible for clinical governance and operations across all digital solutions.

The Board plays a pivotal role in driving SEMPHN’s 2023-2028 Strategic Plan: Path to Impact . Chaired by Sue Renkin, the board’s collective guidance and professional insights are crucial to delivering high-quality, measurable, and equitable health outcomes to our region.

We look forward to the perspectives our new members will bring as we work towards creating a more equitable and person-centred health system, helping the people of south east Melbourne live their healthiest lives.

Our 2023-2024 Annual Report is live!

Fri, 22 Nov 2024 00:43:08 GMT

Our latest Annual Report details our accomplishments and highlights the impact of our work on the local community.

We’ve featured local, SEMPHN-commissioned health services/programs and reflections from individuals who have visited the services or participated in the programs.

The report may provide useful insights into local services to which you can refer your patients.

Over the last 12 months, we have achieved many significant outcomes and created an abundance of opportunities for the people of south east Melbourne to live their healthiest lives.

Some of our key achievements include:

Roll-out of programs responding to aged care, digital health, youth, mental health and AoD needs in our community.   
Initiatives that filled service gaps, improved patient experience and created inclusive and accessible environments for health care.
Collaboration with health care providers to deliver targeted staff training and educational resources, leading to enhanced capacity and capability to provide quality care in our region.

Our impact, and SEMPHN’s work across the sector, would not be possible without the involvement of general practices, local hospital networks, allied health services and the community members with lived experience contributing to service design and delivery.

We thank the primary health sector for your collaboration and commitment over the past year!

GPACI update- Q1 payments, Updated MBS User Guide and GPACI conversations and implementation webinar series

Wed, 13 Nov 2024 22:24:20 GMT

Quarter 1 payments for the General Practice in Aged Care Incentive are now flowing onto general practices.

Some payments to practices have not been processed by Services Australia where practice or responsible provider bank account details have not been provided or need to be updated. A new resource published by Services Australia is available to assist practices and providers in understanding and acting on failed payment notifications (when they have missing or incorrect bank account details). Click here to access it.

The latest version of the MBS user guide for GPACI has been published to support your General Practice to plan their delivery of care for the GPACI and provides examples of how to use MBS items to meet the requirements of this incentive. Get your copy of the guide here.

To use the guide in your practice, simply select the Sample Schedule (see pg. 3 – 8) and Example Annual Cycle billing scenario (see pg. 11 –15) that best suits your practice team and setting. Once you have identified these, you will have a 2-page guide to simplify MBS billing for GPACI.

This updated version of the guide removes references to Aboriginal Health Workers and clarifies that only Aboriginal Health Practitioners and Practice Nurses are eligible to claim MBS Item 10997. References have also been removed to MBS Item number 10987 as this item is only billable following a 715 health check, which cannot be billed for residents of an aged care home.

GPACI conversations and implementation webinars

These webinars are practical peer learning conversations, exploring the incentive and sharing experiences and lessons learned through implementation including:

What this incentive means for you and the potential benefits
How to utilise the incentive to support high quality, integrated, patient centred care in an aged care setting
How obstacles involved in operationalising this incentive can be overcome.

Webinars are chaired by Dr Paresh Dawda, Canberra-based GP, and Prestantia Health Principal Consultant.

Webinar 2 - For all members of the care team - Thursday 14 November 7:30 pm – 8:30 pm AEDT. Register here.

Panellists include:

Dr Jagdeesh Singh Dhaliwal, GP South East Melbourne
Laila Hallam, Health Consumer Leader
Cassara Hardie, A/g CEO National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Ageing and Aged Care Council
Marie Vaughan, Aged Care Specialist, Nurse Practitioner
Practice manager representative (speaker TBC).

Webinar 3 - For GPs/Responsible providers - Monday 18 November 7:30 pm – 8:30 pm AEDT. Register here.

Panellists include:

Dr Ian Williams, GP Camp Hill, Qld
Dr Anthony Marinucci, GP Haberfeld, NSW
Further GP panellists coming soon.

Webinar 4 - For residents, families and friends - Thursday 5 December 12 pm – 12:45 pm AEDT. Register here .

Panellists include:

Craig Gear, CEO, Older Persons Advocacy Network
Leanne Wells, Consumer Advocate Leader
Danijela Hlis, Consumer Leader
Ann Davies, Aged Care Industry Leader.

For support on MyMedicare and GPACI, please contact providersupport@semphn.org.au.

New criteria for eligible patients requiring general surgery

Thu, 31 Oct 2024 22:50:31 GMT

New statewide referral criteria for select hernia, oesophageal and hepatobiliary, colon and anorectal conditions potentially requiring general surgery, come into effect from 1 November 2024 in all Victorian public hospitals.

When a referring GP successfully uses the new general surgery criteria to refer a patient to a public hospital, patients can be triaged more accurately and be placed directly onto the appropriate specialist clinics waitlist without delay.

The referral information encourages multidisciplinary assessments to support non-surgical care and, when required appropriate direction to surgical treatment through the statewide referral criteria. This is why more information is needed in referrals – to support better access for patients.

The Victorian Department of Health has developed and published statewide referral criteria for a further six general surgery conditions.

General surgery - hernia, oesophageal and hepatobiliary, colon and anorectal conditions

Please note: An update will be provided as to the release of criteria for gallbladder stones and polyps.

The general surgery suite is among 16 suites of statewide referral criteria already in existence across Victoria.

Statewide referral criteria provide referring clinicians clear and consistent guidance about which patients can be seen in public specialist clinics across Victoria and what investigations are necessary to support accurate prioritisation of referrals.

GPs can also visit src.health.vic.gov.au to view the specialist referral criteria.

Statewide referral criteria apply to public hospitals and health services only. They do not apply to private hospitals. Additional specialities are set to be released throughout 2025.

New criteria for eligible patients requiring specialist management for respiratory and sleep conditions

Thu, 31 Oct 2024 22:29:14 GMT

New statewide referral criteria for select respiratory conditions and sleep disorders come into effect from 1 November 2024 in all Victorian public hospitals.

When a referring GP successfully uses the new respiratory criteria to refer a patient to a public hospital, patients can be triaged more accurately and be placed directly onto the appropriate specialist clinics waitlist without delay.

The referral information encourages multidisciplinary assessments to support medical care and, when required, appropriate direction to specialist treatment through the statewide referral criteria. This is why more information is needed in referrals – to support better access for patients.

The Victorian Department of Health has developed and published statewide specialist referral criteria for a further five respiratory conditions and adult sleep disorders. The respiratory suite is among 16 suites of specialist referral criteria already in existence across Victoria.

Respiratory conditions

This suite also includes adult public sleep disorders. Public sleep specialist services are offered by Alfred Health, Austin Health, Eastern Health, Monash Health, St Vincent’s Health, The Royal Melbourne Hospital and Western Health.

GPs can also visit src.health.vic.gov.au to view the specialist referral criteria.

Statewide referral criteria apply to public hospitals and health services only. They do not apply to private hospitals. Additional specialities are set to be released throughout 2025.

Chronic Disease Management and MBS deferred to 1 July 2025

Thu, 26 Sep 2024 06:10:52 GMT

On 25 September the Department of Health and Aged Care announced the commencement date for Chronic Conditions Management MBS item changes have been deferred to 1 July 2025.

The additional time will support all practices and providers, including GPs and allied health providers, to be ready for the changes to these important services. Previously, these changes were due to come into effect from 1 November 2024.

Steps your practice can take to prepare

Here are some ideas you might like to consider starting to prepare your practice team for Chronic Conditions Management and MyMedicare patient registration:

Discuss what these changes mean with your practice team and identify any activities or processes you need to review or update (e.g. incorporating MyMedicare registration in your workflows for chronic disease/conditions management).
Register your practice for MyMedicare if you have not done so already.
Engage your patients to encourage them to register with MyMedicare, particularly those with a chronic condition or existing care plan:

Prepare your practice team to speak with patients about MyMedicare. Discuss MyMedicare at a practice meeting or print off copies of the MyMedicare brochures and MyMedicare patient registration frequently asked questions for your practice team to have on hand to support conversations with patients.
Include the MyMedicare Registration form and brochure with your patient registration form
Update your practice website to include links to MyMedicare brochures a, MyMedicare patient registration information , and MyMedicare patient registration frequently asked questions
Place MyMedicare posters and brochures in your practice waiting room/reception and display MyMedicare Patient videos in your waiting room screens.
Post information about MyMedicare in your practice Facebook or social media page using the following Social Media Tiles .

The MyMedicare communication resources for General Practice includes social media tiles, videos, brochures and posters.

SEMPHN will continue to keep you updated with more information about these changes as they are released. Please contact us your Provider Support Officer for more information and support.

New and improved GP ACI MBS User Guide

Wed, 25 Sep 2024 05:23:30 GMT

The latest version of the General Practice in Aged Care (GPACI) User Guide includes after-hours MBS item numbers and an example of triple bulk-billing benefits.

PHNs across the country have collaborated to design this user guide and continue to work as a connected network to support local change management for MyMedicare.

This resource provides a quick reference guide for General Practices with examples of how to use MBS items to meet quarterly and annual service delivery requirements for GP ACI and is available here .

How to use the guide

To use the guide in your practice, simply select the Sample Schedule and Example Annual Cycle billing scenario that best suits your practice team and setting.

There are three main general practice Sample schedules (pages 3-8) reflected in this user guide:

Responsible Provider Only - where a single GP delivers all care to the resident
Responsible Provider + Alternative Provider - where other members of the practice team also deliver care to the resident including other GPs, Prescribed medical practitioners and Nurse practitioners
Responsible Provider + Other care team members – where other members of the practice team also include visits delivered by practice nurses or Aboriginal Health Workers, in addition to other GPs, Prescribed medical practitioners and Nurse practitioners.

The guide incorporates a variation of sample schedules that describes how telehealth items could be billed for practices in MMM 4 – 7. The guide also includes Example Annual Cycle including estimated billings (pages 11 -14) to support your practice to deliver the proactive and regular planned care required to meet the General Practice in Aged Care Incentive. On page 15 there is an example of triple bulk billing incentives.

There are a range of ways your practice could use the guide including:

Identify the Sample Schedule and Example Annual Cycle billing scenario that best suits your practice team and setting. Print these or share them with your practice team to inform care planning for the General Practice in Aged Care Incentive.
Review your historical billing practices for Residential Aged Care Home patients and use the guide to develop a quick PDSA (Plan – Do – Study – Act) to identify any improvements you could make to billing and care practices.
Plan care for your residential aged care patients 3 – 6 months ahead by booking appointments for residential aged care visits each month using the Example Annual Cycle as a guide. Consider how you can group visits to a residential aged care home in your practice booking system to maximize efficiency of clinician time.
Meet with your practice team to reflect on the guide, and identify opportunities for practice nurses, Aboriginal health workers and other doctors to support or deliver care. For example, could practice nurses work alongside doctors at aged care visits to work up care planning and make the visit more efficient for your practice, residential aged care homes, and patients you care for that are residents of aged care homes?

General Practices invited to complete Digital Health Maturity Assessment

Wed, 18 Sep 2024 04:46:54 GMT

SEMPHN is inviting general practices across the catchment to complete the Digital Health Maturity Assessment tool.

SEMPHN currently provides a range of digital health support to local practices and we would like to understand how digital health is used in practices everyday operations. The assessment also provides the opportunity to inform us on how we can better support general practice and their specific individual needs.

The assessment will open on 1 October 2024 and will be available for a limited time . Every general practice in the SEMPHN catchment will have the opportunity to complete the assessment at no cost.   

What is a Digital Health Maturity Assessment?

The assessment tool provides an insight into how and when general practices use digital health activities, providing guidance for future activities.

The DHMA Tool has been developed by Semantic Consulting and the Digital Health Team at SEMPHN.

Why complete the assessment tool?

The purpose of this tool is to better understand where general practices are at on their digital health journey, providing guidance to both SEMPHN and the general practices to support future planning to enable digital enhancements.

What are the benefits to General practice?

Understanding of current digital maturity
Understand current business performance in digital health and identify next steps
Identify opportunities for digital enhancements
Provide evidential support for grants and tender applications
Risk management tool to identify digital vulnerabilities about cyber security and disaster recovery  
Receive Tailored Action Plan based on your responses with links to relevant educational resources to complete at your own pace 
Provide evidence of continuous quality improvement for accreditation purposes.

What are the benefits to SEMPHN?

In completing the assessment tool, practices will help SEMPHN develop a snapshot of the 2024 digital health landscape and allow us to identify levels of digital health maturity. In turn, SEMPHN can develop plans and activities targeted at the needs and capabilities of individual clinics and/or communities rather than a one-size-fits-all approach to developing digital health capacity.

How will the data be used?

All information collected will be visible only to the general practice completing the assessment, SEMPHN, and the contracted provider (Semantic Consulting). SEMPHN will store and use responses provided for the purpose of the evaluation of digital health use within south east Melbourne, and to support the delivery of targeted support initiatives. Data aggregated across the whole region may be used in publications (e.g. the SEMPHN annual report and health needs assessment) however individual practices will never be identified outside of previously described purposes.

Support to complete the assessment

To assist practices in completing the assessment, please join one of our drop-in guided walk-through sessions to learn how to complete the plan.

Session 1: Wednesday 9 October 2024 (12.30pm - 1:30pm)
Session 2: Tuesday 15 October 2024 (3.30pm - 4:30pm)
Session 3: Wednesday 23 October 2024 (8.30am - 9:30am)

Recorded session

If you were unable to attend the above sessions, please access a recorded version here .

For further information, please contact the Digital Health Team at digitalhealth@semphn.org.au or 03 8514 4460.

If your practice does not receive an invitation link, please contact the Digital Health Team using the above information.

Living Well with Dementia: How the Right Support Can Make All the Difference

Mon, 09 Sep 2024 00:10:29 GMT

This year, Dementia Action Week’s (16 – 22 September) theme, ‘Act Now for a Dementia-Friendly Future’, serves as an important reminder that a dementia diagnosis does not mean loss of quality of life.

Receiving a dementia diagnosis can be a difficult experience for both individuals and their caregivers, leading to feelings of isolation and a loss of connection with their community, friends and family, and hobbies and interests.

Currently, nearly half a million Australians have dementia, with close to 1.6 million people involved in their care. The number of Australians with dementia is expected to double by 2058.

Despite common beliefs, people with dementia can live independently in their own homes, stay engaged in their community, and continue to enjoy their hobbies and social activities with proper assistance and support.

The Dementia Rehabilitation Program, funded by South Eastern Melbourne PHN and provided by Encara, is a 12-week in-home program designed to improve the independence and wellbeing of both clients and their caregivers, at no cost.

Betty, the caregiver to her husband Bill, shared her experience after learning about Bill's diagnosis.

“Well, it was a shock to the system, it was devastating really," Betty said.

Bill's confidence in his once loved activities declined after frequent hospital visits. "Before my diagnosis, I was learning Italian, playing chess and Sudoku. I gave up all those activities because I thought I couldn’t do them anymore," he shared.

Following a hospital visit, a visiting social worker recommended the Dementia Rehabilitation Program, which offers podiatry, physiotherapy, occupational therapy, aromatherapy , and optional art therapy, all led by Allied Health Professionals.

Regular visits from the program's podiatrist, occupational therapist, and physiotherapist provided essential support, aiding in Bill's mobility and boosting Betty's confidence in caregiving.

"The program helped me a lot, just knowing that I’m doing the right thing. They really involved and guided us based on where we needed help," Betty shared.

With improved mobility and confidence, Bill regained much of his independence, returning to his chess club and rediscovering the joy of reading.

"Now he can go down to the library by himself, which was something he couldn't do before this program," Betty remarked.

Since finishing the program, Bill and Betty have continued with the exercises and both feel more positive about the future.

"It's an awful thing to be diagnosed with, but we can get on with life, I think, as best we can," Betty expressed.

The Dementia Rehabilitation Program is currently available to individuals aged 65 and over living in the City of Greater Dandenong, City of Kingston, City of Frankston, Mornington Peninsula Shire and City of Casey.

Since its launch in July 2023, over 136 people and many more of their carers have benefited from the program.

Encara welcomes all referrals, including self-referrals, family referrals, and referrals from health professionals such as GPs, specialists, care partners, and other allied health professionals.

[Closed] Expression of Interest: Extend your General Practice opening hours

Thu, 05 Sep 2024 04:33:18 GMT

SEMPHN is pleased to invite general practices located in the Local Government Areas (LGAs) of Mornington Peninsula, Cardinia and Casey to express their interest in extending their opening hours.

After Hours primary care is accessible and effective primary health care for people whose health condition cannot wait for treatment until regular primary health care services are next available.

SEMPHN's December 2023 Needs Assessment highlights that limited access to after-hours primary care may lead to an increase in non-urgent Emergency Department visits, causing overcrowding and higher health system expenses.

About the Expression of Interest (EOI)

This opportunity is designed to allow General Practices to propose their commitment to extend their existing operating hours on Friday and the weekend. Practices will be expected to provide low to moderate acuity services such as treating minor injuries, pain management, wound care, fractures, lacerations, minor burns, abdominal pain, skin, and soft-tissue infections.

Funding of up to $300,000 (Ex. GST.) is available for successful general practice/s for the duration of the program.

Interested practices are to propose funding they require to extend their current hours of operation in the AH period on Fridays (after 6 pm), Saturdays (after 12 pm) and Sundays . Extension of hours must be at least two (2) hours per proposed day.

Preference will be given to practices proposing higher additional hours above the minimum requirement.

Eligibility

The EOI is open to accredited general practices located in the LGAs of Mornington Peninsula, Cardinia and Casey

Interested practices must be able to commence service delivery by 1 November 2024 .

For further eligibility criteria, please review the specifications in eProcure .

How to apply

Expressions of interest must be made through SEMPHN's eProcure .
Questions about the EOI must be asked through SEMPHN's eProcure.

Applications close 5pm on 18 September 2024 .

How you can prepare for thunderstorm asthma season

Wed, 28 Aug 2024 23:16:49 GMT

Health professionals such as general practitioners, pharmacists, and nurses play a crucial role in minimising the risk of epidemic thunderstorm asthma events in the community.

What is thunderstorm asthma?

Grass pollen season brings a seasonal increase in asthma and hay fever. It also brings the chance of thunderstorm asthma. When a large number of people develop asthma symptoms over a short period of time, caused by high amounts of grass pollen and a certain type of thunderstorm, it is known as epidemic thunderstorm asthma.

Melbourne experienced the world’s largest epidemic thunderstorm asthma event on 21 November 2016, with thousands of people developing breathing difficulties in a very short period of time.

Who is most at risk?

Those at risk of thunderstorm asthma include:

people with asthma
people with undiagnosed asthma (i.e. people who have asthma symptoms but have not yet been diagnosed with asthma)
people who have had asthma in the past
people with hay fever who may or may not have asthma.

What can you do to prepare?

Improving the diagnosis, clinical care, and self-management of asthma and hay fever is essential to addressing the threat of epidemic thunderstorm asthma events. This approach will not only reduce the impact of such events but also enhance the overall health and well-being of individuals with these conditions between events.

Health professionals can take advantage of epidemic thunderstorm asthma training programs and resources, which include:

A thunderstorm asthma flowchart for pharmacists
Resource s for emergency departments and urgent care centers to facilitate self-assessment and gap analysis of preparedness for epidemic thunderstorm asthma events.
Australian asthma handbook: Endorsed national guideline for GPs

Additional resources are also available from the National Asthma Council .

Translated resources

Translated consumer materials can be found on the Thunderstorm asthma – multicultural resource page .

See the Vic Department of Health for a Thunderstorm asthma campaign toolkit , helping to raise public awareness about thunderstorm asthma, who is at risk, asthma first aid and prevention.

For more information

National Asthma Council of Australia – Thunderstorm Asthma – information paper for health professionals

Survey for SEMPHN-funded mental health services

Fri, 16 Aug 2024 03:38:03 GMT

We want to learn more about how our service providers involve people with lived experience in service design, planning, governance, delivery, and evaluation.

The Mental Health Lived Experience Engagement Network (MHLEEN) have commissioned LELAN to survey commissioned service providers to support us in learning how we can better work together to embed best practice approaches.

Survey results will be used for quality improvement recommendations and will be shared in a report of findings in October 2024.

Please delegate a staff member who has the information required to complete the survey
A hard copy of the survey is provided to help you determine who is best placed to answer the survey questions
You will be able to pause and save the survey at the end of each section to allow you to come back and complete the survey at any time
Please complete this survey by 5.00 pm Wednesday 4 September 2024.

To complete the survey , you will need to create a My Voice login (if you do not already have one). This will enable you to save the survey, exit and return at a time that is convenient for you to complete.

To create a My Voice account:

Create a username of your choice (e.g. name, first/last name, job role)
Enter your email address
Create a password
Enter the suburb of your work location
Tick I agree to the terms of use and privacy policy for using Engagement HQ
Click Register
Verify your account by entering the four-digit code that will be sent through to your chosen email address.

Helpful resources

Please contact MHLEEN for any question about the survey or process via email at mhleen@brisbanenorthphn.org.au or phone 07 3490 3417.

[Closed] Expression of Interest: Extend your General Practice opening hours

Thu, 08 Aug 2024 00:22:59 GMT

SEMPHN is pleased to invite general practices in the Local Government Areas (LGAs) of Mornington Peninsula, Cardinia and Casey to express their interest in extending their opening hours.

After Hours primary care is accessible and effective primary health care for people whose health condition cannot wait for treatment until regular primary health care services are next available.

About the Expression of Interest (EOI)

Funding of up to $300,000 (Ex. GST.) is available for successful general practice/s for the duration of the program.

Interested practices are to propose funding they require to extend their current hours of operation in the AH period on Fridays (after 6 pm), Saturdays (after 12 pm) and Sundays. Extension of hours must be at least two (2) hours per proposed day.

Preference will be given to practices proposing higher additional hours above the minimum requirement.

Eligibility

The EOI is open to accredited general practices in the LGAs of Mornington Peninsula, Cardinia and Casey
Interested practices must be able to commence service delivery by 1 October 2024.

For further eligibility criteria, please review the specifications in eProcure .

How to apply

Expressions of interest must be made through SEMPHN's eProcure .
Questions about the EOI must be asked through SEMPHN's eProcure .

Applications close 5pm on 19 August 2024.

‘Embrace it and don’t let go’ Bill and Betty’s experience with the Dementia Rehabilitation Program

Thu, 18 Jul 2024 00:12:44 GMT

Receiving a dementia diagnosis can be challenging. For Bill and his wife, Betty, who is now also his carer , it was a heartbreaking discovery.

"Well, it was a shock to the system, it was devastating really," Betty said.

Dementia affects nearly half a million Australians, as well as almost 1.6 million people involved in their care. It's a progressive disease without a cure, impacting cognitive function, memory, thinking and behaviour, making daily activities challenging and hindering independence.

"One of the hardest things for me to accept was that I wasn't allowed to drive anymore. That was a big shock as I couldn't get around," Bill said.

With regular hospitalisation and declining health, Bill lost confidence in activities he once enjoyed.

"Before my diagnosis, I was learning Italian, playing chess and Sudoku. I gave up all those activities because I thought I couldn’t do them anymore," he shared.

Fortunately, after a hospital visit, a visiting social worker suggested the no-cost Dementia Rehabilitation Program, provided by Encara and funded by South Eastern Melbourne PHN. The 12-week in-home program aims to improve access to allied health-led rehabilitation activities, enhancing independence and wellbeing.

Led by Allied Health Professionals, the program offers podiatry, physiotherapy, occupational therapy, aromatherapy and optional art and music therapy. Initially hesitant about art therapy, Bill and Betty found it surprisingly beneficial."The therapy helped Bill come out of his shell," Betty noted.

Additionally, visits from the program's podiatrist, occupational therapist and physiotherapist provided invaluable support, aiding in Bill's mobility and Betty's caregiving confidence.

"The program helped me a lot, just knowing that I’m doing the right thing. They really involved and guided us based on where we needed help," Betty shared.

With improved mobility and confidence, Bill regained a lot of his independence, returning to his chess club and rediscovering the joy of reading.

"Now he can go down to the library by himself, which was something he couldn't do," Betty remarked.

Post-program, Bill and Betty continue exercises and feel more positive about the future. "It's an awful thing to be diagnosed with, but we can get on with life, I think, as best we can," Betty expressed.

The Dementia Rehabilitation Program is currently available to individuals aged 65 and over and has recently expanded from Mornington Peninsula Shire and City of Casey to include residents of the City of Greater Dandenong, City of Kingston and City of Frankston.

Since its launch in July 2023, over 90 people have benefited from the program.

Bill and Betty highly recommend the program, urging others to take it up.

"To anyone given the opportunity to join, we would say embrace it with open arms and don’t let it go!"

Encara accepts all referrals including self-referrals, family referrals or health professional referrals including GPs, specialists, care partners and other allied health professionals.

For more information about the program, visit Encara’s website .

You can now register for the General Practice in Aged Care Incentive

Tue, 02 Jul 2024 01:55:36 GMT

From the 1 July, General Practices, and ACCHs/ACCHOs and other eligible practices will be able to start registering in MyMedicare for the General Practice in Aged Care Incentive.

The General Practice Aged Care Incentive supports general practices to deliver regular, proactive services and care planning to older people living in residential aged care homes.

If your practice is already participating in the existing Practice Incentive (PIP) General Practice (GP) Aged Care Access Incentive (ACAI), we encourage you to get ready to register for the General Practice Aged Care Incentive .

How to participate

To register and access the incentive your practice must be eligible and registered for MyMedicare . Your patients that are aged care home residents will also need to be registered for MyMedicare with your practice.

General Practices, and ACCHs/ACCHOs and other eligible practices will be able to start registering in MyMedicare for the General Practice in Aged Care Incentive from 1 July 2024 , prior to the official commencement date on 1 August 2024.

Once your practice is registered for the General Practice in Aged Care Incentive, you will need to:

Link your providers and your MyMedicare patients to your practice
Select the General Practice in Aged Care Incentive indicator on your patients’ MyMedicare profiles
Link patients to responsible providers in your practice.

Steps your practice can take now to prepare for this new incentive

Register your practice for the MyMedicare Program
Encourage your patients in Residential Aged Care Homes to register for MyMedicare with your practice now using these resources to communicate with patients about MyMedicare
New information and videos about the General Practice in Aged Care Incentive will be released from 1 July 2024. Set aside time to learn about the incentive, register your practice and enroll your patients
Prepare your practice and team to consider these questions:

Which General Practitioners will be your Responsible Providers and have ongoing responsibility for visiting patients in Residential Aged Care Homes?
Will any other members of your practice team also provide some of the visiting services to your Residential Aged Care home patients?
How will visits be planned and coordinated with your practice team and the residential aged care home?
Will you schedule regular recurring visits to aged care homes into the calendars of your practice team?
How will you communicate with the residential aged care home to confirm appointments, or handle enquires from the home if care advice is required in between visits?
Will your practice be accepting new patients from Residential Aged Care Homes?
If so, consider contacting the aged care home to let them know and provide them with information they can share with patients about how to register with MyMedicare with your practice.

If practices and residents are registered for the General Practice in Aged Care Incentive before 30 September 2024, eligible MBS and DVA items delivered during the full assessment quarter (July 2024 to September 2024) will be used to calculate entitlements for incentive payments.

SEMPHN welcomes three new Clinical and Community Council members

Tue, 02 Jul 2024 01:28:11 GMT

We are pleased to welcome three new Clinical and Community Council (CCC) members who will contribute their expertise and experience, alongside our eight existing members, to help SEMPHN better meet the healthcare needs of communities in south east Melbourne.

Andrea Edwards is a proud Gunditjmara woman with over 30 years’ experience in nursing. For the past 15 years she has been a practice nurse at Prahran Market Clinic which specialises in sexual, LGBTIQA+ and HIV health.

Kate Coomber is a family worker in the Psychological Trauma Service, Alfred Mental and Addiction Health. Passionate about health ownership for CALD communities, First Nations, and aging populations, Kate advocates for effective and equitable healthcare communication and digital health rights.

Jawid Sayed oversees programs including the Refugee Settlement Program (SETS) and Asylum Seeker Support Program. Jawid has more than fifteen years’ diverse experience of working in the health & not-for-profits sectors in Australia and overseas in many areas, including community development, health promotion, monitoring and evaluation, international development and refugee settlement programs.

The CCC plays an essential role in advancing SEMPHN’s efforts to strengthen primary health care and connect services across the healthcare system. Chaired by Board Member Tony Clarkson and comprising 11 representatives from across community, primary and acute health services, their role includes providing clinical advice and guidance on matters relating to safe and high-quality planning, implementation and ongoing evaluation of SEMPHN services or programs.

We look forward to their clinical insights and community perspectives guiding a more equitable, person-centred and seamless health system so that people in south east Melbourne can live their healthiest lives.

Provider Connect Australia™ - helping healthcare providers stay connected

Tue, 02 Jul 2024 00:53:46 GMT

Keeping your business details up-to-date doesn’t have to become a paper burden anymore.

Provider Connect AustraliaTM (also known as PCA™) is a free initiative of the Australian Digital Health Agency (the Agency) that allows you to update your business information and choose to automatically send those updates to your connected business partners such as:

Healthcare directories, booking and review services
Primary Health Networks
Professional bodies and associations
Public health services
Secure messaging and information exchanges

You can self-register with PCA™ in your own time. Visit digitalhealth.gov.au/pca to learn more about:

How it works
How to register
Its growing network of participating business partners

The Agency also offers a dedicated support team that can assist you with registering for PCA™, they can be contacted on (02) 6223 0741 option 3 or via email MyHealthRecordConnections@digitalhealth.gov.au .

[Closed] Opportunity to apply to join SEMPHN Ltd's Board

Tue, 25 Jun 2024 05:09:24 GMT

Due to planned retirements from the South Eastern Melbourne Primary Health Network (SEMPHN) Ltd Board in 2024, SEMPHN is currently recruiting at least two new Non-Executive Directors (Directors).

This is an opportunity to submit an application to join the SEMPHN Board delivering our 2023-28 Strategic Plan: Path to Impact , with a focus on improving local health outcomes that are measurable, high quality and equitable.

Who should apply?

In addition, successful candidates will have at least two of the highly desirable skills outlined in the Director Applicant Information Pack, which includes primary health care expertise in service development, delivery, or management in the SEMPHN catchment, leadership experience in people, culture and organisation design, knowledge or understanding of government health care policy reform; social support and community sector experience; experience with clinical governance frameworks or data interpretation and knowledge translation.

How to apply?

To further consider your suitability and interest please access SEMPHN’s Director Applicant Information Pack for the application process.

Applications are now closed.

MyMedicare General Practice in Aged Care Incentive

Thu, 20 Jun 2024 01:18:59 GMT

Important updates and information about the new MyMedicare General Practice in Aged Care Incentive, launching from 1 August 2024.

The incentive aims to support older people living in Residential Aged Care to receive planned, quality primary care services from a regular General Practice and General Practitioner (GP).

Developed in response to the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety and the Strengthening Medicare Taskforce, the MyMedicare General Practice in Aged Care Incentive focuses on enhancing continuity of care, reducing avoidable hospitalisations, and facilitating regular visits, care planning, and health assessment services for aged care residents. The MyMedicare General Practice in Aged Care Incentive payments will be quarterly, in addition to existing Medicare Benefits Scheme (MBS) and Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) rebates for services delivered.

What are the key benefits expected from the MyMedicare General Practice in Aged Care Incentive?

Older people living in aged care will benefit from regular visits, care planning, and health assessment services, leading to improved continuity of care and reduced hospitalisations.
Eligible providers will receive payments for services provided to older people living in aged care.
Eligible practices will receive funding to manage quality care in aged care settings.

Practices and providers will be able to begin registering themselves and their patients for the MyMedicare General Practice in Aged Care Incentive and delivering eligible services from 1 July 2024 , as the first incentive assessment period is from July to September 2024 .

The MyMedicare General Practice in Aged Care Incentive aims to support more regular, planned care to be delivered in aged care homes. Providers may benefit from rural loadings and rebates from longer and more complex MBS items included in the Incentive servicing requirements. Providers may also be eligible to receive the triple bulk billing incentive introduced in November 2023. The triple bulk billing incentive is available for each bulk-billed visit to an aged care resident.

What is happening to the Practice Incentives Program (PIP) General Practitioner (GP) Aged Care Access Incentive (ACAI)?

The PIP GP ACAI will cease on 31 July 2024. The final PIP GP ACAI payment will be made in August 2024 for the reference period 1 May to 31 July 2024 as per existing payment and qualifying arrangements.
GPs who will be eligible for the final PIP GP ACAI payment are encouraged to update their bank details to enable final payments to be made.
GPs have three (3) payment quarters from the date PIP GP ACAI ceases, to finalise outstanding payments. After this time, any outstanding payments are forfeited and will not be paid.

Practices and providers may be eligible to receive payments under both the PIP GP ACAI and the MyMedicare General Practice in Aged Care Incentive for services delivered while both programs are active, if they meet the specific eligibility and servicing requirements of both programs.

More information on the General Practice in Aged Care Incentive

For more information on the General Practice in Aged Care Incentive, please visit the new webpage and factsheet .

It's Men's Health Week!

Sun, 09 Jun 2024 23:00:00 GMT

Men's Health Week (10 - 16 June) is here, and this year the focus is on Men's Health Checks.

It's a perfect time to highlight how health professionals can support the well being of men and boys. Here are some key services and resources to promote among your male patients.

The Men’s Table

The Men’s Table is a national organisation that started in 2011 when twelve men gathered for a chat and a bite to eat. Co-founder Ben Hughes, going through a tough divorce and business struggles, found immense benefit in the judgment-free, honest conversations. Recognising the value, Ben and co-founder David Pointon decided in 2019 to share this formula with others: a cheap meal, once a month, at the same place and time with the same group of men.

Today, Men’s Tables are hosted in local communities across Australia, significantly impacting men’s lives. Each table provides a safe, non-judgmental space focused on connection and belonging. New members are introduced through a creatively named "Entrée," which explains the monthly meeting structure. Members also have access to LivingWorks ASIST suicide prevention training, enhancing their ability to recognise and respond to suicidal thoughts and behaviours.

In the south-east, there are currently Men’s Table groups in Frankston and Port Melbourne. One participant shared,

“The table offers social connections, friendships, and deep sharing in a supportive, non-judgmental environment. It’s inclusive, and I look forward to our meetings.”

Know someone who might be interested in joining a Men’s Table? Visit www.themenstable.org or call 1800 636 782.

Bowel Cancer Screening

Another important initiative is the newly reduced bowel cancer screening age limits. Promoting this screening can be life-saving for many men. The free screening kits can be discreetly ordered and performed at home.

Starting July 1, 2024, individuals aged 45 to 49 can request their first free kit and join the National Bowel Cancer Screening Program:

Eligible people aged 45 to 49 can request their first bowel screening kit to be mailed to them.
Eligible people aged 50 to 74 will continue to receive a bowel screening kit in the mail every two years.

Free Bowel Screening Kits can be ordered from www.ncsr.gov.au/boweltest .

Additional Resources

For more resources to support Men's Health Week, visit the Australian Men's Health Forum's website .

Promote these services and resources to your male patients and help make a positive impact on their health and well being during Men's Health Week!

It's National Palliative Care Week! (19 - 25 May 2024)

Wed, 15 May 2024 23:04:30 GMT

To raise awareness of National Palliative Care Week, we're highlighting the Palliative Care services and resources available to health professionals working in Melbourne's south east.

National Palliative Care week aims to raise awareness and improve access to palliative care services. It is also an opportunity to acknowledge the General Practitioners, Registered Nurses, Nurse Practitioners, Allied Health professionals, specialist Palliative Care services, and the volunteers and carers who are critical in delivering exceptional care and optimising quality of life for people of all ages living with a life-limiting illness.

SEMPHN is proud to be participating in the Greater Choice for At Home Palliative Care project funded by the Australian Department of Health. We are collaborating with public and private providers including GPs and Residential Aged Care Homes (RACH) to improve access to safe and quality palliative care.

Below are some of the services and resources available to assist health professionals deliver improved palliative care.

Community Palliative Care Service Visits for General Practice

SEMPHN has partnered with the Southern Metropolitan Region Palliative Care Consortium (SMRPCC) to offer General Practices the opportunity to connect with local community based palliative care providers. Click here to learn more.

Practices can request a visit from a community palliative care team member to provide information, education, and help improve understanding and access to community palliative care services.

Visit the SEMPHN Palliative Care page HERE to learn how to apply.

Palliative Care Access to Core Medicines (PCAM) Project

The Palliative Care Access to Core Medicines (PCAM) project provides a localised palliative Core Medicine List (CML) for end-of-life care. Working with Pharmaceutical Society Australia and our fellow Melbourne metro PHNs, we now have all of Greater Melbourne covered with Pharmacies that stock these important medicines. Informed by evidence-based practices and palliative providers' input, the CML enhances access to palliative care medicines when needed most. We anticipate this resource will significantly improve accessibility to essential medicines.

Visit our PCAM page for a complete Core Medicines List (CML) and the map identifying the location of participating local community pharmacies in south east Melbourne.

Advance Care Planning

Advance care planning is the process of planning for someone's future health care and the care they would (or would not) like to receive in the event of serious illness, when they are unable to communicate their preferences, or at the end of their life. Visit our Advanced Care Planning page for resources and services that can help you with this important process.

What’s next?

SEMPHN is launching a general practice in-reach Advanced Care Planning education and upskilling program in partnership with three local Health Network ACP teams over the next few months.

We encourage you to visit our Palliative Care page and palliativecare.org.au for further information and resources to support health professionals in having conversations about #MattersOfLifeAndDeath. 

What is a My Health Record security and access policy and why does my practice need one?

Wed, 01 May 2024 04:54:23 GMT

All healthcare providers in Australia have professional and legal obligations to protect their patients' sensitive health information.

Practice owners and managers need to understand their obligations under the Privacy Act 1988 and should be striving to embed good privacy in their practice.

In addition, healthcare organisations are required, by legislation, to have a written My Health Record security and access policy to register, and remain registered, with My Health Record regardless of the organisation’s size or how often they access the My Health Record system.

At a minimum, an organisation’s My Health Record security and access policy must address the following:

how people are authorised to access the My Health Record system, and how access is deactivated or suspended when certain circumstances arise
the training that is provided to employees before they access the My Health Record system, including how to use the system accurately and responsibly, the legal obligations on healthcare provider organisations and individuals and the consequences of breaching those obligations
the process for identifying a person who requests access to a healthcare recipient’s My Health Record and communicating the person’s identity to the System Operator
the physical and information security measures taken by the healthcare provider organisation and people accessing the My Health Record system
mitigation strategies to promptly identify, act upon and report security risks
assisted registration information (if applicable)

Having a My Health Record security and access policy helps to ensure that the information held within My Health Record is used appropriately, kept secure and protected.

Listen to the Australian Digital Health Agency’s new podcast to learn more about the key components of a My Health Record security and access policy.

You can also reach out to SEMPHN's Digital Health Team for support by emailing digitalhealth@semphn.org.au .

Apply for the ANZAED Eating Disorder Credential

Tue, 23 Apr 2024 04:09:18 GMT

GPs can now become Credentialed Eating Disorder Clinicians

With support from the Department of Health and Aged Care, the Australia & New Zealand Academy for Eating Disorders (ANZAED) is proudly expanding the ANZAED Eating Disorder Credential to GPs to enhance the effectiveness and consistency of care for eating disorders in Australia.

The Credential for GPs emphasises early identification and initial response for people with eating disorders , encompassing screening, assessment, diagnosis, and referral to appropriate treatment providers. Importantly, it connects help-seekers with Credentialed Eating Disorder Clinicians through a searchable directory on the connect·ed website.

Once credentialed, GPs will receive public recognition for their knowledge and commitment to providing eating disorder care via a post-nominal, certificate, digital badge and profile listing on the searchable directory . Credentialed GPs will also have access to webinars for ongoing professional development and an online moderated forum to connect with other GPs working in this space.

Applications for the Credential for GPs are free until 30 June 2024.

Find out more and apply for the ANZAED Eating Disorder Credential at www.connected.anzaed.org.au

You can also view a recorded GP Information webinar here .

Our Care Coordination Support Service is growing!

Thu, 04 Apr 2024 00:17:44 GMT

We’re excited to announce that the Care Coordination Support Service (CCSS) is growing, and is now available in all Local Government Areas (LGAs) within south eastern Melbourne.

Delivered by Silverchain , CCSS links individuals with the appropriate clinical and non-clinical services to support their wellbeing, reduce presentations at emergency departments and decrease preventable hospital admissions.

The service supports patients based on their individual needs and will complement the care and clinical services offered by local general practices and pharmacies. This includes:

Supporting general practices to provide patient-centred care through comprehensive care coordination activities
Linking people who don’t have a regular GP, and are more likely to access emergency department services, to general practice services
Developing and implementing a pharmacy-based after hours awareness initiative to increase consumer awareness of local services
Developing a potential referral pathway involving public hospitals.

An active participant of the CCSS program, Dr Gowri Ratnavelar from GPG GP Clinic says that the program has enabled her to provide greater support to her community and empowered patients better navigate the healthcare system.

A sole practitioner, Dr Gowri works with many refugee and recent migrant patients who often require more personalised support, tailored to their individual needs.

“Many of my patients have complex needs, and indeed complex lives. They need to be made to feel comfortable. CCSS support staff from Silverchain provide this with empathy and compassion,” Dr Gowri said.

“The CCSS program has made a big difference to my practice. Together, we can do more for patients. It’s a great service – patients really benefit and I highly recommend it.”

If you have any questions or need to check your patient’s eligibility for this service, you can contact Silverchain on 1300 300 122 or email screferrals@silverchain.org.au

RACGP updates the definition of general practices

Wed, 03 Apr 2024 21:34:29 GMT

The RACGP published a new definition of a general practice for accreditation in the Standards for general practices (5th edition).

The definition change means that access to accreditation against the Standards is now extended to non-traditional general practice models, which may include mobile services (such as outreach disability services) or those servicing a specific patient cohort within facilities (e.g. Residential aged care facilities (RACFs) or disability homes).

The updated definition does not exclude currently accredited services by adding limiting parameters.

RACGP have developed an Interpretive guide for the accreditation of general practices under the new definition of a general practice for the purpose of accreditation , which assists practices seeking accreditation, and agencies and surveyors assessing practices under the new definition.

Practices who want to know about their eligibility for accreditation can contact an accreditation agency approved under the National General Practice Accreditation Scheme.

For more information or assistance, contact standards@racgp.org.au .

[Closed] Applications open! Join our Clinical and Community Council

Mon, 01 Apr 2024 11:45:57 GMT

SEMPHN is looking for three local health professionals or people with lived experience to join our Clinical and Community Council.

What is the Clinical and Community Council?

Established in 2015, SEMPHN’s Clinical and Community Council consists of representatives across community primary health services.

The Council provides advice and recommendations to SEMPHN and our Board of Directors. The Council’s insights support SEMPHN to achieve its vision of fostering and supporting a more equitable, person-centred and seamless health system, positively impacting health outcomes for local communities. 

The role of the Council includes:

Providing clinical advice and guidance on matters relating to safe and high-quality planning, implementation and ongoing evaluation of health services and/or programs, which SEMPHN commissions or partners to provide
Providing oversight of SEMPHN’s Advisory System, including Reference Groups as established by the Council or as requested by SEMPHN’s Board or management
Participating in, or leading Reference Groups to complete the work of SEMPHN

About your role

As a Clinical and Community Council member, you will contribute your expertise and experience to inform decision making about SEMPHN’s programs, services and commissioning activities.

You are required to attend two (2) of the three (3) Council meetings per calendar year and will receive a sitting fee for your attendance.

Collectively, the Council will develop an annual Work Plan to be approved by the SEMPHN Board. Some reporting and paperwork may be required to communicate the Council’s advice to SEMPHN’s Board.

For a full range of responsibilities, please read the Position Description .

Who should apply?

We are currently recruiting three new members to our Clinical and Community Council. Candidates working in primary care or community services or living in south east Melbourne are encouraged to apply. To balance the skills and expertise of existing Council membership, SEMPHN is looking for candidates with an interest or speciality in:

First Nations peoples
Suicide prevention
Women with perinatal depression
General Practice
Community Health
LGBTIQA+
Pharmacy

Additional experience in Digital Health, Health workforce, Aged Care, Mental Health, Alcohol and Other Drugs and/ or Population Health is highly desirable.

SEMPHN is an equal opportunity organisation and as such welcomes and encourages applications from people who may have diverse backgrounds, abilities and experiences.

How to apply

If you are interested in applying, please follow the below process:

Read the Position Description and Terms of Reference .
Write a one-page cover letter addressing your experience and/ or expertise in one of the seven interest or specialty areas listed above. You may include qualifications, skills and any prior committee experience
Email your Cover Letter to engagement@semphn.org.au by Friday 10 May 2024 .

Please note, a police check will be required for shortlisted candidates.

For enquiries or questions please contact:

Brian O’Sullivan
Executive Director, People, Communications and Engagement Services
03 8514 4410
brian.osullivan@semphn.org.au

MyMedicare: “About You” Voluntary Patient Information

Thu, 28 Mar 2024 04:51:46 GMT

From 6 April 2024, the Department of Health and Aged Care (the department) will introduce the ability for patients to provide additional information about themselves as part of their MyMedicare registration, should they choose to.

The "About You" questions will enable patients to voluntarily provide information about themselves including whether they identify as First Nations, have a disability and/or have a cultural and linguistically diverse (CALD) background. There is also a question about their gender and sexual orientation.

The "About You" voluntary patient questions will be automatically added to the MyMedicare registration of existing patients, with the default response set to 'blank'. Patients can choose to answer these questions in their MyMedicare registration, select "prefer not to answer," or opt out of providing a response.

Why?

The information provided will enable the Government to further understand how people from population groups access health services and identify service gaps for specific high-risk populations and regions. This information could then be used to inform policy and program design, enabling the department to better target resources, communications strategies and support.

What do you need to do?

Where patients have provided answers to the “About You” questions on the MyMedicare registration form, practices need to record these answers in the ‘Demographics’ section in the MyMedicare patient registration screen in their MyMedicare system.

From 6 April 2024 , updated practice registration forms can be accessed from the MyMedicare website MyMedicare Registration Form | Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care . Hardcopies of the updated registration forms can also be ordered from the MyMedicare website.

Read the department's letter here.

New criteria to reduce wait times for eligible patients requiring plastic surgery or with joint or lower back pain

Wed, 20 Mar 2024 22:58:49 GMT

New statewide referral criteria for plastic surgery and joint pain come into effect from 1 March 2024 in all Victorian public hospitals.

When a referring GP successfully uses the new criteria for plastic surgery or joint pain to refer a patient to a public hospital, patients can be placed directly onto the specialist clinics wait list. The referral information encourages multi-disciplinary assessments to support non-surgical care and, when required appropriate direction to surgical treatment through the statewide referral criteria. This is why more information is needed in referrals – to support better access for patients.

The Victorian Department of Health has developed and published statewide referral criteria for 14 conditions across the joint pain and plastic surgery speciality suites.

Joint pain (focusing on hip and knee conditions, shoulder conditions, progressive low back pain)

Plastic Surgery (focussing on hand and skin lesions)

These two new suites join the 13 suites of statewide referral criteria already in existence across Victoria.

GPs and other primary care providers can visit their local PHN's Pathways page or src.health.vic.gov.au to find these and the other statewide referral criteria.

GPs and other primary care providers are encouraged to check their local Pathways website when making referrals – this will be the quickest way to understand their local public hospital’s requirements. It is also a helpful way to trouble shoot management of these conditions when a referral to specialist clinics is not indicated.

Statewide referral criteria apply to public hospitals and health services only. They do not apply to private hospitals. Breast Surgery is the next suite of criteria scheduled for release on 1 June 2024, additional specialities set to be released throughout 2024.

Important notice for GP Grant recipients

Thu, 07 Mar 2024 23:31:10 GMT

If you were a recipient of the Strengthening Medicare – GP Grants Program, you will be required to complete a Financial Acquittal Report and Self-Evaluation Survey to acquit your grant.

In April 2023, the Australian Government invested $220 million in grants over two years from 2022-23 to 2023-24 through the Strengthening Medicare – GP Grants Program.

The Program was developed to support general practices and eligible Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations (ACCHOs) make improvements to their practices to expand patient access and support safe, and accessible, quality primary care.

Financial Acquittal Report

As indicated in the funding agreement, the grantee is required to submit a Financial Acquittal Report to describe how the grant has been used and that the funding has been spent in accordance with the grant agreement.

The report is a simple itemisation of the expenses/costs covered using the grant, including identifying any unspent grant funds. This is also an opportunity for SEMPHN to identify unspent funds and assist your practice to spend the total grant funds before the closure of the Program.

The online report must be completed as soon as funds have been spent, and no later than 31 July 2024.

Self-Evaluation Survey

The Self-Evaluation Survey must also be completed online. The Survey will provide valuable data to the Department of Health and Aged Care on the GP Grants Program.

How is SEMPHN helping?

To assist practices in completing the report, SEMPHN is sending emails to practices advising of the requirements to complete the report and including the necessary information. The email will be sent to the Practice Owner/s or Authorised person (Grantee representative) nominated in the Grant Agreement.

SEMPHN will provide the following information to assist practices in completing the report:

Full legal name of Grantee (Practice name)
Trading as/Business name
Australian Business Number (ABN)
Primary Health Network (PHN)
Address of General Practice
General Practice email address
Agreement ID number

If you received a GP Grant and do not receive an email by 13 March 2024 , please email grants@semphn.org.au .

Further information and links to complete the Financial Acquittal Report and Self-Evaluation Survey can be found here .

Enhancing primary care integration in the perioperative patient journey

Wed, 06 Mar 2024 04:32:52 GMT

With the core aim of reforming the entire planned care sector within the State, the Victorian Department of Health has released its Planned Surgery Reform Blueprint.

Containing ten key reforms spanning the entire health system, the blueprint is a workplan for the Department and its key stakeholders as it sets about reforms for the system to address challenges, from even prior to the pandemic.

Reforms will ultimately mean more Victorians are getting the care they need and deserve in better times, with less waiting.

One of the reforms is dedicated to enhancing primary care integration in the perioperative patient journey. The Department’s Planned Care Recovery and Reform’s online statewide Community of Practice on Tuesday 19 March 2024 from 2.00-3.30pm , will focus on this reform. Healthcare professionals are invited to this free event and can request an invitation by emailing surgicalreform@health.vic.gov.au .

The line up of presenters include RACGP Victorian Council Chair Dr Anita Munoz, Safer Care Victoria’s Perioperative Health Learning team, the Department’s Improving Clinical Handover Program team and a regional Victorian health service that has collaborated with its local GPs to distribute timely patient discharge summaries.

Same day surgery resource for primary care is now available!

Safer Care Victoria’s Perioperative Learning Health Network has released a new patient resource on same day surgery . This resource is available in multiple languages and designed to guide patients and healthcare teams on how best to prepare and what to expect from day surgery.

Stay in touch!

The Department would love to stay in touch so please email surgicalreform@health.vic.gov.au to gain access to their Planned Surgery monthly bulletin and SharePoint site.

Primary Health Networks welcome audit

Fri, 01 Mar 2024 03:06:02 GMT

The Victorian and Tasmanian Primary Health Network Alliance (VTPHNA) welcomes the Australian National Audit Office’s report into the effectiveness of the Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care’s performance management of Primary Health Networks (PHNs).

The audit examined the Department’s compliance and assurance arrangements, performance measurement and reporting for PHNs. It also evaluated the PHN delivery model against its objectives.

Overall, the auditors found the Department was partially effective in this. Public transparency and evaluation were seen as key improvement areas.

The VTPHNA CEOs said the findings highlight a welcome signal for clear measurement and better transparency of the outcome of PHNs’ work in the communities they serve.

“We see this review as timely, given the significant growth in the services delivered by the national network of PHNs in recent years,” they said.

“We believe the audit provides an opportunity to review and strengthen the performance measures to align with key outcomes and expectations.

“PHNs are an established and important part of our primary health system. They support service integration, capacity building and commission services based on the needs of individual communities.”

The audit made eight recommendations for improvement; the Department agreed to seven recommendations and agreed in principle to the eighth.

VTPHNA members, like PHNs around the country, look forward to working closely with the Department through a shared commitment to continuous improvement. It is in everyone’s interest that the PHN Program is managed effectively and achieves its objectives.

In particular, the report provides an opportunity to work together to determine the funding solutions that result in highest impact on health outcomes for communities.

View the report on the Australian National Audit Office website .

Key findings from our 2023 Stakeholder Engagement Survey

Thu, 22 Feb 2024 21:57:01 GMT

South Eastern Melbourne PHN (SEMPHN) is committed to listening to and learning from you so that together, we can help people in south east Melbourne live their healthiest lives.

At the end of last year, we asked you to complete an online survey to better understand how you engage with, experience and rate SEMPHN staff and services.

We received 485 responses to the survey from a range of sectors including general practice, community health, pharmacy, allied health, hospital, government, research and aged care.

Thanks to you (and our promise to donate $2 for every survey response we received) – we donated $970 to WAYSS to assist people experiencing homelessness or family violence in south east Melbourne.

Key findings:

81% understand SEMPHN services
67% agree that SEMPHN is an important partner for your organisation
60% agree that SEMPHN’s services and support help your organisation to deliver better quality health services
You are most likely to engage with SEMPHN services via 1) Commissioning 2) Education, Training or Events 3) General Practice Support 4) Data and Reporting 5) Communications
The top priority populations you think SEMPHN should prioritise are: people with mental illness, people with multiple chronic diseases, people at risk of/experiencing homelessness, and older people.

Our next steps involve unpacking the findings to understand where we can deliver the greatest value to you. This is the first year of our five year ‘Path to Impact’ Strategy, and we are excited to continue learning and partnering with you to create opportunities for people in south east Melbourne to live their healthiest lives.

10 tips for managing patients from refugee backgrounds

Wed, 21 Feb 2024 03:49:38 GMT

The top 10 tips for managing patients from refugee backgrounds, provided by Dr Larissa Wale, Refugee Fellow at Monash Refugee Health Service.

1. Use accredited interpreters (onsite or telephone) for non-English speaking clients rather than family/friends/staff

Use of interpreters has been shown to improve both delivery of care and patient experience whilst also reducing medico-legal risk. General practice can register with FREE service TIS to get a client code. Contact the Telephone Interpreting Service (TIS and ATIS) on 1300 131 450 or access 24/7
TIS National Doctors Priority Line .

2. Be aware of entitlement difference between an asylum seeker and refugee

Status identification and understanding the difference between a refugee and asylum seeker is important. Refugees will have the access to Medicare, Centrelink and settlement support. Asylum seekers often present with complex vulnerabilities associated with visa status which may impact work rights and access to financial support, case management and Medicare.

3. Use Refugee Health Assessment (RHA) for screening new patients

Utilise longer or multiple appointments to complete RHA. RHA is a useful template for all new refugee patients and the dedicated RHA MBS billing item can be used if the patient is ≤1year post arrival/visa lodgement.

Refugee Health Assessment Template : Note – this can be incorporated into practice software (Best Practice and Medical Director)
See information on MBS billing

4. Complete on-arrival pathology screening

The RHA recommends screening for a number of infectious diseases and nutritional deficiencies.

5. Consider referring all new clients to public dental/optometry/ audiology services

These are all high-prevalence on-arrival health concerns.

6. Consider mental health referrals

Foundation House is a dedicated torture and trauma service in Dandenong. Referrals can be made via their website
For access to psychological services with an interpreter, refer to the local Primary Health Network

7. Utilise health literacy resources

Resources to develop culturally competent practice include ceh.org.au and for scripts easidose.com . Remember to explain what a prescription 'repeat' is.

8. Provide catch-up immunisations as indicated

Check for pre-existing immunisation records and use national immunisation schedule and catch-up schedule .

9. Use dedicated refugee health resources

For updates on services, policies, and refugee specific issues, consider joining the Victorian Refugee Health Network (VRHN) or visit refugeehealthnetwork.org.au

10. Monash Health Refugee Health and Wellbeing and Refugee Health

Monash Health Refugee Health and Wellbeing is a dedicated refugee health service funded by the Department of Health.

Further information on how and when to refer:

Visit Monash Health's Refugee Health and Wellbeing
Contact the Refugee Health Nurse Triage at refugeehealthnurseontriage@monashhealth.org or phone 9792 8100
For clinical advice please email Monash Health Refugee Fellow Dr Larissa Wale larissa.wale@monashhealth.org

Expression of Interest: Improving CALD communities access to care

Tue, 20 Feb 2024 21:11:12 GMT

Are you a GP or a Nurse Practitioner who is keen to help Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) communities improve their access to care?

The South East Public Health Unit (SEPHU) is running a pilot to connect people who have recently arrived in Australia with a General Practice that can provide clinical management of Hepatitis B and C. Optimising links into care is crucial to eliminating viral hepatitis. You can contact SEPHU on SEPHU.Trace@monashhealth.org

SEPHU is working with the Victorian Department of Health to deliver tailored public health actions. South Eastern Melbourne has a large CALD population and SEPHU is piloting the role of Cultural Liaison Officer to enhance the follow-up of notifiable communicable diseases.

The Cultural Liaison Officer is supporting new migrants and refugees with Hepatitis B and C to negotiate the health system and prevent patients falling through the gaps. We are seeking GPs and Nurse Practitioners who want to help.

Your General Practice would work with the Cultural Liaison Officer and a maximum of 5 patients in a year (more Hepatitis B than C cases) depending on language spoken and location.

You would be asked to: 

Provide clinical care and management for people from CALD backgrounds with viral hepatitis B and C and their contacts who are at risk of infection, for example the Hepatitis B vaccination of household contacts.
Guide access to other appropriate healthcare services thus helping to navigate the health system.

Although this project focuses on viral hepatitis among CALD populations, SEPHU acknowledges that other communicable diseases are also more prevalent in CALD communities. A benefit of this project is that it is likely generalisable to the management of other notifiable conditions impacting CALD communities.

We hope this project will develop collaborative partnerships that tackle health disparities in our local communities.

If you wish to participate in supporting the management of hepatitis B and/or C in CALD communities, managing notified conditions in general in CALD communities or require further information, please contact SEPHU.Trace@monashhealth.org

Expression of Interest: Integrating non-dispensing pharmacists into general practice

Tue, 20 Feb 2024 00:23:49 GMT

In partnership with the Pharmaceutical Society of Australia (PSA), SEMPHN is seeking eight general practices from the Mornington Peninsula, Bayside and Frankston Local Government Areas (LGAs) to join our Pharmacists in General Practice program.

Why is this program needed?

Similar projects throughout Australia have demonstrated that integrating pharmacists into general practice can result in improved practice efficiency and patient care outcomes .

Designed to support existing practices, the program can help to facilitate more integrated patient care, improve patient medication adherence and enhance prescribing practices.

What is involved?

Successful general practices will gain access to an experienced pharmacist (at no cost to the practice) who will work alongside practice staff to provide training and support, tailored to your specific needs.

The project involves a non-dispensing clinical pharmacist working as part of the general practice team for 15 hours per week. The pharmacist will undertake a variety of medication-related activities, which may include:

Providing medication education to patients
Transition of care management
Identifying and resolving medication issues
Answering GPs’ and other practice staff’s medication questions
Supporting activities that enhance MBS billing
Working with other health care professionals when patients transition in and out of hospital or residential aged care facilities to ensure medicine continuation

The project is expected to commence in March 2024 and end in January 2025.

How to express your interest

For further eligibility requirements or to express your interest in this opportunity, please download the simple application form below and return to Adeline.Tan@psa.org.au by 8 March 2024.

If you have any questions, please contact Adeline.Tan@psa.org.au .

New criteria for eligible patients requiring colonoscopy or gastroscopy in Victorian public hospitals

Wed, 14 Feb 2024 04:51:50 GMT

New ‘companion’ statewide referral criteria for category one patients with specific indications that require colonoscopy or gastroscopy come into effect from 1 February 2024.

The criteria are:

It's important to note that the use of the new criteria is not mandatory. They are designed to reduce overall wait times by replacing existing locally described referral criteria, potentially aiding public hospitals and health services to move to a ‘streamlined access model’.

The need for an endoscopy for other indications should be considered during a consultation between a patient and a gastroenterologist.

When a referring GP uses the new criteria to refer a patient to a public hospital that is using a streamlined access model, patients can be placed directly onto the wait list for their procedure without needing to wait for an outpatient appointment. This is why more information is needed in referrals – to support the assessment of anaesthetic and bleeding risk as well as risk factors for poor bowel preparation.

The criteria also offer referring clinicians the option to choose between referral for an endoscopic procedure, or referral to a specialist clinic based on what they know about the patient’s needs.

The criteria were developed by a clinical review panel formed by the Victorian Department of Health and comprising GPs and public hospital-based clinicians specialising in these patient groups.

They provide public hospitals and health services with tools and opportunities to redesign local processes as needed, while also facilitating access to colonoscopy for the National Bowel Cancer Screening Program and supporting the use of eReferrals.

Richmond GP Dr Jeannie Knapp is a GP advisor at North Western Melbourne Primary Health Network. She said the criteria are good news for patients and another step towards a more consistent health system.

"When used appropriately, these new companion statewide referral criteria mean one less appointment for patients who qualify to go to direct to the waitlist for their procedure,” she said.

“I’m also hopeful that public hospitals with less efficient referral procedures for these indications can now streamline them.”

Health services using a streamlined access model have been advised to use these criteria from 1 February 2024 and should publish updated information about making referrals on their websites.

GPs and other primary care providers are encouraged to check their local HealthPathways or care pathways website when making referrals – this will be the quickest way to understand their local public hospital’s requirements.

GPs can visit src.health.vic.gov.au to view the criteria.

Statewide referral criteria apply to public hospitals and health services only. They do not apply to private hospitals.

Are you a MATOD prescriber looking for more real-world experience?

Sun, 11 Feb 2024 21:15:00 GMT

SEMPHN is offering Medication-Assisted Treatment of Opioid Dependence (MATOD) accredited general practitioners an opportunity to take part in our MATOD Clinical Placement Program.

This MATOD Clinical Placement Program (the Program) is designed to build the skills and confidence of general practitioners who want to provide quality MATOD services to patients who live with Opioid Use Disorder.

A generous rate of reimbursement is offered to participants for the time involved in undertaking the training.

Many doctors, despite their best intentions, find themselves reluctant to engage in MATOD prescribing even after having completed their accreditation training. The two factors most commonly cited as contributing to this are 1) a lack of opportunities to prescribe MATOD soon after completing their training, and 2) a lack of support to prescribe the same.

The Program aims to provide MATOD-accredited GPs with experience and education; working in the “real world”, at high-volume general practice clinics alongside practiced MATOD prescribers, and undertaking further MATOD-related education and mentoring that builds effectively upon the credentialing coursework.

The Program is available to any General Practitioner who is accredited to prescribe Medication-Assisted Treatment of Opioid Dependence.

Program overview

The Program is split into two sections.

Level 1 (Online Coursework & “Observership” Clinical Placements)

Level 1 will provide the applicant clinician (the Trainee) an opportunity to observe an experienced MATOD prescriber (Supervisor) undertake consultations with patients receiving treatment for Opioid Use Disorder. This experience will be supplemented with online coursework and mentoring sessions that build on their existing knowledge of MATOD prescribing.

The breakdown:

Completed over 4 weeks (28 hours in total)
4 hours per week Clinical Placement at high-volume MATOD GP practice, observing an experienced MATOD prescriber (16 hours total)
Online Coursework (8 hours total, eligible for 8 Education Activity CPD hours)
1 hour per week (over 4 weeks) out-of-clinic Mentoring session with an experienced MATOD prescriber (4 hours total. eligible for 4 Reviewing Performance CPD hours).

Level 1 can be undertaken as a standalone program, if desired. Completion of Level One is a pre-requisite for participation in Level Two and priority will be given to applicants completing both programs.

Level 2 (“Supervised Practice” Clinical Placements)

Level 2 will provide the Trainee an opportunity to run a series of 4-hour “locum” clinics at the practice which hosted their Level 1 placement, with the assurance of support from the Supervisor. As in Level 1, mentoring sessions with an experienced MATOD prescriber will take place concurrently. This part of the program is designed to provide the Trainee with an “experience of mastery” which will build confidence and reduce the apprehension regularly reported as a barrier to MATOD prescribing.

The breakdown:

Completed over 8 weeks (36 hours in total)
4 hours per week Clinical Placement at high-volume MATOD GP practice, practicing with supervision under an experienced MATOD prescriber (32 hours total)
1 hour per fortnight (over 8 weeks) out-of-clinic Mentoring session with an experienced MATOD prescriber (4 hours total, eligible for 4 Reviewing Performance CPD hours).

Benefits of participating in the Program

Hands-on, real-world learning in a highly supportive general practice environment
Build on prior MATOD training and experience
Guaranteed exposure to MATOD prescribing
Fit the program into your working week
Choice of two levels of engagement
Eligible for recording as CPD hours
Remuneration for training time (see the MATOD Clinical Placement Program - Medical Practitioner Guide for details)

How to apply

Places are limited, so please ensure you apply asap. Early registration is encouraged. Please find the Expression of Interest (EOI) application here.

Should you have any questions in relation to the program please don’t hesitate to contact A4PN@semphn.org.au or call 03 8514 6600.

Not accredited but interested?

Are you a general practitioner visiting Residential Aged Care Homes?

Wed, 07 Feb 2024 22:53:36 GMT

The MyMedicare initiative aims to improve healthcare planning, increase visits, and enhance patient experiences for residents in aged care homes.

The General Practice in Aged Care Incentive is designed to provide consistent high-quality primary care for aged care residents by their regular GPs and practices.

From 1 August 2024 , GPs and practices registered in MyMedicare will receive incentives for delivering comprehensive care, including health assessments, care plans and regular visits to their registered patients in Residential Aged Care Homes (RACH).

RACH residents will be required to be registered in MyMedicare and the GP linked to the patient’s registered practice for GPs to access the incentive.

Further information about the Aged Care incentive can be found here .

How do Aged Care Residents register for MyMedicare?

Practices and GPs are encouraged to register their aged care resident patients in MyMedicare as a priority to fully benefit from the incentive.

Residents can register with the help of their doctor, through their Medicare Online Account or Express Plus Medicare mobile application , or through a paper-based form . There is no need to physically attend a practice.

Residents who have a Medicare or DVA card and have received two in person appointments with their regular practice in the preceding 24 months (or one appointment in rural and remote areas) can register for MyMedicare. Noting that Services Australia is unable to process hardcopy registration forms. Practices must enter these into Health Professional Online Services and keep a copy in the patient’s clinical records.

Resources to support Aged Care Resident engagement

To help you talk with your residents about MyMedicare and answer questions they may have, the Department of Health and Aged Care has released resources , including translated material , for general practices and healthcare providers. Additionally, SEMPHN has created a key messages document to assist with conversations.

Translated support material:

Patient registration support resources for general practices and healthcare providers:

Dementia Rehabilitation expansion announcement

Wed, 31 Jan 2024 22:54:55 GMT

South Eastern Melbourne Primary Health Network (SEMPHN) is pleased to announce the expansion of the dementia Rehabilitation Program for older people (65+) living with dementia in the South Eastern Melbourne region.

Residents living in the City of Greater Dandenong, City of Kingston and City of Frankston can now access the Dementia Rehabilitation Program. Mornington Peninsula Shire and City of Casey residents remain eligible and can continue accessing the program.

About the 12-week in-home program

Delivered by Encara , the in-home Dementia Rehabilitation Program aims to improve access to allied health-led rehabilitation activities to support independence and wellbeing. Led by a team of Allied Health Professionals, providing podiatry, physiotherapy, occupational therapy, aromatherapy with optional art therapy and music therapy.

An important component of the program is education , with both the client and their family member or carer. This aspect aims to provide assistance navigating the health system, to bring awareness to available resources and services, and to make the dealing with a dementia diagnosis a little bit easier.

The latest MyMedicare updates

Thu, 18 Jan 2024 23:29:13 GMT

The latest MyMedicare updates to assist patient registration in anticipation of the National Consumer Campaign launching in February 2024.

MyMedicare patient registration templates are now available in MedicalDirector and Best Practice

Department of Health and Aged Care (DoHAC) and Services Australia have been engaging with the sector, including the Medical Software Vendors Industry Association (MSIA), to agree the design specifications for integration of the MyMedicare initiative with patient management software.

My Health Record and the myhealth app now display a patient’s MyMedicare registered practice and doctor

This integration will help to improve correspondence between hospitals and primary care, ensuring the sharing of critical health information is going to the correct health professional.

The Community stakeholder Information kit is available to support consumer registration and answer questions.

This kit includes information and communications resources you can share with your community to learn more about MyMedicare and help support registration. It will also support you in answering any questions you may receive about MyMedicare.

MyMedicare fact sheets are now available in English , Arabic , Simplified Chinese , Traditional Chinese , Greek , Italian , Korean and Vietnamese .

We encourage practices working with patients from multicultural backgrounds to start informing their patients about MyMedicare and encouraging them to register.

If your practice is manually accepting/declining patient-initiated registrations, you will only have 30 days to review before the registration expires

Practices can elect to manually accept patient registrations that are made through the Medicare Online App. These registrations come through the MyMedicare system at the practice as ‘pending registration’ (not complete) and practices must then go in and accept or decline each one. Services Australia advises there are a significant number of these, and that pending registrations expire after 30 days, after which the patient needs to re-register. For more on managing patient registrations and preference settings, see MYMEDM02-Managing patient registrations (servicesaustralia.gov.au) module (pg 27).

The Residential Aged Care Home (RACH) registration form has been updated.

Residents who have a Medicare or DVA card and have received two in person appointments with their regular practice in the preceding 24 months (or one appointment in rural and remote areas) can register for MyMedicare. Noting that Services Australia is unable to process hardcopy registration forms. Practices must enter these into Health Professional Online Services and keep a copy in the patient’s clinical records.

For more information on MyMedicare, including practice and patient registration, visit our dedicated MyMedicare page .

Refugee support for people affected by the crisis in the Middle East

Thu, 21 Dec 2023 02:25:49 GMT

Due to current global events, there may be an increase in the number of Afghan, Palestinian and Israeli refugees arriving in Australia.

SEMPHN is helping provide connections to primary health care for these individuals.

If you have non-Medicare refugee patients without health insurance, please refer them to Monash Health Refugee Health and Wellbeing . Monash Health provides a range of no-cost services for refugee and asylum seekers in our catchment. The website is a great source of information for health professionals.

Monash Health Refugee Health and Wellbeing

Opening hours: Monday - Friday, 9am to 5pm (open over festive period)
Refugee Triage Nurse: (03) 9792 8100
Refugee Nurse Liaison: (03) 9554 9776
Address: Refugee Health and Wellbeing, Level 1, 122 Thomas Street, Dandenong VIC 3175

Please refer to SEMPHN’s Refugee and Asylum Seeker Health page for further resources.

Priority Primary Care Clinics

Priority Primary Care Clinics (PPCCs) are available and ready to provide no-cost medical care to refugees with or without Medicare cards during the festive period. PPCCs can access interpreters for non-English speaking patients through the TIS National Doctors Priority Line .

PPCCs provide care for people with conditions that require urgent attention but not an emergency response. They support nearby hospital emergency departments by providing same-day GP appointments for non-life-threatening injuries or illnesses such as mild infections, fractures and burns. They also offer pathology and imaging services onsite or nearby.

All PPCCs are now open 14 hours, 7 days a week (including public holidays).

PPCCs in south east Melbourne

Dandenong PPCC (supporting Dandenong Hospital)
Greens Medical Group (Keys Medical)
1/134 Logis Blvd, Dandenong South
Phone bookings: (03) 9579 7933
Online bookings: greensmedicalgroup.com.au/dandenong-priority-primary-care-centre

Frankston PPCC (supporting Frankston Hospital)
1-3/49 Beach St, Frankston
Phone bookings: (03) 9119 1077
Online bookings: frankstonppcc.com.au

Prahran PPCC (supporting the Alfred Hospital)
Sandringham Ambulatory Care Centre
20 Commercial Road, Melbourne
Phone bookings: (03) 9119 1055
Online bookings: prahranppcc.com.au

Narre Warren PPCC (supporting Casey Hospital)
ForHealth Narregate Medical & Dental Centre
60 Victor Cres, Narre Warren
Phone bookings: (03)9771 2020
Online bookings: narregatemedicalcentre.com.au/priority-primary-care-centre

As of November 2024, Primary Care Clinics have been re-branded as Medicare Urgent Care Clinics (UCCs). Medicare Urgent Care Clinics are commissioned by Primary Health Networks with funding from the Australian Government.

Translated Resources

Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS) National is a free interpreting service providing equitable access to key services for people with limited or no English language proficiency. Visit TIS National Doctors Priority Line to book an interpreter.

Additionally, we have some translated materials available for Arabic-speaking patients:

Further information

See Monash Health’s latest newsletter which contains 10 great tips for managing patients from refugee backgrounds.
Visit the Department of Health for further guidance on free public healthcare options.

RACH Telehealth Training Program coming in March 2024

Tue, 19 Dec 2023 03:20:21 GMT

South Eastern Melbourne PHN is partnering with a national consortium of fifteen Primary Health Networks across Australia, to develop a comprehensive Residential Aged Care Home (RACH) Telehealth Training Program.

The RACH Telehealth Training Program seeks to:

provide nationally consistent and resident-centric telehealth training that is readily available for RACH staff and visiting or remote-end clinicians
address a gap in providing training and support to uplift the telehealth capability of residential aged care homes
ensure a safe, effective, and available service for older Australians reducing the need for unnecessary transfers for clinical services.

About the project

Obvious Choice, an award-winning learning design agency with experience designing training programs within the aged care sector, has been contracted to deliver the program.

The initiative will enhance the skills of RACH staff and visiting or remote-end clinicians through the development of:

sixty, 6-minute learning modules, featuring authentic case studies, video mentoring and downloadable checklists
and comprehensive performance support resources.

Additionally, simple animations and fact sheets will be developed to engage residents, families, and caregivers effectively. The project team is also working to ensure the training program meets accreditation requirements for nurses and GPs.

Training package

The unique needs of the key audiences: residents, clinicians, families and carers, are being factored into the design of the training package to optimise engagement.

Within the specialised module streams there is a ‘telehealth self-diagnostic,’ that requires three minutes to complete, resulting in personalised learning plans, listing priority modules based on knowledge gaps.

Modules introduce and demonstrate the use of companion resources designed to build and consolidate the confidence and capability of learners. Learners can access these resources as downloadable assets during the learning experience or via a searchable digital ‘library.’

The training package will be made available to Residential Aged Care Homes early in the new year – delivery is on track for March 2024.

It’s time to remind your patients about sun protection this summer

Thu, 14 Dec 2023 23:23:55 GMT

In Victoria, there are around 150,000 treatments for non-melanoma skin cancers, and 2800 newly diagnosed melanomas each year.

Melanoma is considered the most serious or dangerous form of skin cancer because it is more likely to spread to other parts of the body, especially if not found early.

Over exposure to the sun's UV radiation causes 99% of melanoma and over 95% of non-melanoma skin cancer, making skin cancer the most preventable cancer through good sun protection.

This summer, SunSmart Victoria is launching a new campaign called ‘Don’t Let Cancer In’, in partnership with the Victorian Department of Health, to raise awareness of the serious consequences of skin cancer and increase sun protection behaviours among Victorian men and women.

How you can help

As health professionals, we all have a crucial role in addressing skin cancer incidence and impact by encouraging patients to use sun protection.

With the campaign running over summer, we encourage you to join us in supporting SunSmart and their campaign by reminding patients of their skin cancer risk and the importance of skin cancer prevention. SunSmart have developed an online toolkit for health professionals and you can learn more about their ‘Don’t Let Cancer In’ campaign at sunsmart.com.au .

Health professional training and resources

Head to SunSmart's health professionals' webpage for online training and resource options and information on the Dermoscopy for Victorian General Practice Program – where GPs can apply to receive a fully subsidised dermatoscope and training in dermoscopy.

Finish off the year strong by registering for Provider Connect Australia

Wed, 13 Dec 2023 01:59:00 GMT

As the end of year approaches, there’s an efficient way to update the business details of GPs and other healthcare providers moving in and out of your practice.

The free Provider Connect Australia™ (also known as PCA™), an initiative of the Australian Digital Health Agency (the Agency), provides a single place to update your business information and services, which can automatically update your National Health Service Directory (NHSD) listing and your local Primary Health Network.

PCA™ reduces data entry duplication and improves the accuracy and quality of healthcare service information. It lets you provide consistent, up-to-date information about healthcare services to funders, health service directories, communications services, and other key partners in your healthcare service delivery.

The use of PCA™ can significantly reduce the time spent updating business partners, ensures that updates are not missed, and reduces transcription errors that can occur with manual updates. PCA™ creates unique identifiers for healthcare services, service delivery locations and practitioners’ service delivery roles, allowing these to be reliably identified and linked across the healthcare system. These unique identifiers complement existing national identifiers for healthcare provider organisations and individuals.

You can self-register with Provider Connect Australia™ in your own time. Visit digitalhealth.gov.au/pca-register to find out how to register, access the pre-registration checklist and watch a video that explains the registration process.

Once registered, you can update your business information and it will automatically be sent to your registered business partners. This means you can maintain a single master copy of your organisation’s details and your chosen business partners will automatically receive any updates.

To date, more than 1,900 healthcare organisations across Australia are using PCA™ and a growing number of business partners are coming on board. The more business partners that come onboard, will ensure that PCA™ is a very valuable healthcare provider resource. Over time, business partners will include pathology and radiology services, public service directories, secure messaging providers, insurers and more.

A webinar with further details about Provider Connect Australia™ is expected to be released in early 2024.

Introducing the new and improved Practice Coaching!

Tue, 05 Dec 2023 21:53:22 GMT

SEMPHN’s free online training platform for general practice staff, Practice Coaching, has a new look and improved functionality.

Health workforce development is one of the key priorities outlined for Primary Health Networks. To support this, SEMPHN provides online education for general practices via an e-learning platform called Practice Coaching. SEMPHN offers this education as part of the strategic plan to build capacity for high quality, accessible, integrated and vibrant primary health care.

We’re pleased to present the latest update to Practice Coaching!

What’s new?

Practice Coaching has a new look and feel that visually aligns with other SEMPHN products.
Users can easily access an improved personal learning journey, including tracking their progress on the ‘My Learning’ dashboard.
Training histories are available to download to provide proof of continuing professional development (CPD).
Users can easily and securely change their passwords through a self-managed online process.
Users can easily explore a full catalogue of available learning modules (including several new modules).
Each user will require a unique login.

What hasn’t changed?

The website URL has remained the same: www.practicecoaching.com.au
Practice Coaching remains an e-learning platform to support the education/training of general practices

New headspace in South Melbourne to open in 2024

Tue, 05 Dec 2023 04:37:14 GMT

South Eastern Melbourne Primary Health Network is pleased to announce Access Health and Community will lead a consortium to support and deliver youth services in a new headspace centre in South Melbourne, due to open in mid-2024.

South Melbourne is part of the Local Government Area (LGA) of the City of Port Phillip, home to approximately 13,000 young people (12-25 years) with more than 1,500 young people living in low-income households.

According to headspace’s 2022 National Youth Mental Health Surveys , young people are struggling with their mental health due to stresses associated with the high cost of living, social media, climate change, and the pressures of working and studying.

The latest research found that housing and rent affordability were the most worrying concerns for young people, with 61% concerned about the affordability of rent. Social media often leads young people to compare their lives with others, adding to feelings of loneliness. The results found that almost 60% of young people feel isolated from others. Furthermore, only 39% of young people have high confidence in their ability to achieve their goals in the future.

headspace is tailored to provide young people in the area with better access to personalised and youth-friendly support services. headspace South Melbourne will support young people to access early intervention mental health services as well as supports around their physical and sexual health, alcohol and other drug (AOD) and work and study.

Young people will be involved in designing, monitoring and evaluating the headspace South Melbourne activities and services.

headspace South Melbourne is funded by the Australian Government under the Primary Health Network program.

More information regarding the location, opening timing, and consortia partners will become available in the upcoming months.

Providing early support for people impacted by unexpected or sudden death

Tue, 05 Dec 2023 03:57:43 GMT

For every unexpected death, an estimated four to six people will experience severe grief.

An unexpected or sudden death can leave witnesses or surrounding loved ones feeling shocked, traumatised and/ or alone in their loss. Grief can lead to various mental and physical health conditions, and in extreme cases, higher mortality rates.

While there is support for people experiencing bereavement, there are limited early intervention services available for those who are at the scene when police arrive.

In 2020, SEMPHN commissioned a unique collaboration between Victoria Police and Griefline to deliver a much-needed early intervention service. PoliceLine offers six free telehealth bereavement counselling sessions to community members in south east Melbourne who have witnessed non-suspicious deaths and have been referred by Victoria Police Victims Advisory Unit. This includes at-home incidents such as heart attacks, strokes and sepsis; or accidental incidents such as drowning and drug overdoses.*

Griefline receives close to 2,000 referrals from the Victoria Police electronic Referral (VPeR) system each year. Every referral gets access to Griefline’s digital support resources, as well as contact details for Griefline’s helpline service.

Around 600 people each year accept the offer of free counselling support with PoliceLine, which is more than one person a day.

Early findings from a new Doctorate of Clinical Psychology study reveal access to early intervention bereavement support, and programs like Policeline, can help reduce the escalation of grief into mental ill health.

Doctoral candidate Candice Mace along with her supervisor Dr Russell Deighton from the Cairnmillar Institute found there was a reliable and clinically significant reduction in psychological distress for people accessing PoliceLine, with symptoms of depression and anxiety decreasing overtime.

Kate Cahill, Chief Operating Officer at Griefline explains:

“The trained counsellors at Griefline do an amazing job holding people’s grief, loss and trauma in extreme situations. Equipping first responders with a service to refer people to that is free and includes multiple sessions, allows people to seek early support during crisis. It also eases pressure from the police force.”

These prospective findings reinforce the importance of early intervention services in improving health outcomes for people and creating a more streamlined health system.

A randomised control trial is being implemented in 2024 which aims to solidify these initial findings and explore mediating factors to the decrease in psychological distress. This understanding will lead to an improved intervention and training opportunities for Policeline counsellors.

*This service excludes high risk incidents such as suicide, homicides, traffic incidents and infant deaths – these are referred to other specialised services. If you, or someone you know has been impacted by suicide or sudden loss, download our free Postvention Toolkit .

Expression of Interest: Quality improvement activity to increase bowel cancer screening in general practice

Sun, 03 Dec 2023 22:21:56 GMT

SEMPHN is pleased to invite expressions of interest from general practices in the Local Government Areas (LGAs) of Greater Dandenong, Casey and Frankston to participate in a quality improvement activity to improve bowel cancer screening rates.

Why is this program needed?

SEMPHN’s Needs Assessment (2022-2025) indicates that bowel cancer screening rates in these LGAs are among the lowest in the state.

What is required?

Successful general practice applicants will receive funding to integrate bowel cancer screening processes into their broader practice to increase timely screening and help identify eligible patients . They will be required to:

Register their practice with the National Cancer Screening Register (NCSR)
Create workflows designed to support the objective and track data
Run POLAR reports to identify newly eligible and lapsed patients
Work with patients to encourage participation
Obtain results and align information with the NCSR
Source faecal occult blood test kits as required to provide to patients
Provide appropriate patient follow-up as required
Commit to providing SEMPHN with relevant project data
Commit to continuing this activity post-funding.

How to express your interest

All expressions of interest (EOI) must be submitted through the Folio online application form .

Applicants are required to provide POLAR-generated evidence of the number of patients aged 50 – 74 years with their EOI submission. This data must be de-identified, with further instructions and general practice eligibility provided via Folio.

Please submit any questions to commissioning@semphn.org.au . Questions are only accepted via this email address and the answers will be posted on FOLIO for all applicants to see.

Key dates

4 December 2023: Expressions of interest open
8 December 2023: Closing date for questions (3pm AEST)
15 December 2023: Expressions of interest close (3pm AEST)
Mid-late January 2024: Outcome notified
1 February 2024: Program commences
30 June 2024: Program concludes
31 August 2024: Contract schedule end

How Allied Health and Dementia Rehabilitation can help

Thu, 30 Nov 2023 22:00:00 GMT

Allied health professionals can help people living with dementia to maximise mobility, meaningful activities and relationships. This is called dementia rehabilitation.

Learn more about how dementia rehabilitation helped Anna stay socially, mentally and physically active.

Anna’s story

Anna’s GP asked Anna what matters to her. Anna identified cooking and maintaining her veggie garden as things she loved and wanted to continue to do. Her GP rang My Aged Care to make a referral to allied health.

An occupational therapist with experience in dementia came to Anna’s home to help her with strategies and environmental modifications to optimise cooking and maintaining her veggie patch.
After gaining confidence, Anna mentioned she would like to get back to playing bowls. A speech pathologist helped Anna work on strategies to remember people’s names. With Anna’s permission, the speech pathologist provided members of the bowls club with communication training.
The community physiotherapist helped Anna with exercises for her knee arthritis and provided her with a bowls specific stick to take the load off her knee when playing.
Lawn mowing and shopping assistance through My Aged Care made it easier for Anna to continue gardening and cooking.

Anna’s mood and frustration improved as her physical and social activity increased.

Dementia rehabilitation program

Delivered by Encara, the in-home Dementia Rehabilitation Program aims to improve access to allied health-led rehabilitation activities to support independence and wellbeing. Led by a team of Allied Health Professionals, the program combines therapeutic interventions, education, and personalised care, integrating allied health with aromatherapy, art therapy and music therapy.

How to make a referral

People aged 65+ years old living with dementia in the Mornington Peninsula Shire, City of Casey, Frankston, City of Greater Dandenong and Kingston are eligible for the Dementia Rehabilitation Program.

To find out more, or make a referral, visit Encara's website .

If you have an enquiry about the program please email dementia@encara.com.au .

Share your thoughts, make a difference

Tue, 28 Nov 2023 23:04:08 GMT

Looking for a way to support local people in need this summer?

This festive season, SEMPHN will be making a donation to WAYSS , a service dedicated to assisting people who are homeless, at risk of homelessness or experiencing family violence. We’ve organized a free way for you to contribute! For every response to our survey , SEMPHN will donate $2 to WAYSS.

This donation will support WAYSS to provide access to safe, secure and affordable housing for people at risk of homelessness or experiencing family violence in Greater Dandenong, Casey, Cardinia, Frankston and the Mornington Peninsula.

The festive season is usually celebrated as a time to spend with loved ones, yet for many it is a time of scarcity or fear. Health professionals may come across even more patients who are homeless/at risk of homelessness or experiencing family violence. So, let’s make a difference this season, together.

Need another reason to take part? SEMPHN wants to hear from you in this survey as a valued stakeholder and critical part of primary health in south east Melbourne. So, share your thoughts, make a difference.

To start the survey, please click on the link below.

The survey closes 15 December 2023.

For more information about homelessness - and/or family violence support services, visit the WAYSS website . (Please note: WAYSS is not a SEMPHN-funded service.)

COVID Vaccine Update for RACHs

Wed, 22 Nov 2023 01:30:29 GMT

Residential aged care homes are responsible for ensuring residents have access to the recommended COVID-19 vaccine dose as soon as they are eligible, outlined below.

If it has been six months since receiving a COVID-19 vaccine or confirmed COVID-19 infection, an additional dose:

is recommended for people aged 75 or older
should be considered for people aged 65 to 74 years and people aged 18 to 64 years with severe immunocompromise following discussion with their healthcare provider.

Aged care residents who have not yet received any booster dose this year are advised to do so. The Department strongly recommends that individual residents get their vaccines as soon as they become eligible, and not waiting for a group of residents to be vaccinated together.

Dose history is no longer relevant for the RACH vaccine program (EG 30 residents have had 4 doses, 20 have had 5 doses etc), but rather, how long the gap between a resident’s last dose to now has been. A resident is expected to be offered a booster dose as they become eligible 6 months after their last dose, or after 6 months since their last COVID infection.

Older age continues to be the biggest risk factor for severe COVID-19 disease. COVID-19 vaccination reduces the risk of serious illness and death.

Vaccines are still principally administered in residential aged care homes by primary care providers such as general practitioners and pharmacists. RACHs are strongly encouraged to contact the SEMPHN Aged Care team at agedcare@semphn.org.au or call 1300 331 981 for more information or for assistance with engaging with a primary care vaccine provider.

For more COVID-19 resources, please visit our COVID-19 page or visit the Department of Health .

Our 2023 Annual Report is now live!

Mon, 20 Nov 2023 08:00:37 GMT

We’re pleased to announce our latest Annual Report is now available to read online.

SEMPHN’s vision is to create opportunities for people in south east Melbourne to live their healthiest lives. Our latest Annual Report (2022-23) showcases how health services and community programs have created positive health outcomes for individuals and communities in our catchment.

This year we have featured stories and initiatives centring on lived-experience, collaboration and innovation. We also provide insights into the development of our new ‘Path to Impact’ Strategy which will shape the design and delivery of future services and initiatives.

Our significant impact over the past 12 months and SEMPHN’s work across the sector would not be possible without the involvement of general practices, local hospital networks, allied health services and community members with lived experience contributing to service design and delivery.

Thank you to all our partners, providers and colleagues for working with us. We look forward to continuing to collaborate throughout this year and into the future.

We encourage you to share this report with your colleagues.

Your opportunity to provide feedback – SEMPHN Stakeholder Survey 2023

Thu, 09 Nov 2023 05:20:05 GMT

As a valued stakeholder, SEMPHN would like to ask you a few questions on what we’re doing well and where we can do better, to ensure we can achieve our vision of creating opportunities for people in south east Melbourne to live their healthiest lives.

We do value your time, and this survey will take less than 10 minutes to complete.

For every survey response SEMPHN receives, SEMPHN will donate $2 on your behalf to a service (not currently funded by SEMPHN) dedicated to assisting First Nations Peoples or people who are homeless/at risk of homelessness.

The survey closes Friday, 15 December 2023.

Talking all things Breast Health with Dandenong & District Aborigines Co-Operative Limited (DDACL)

Thu, 02 Nov 2023 22:00:00 GMT

In recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, DDACL recently hosted a First Nations cancer screening awareness event at Nairm Marr Djambana Gathering Place to discuss breast health, early detection and prevention.

SEMPHN’s 2022-2025 Annual Needs Assessment identified low numbers of cancer screening participation among local First Nations peoples.

As part of the First Nations Cancer Screening Program , DDACL strives to increase cancer screening among First Nations peoples in the local government areas (LGA) of Greater Dandenong, Mornington Peninsula, Casey, Cardinia, and Frankston by:

Increasing awareness and understanding among community members
Promoting the program among general practices as a referral pathway
Providing practical support for community members to attend cancer screening appointments

The event provided valuable information tailored to First Nations women, including presentations from Breast Screen Victoria , Bunurong Health Service and two women from the Community sharing their own personal experiences.

Presenters also showcased The Beautiful Shawl Project , a collaboration between Breast Screen Victoria, the Victoria Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation (VACCHO) plus eight Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations (ACCOs) across the state.

Working with local community artists to produce customised screening shawls, the project partners provided First Nations woman with a culturally appropriate, familiar and beautiful garment to wear during screening, and to keep afterwards.

Thank you to everyone involved in hosting such an insightful event and to the wonderful speakers for sharing your powerful and inspiring stories.

Now available! Improved access to palliative care medicines for your patients

Wed, 01 Nov 2023 01:00:00 GMT

Prescribers in the South Eastern Melbourne Primary Health region now have access to a localised palliative care Core Medicines List (CML).

Building on previous work by North Western Melbourne PHN, the Palliative Care Access to Core Medicines (PCAM) project provides a localised palliative Core Medicine List (CML) for end-of-life care. Informed by evidence-based practices, Australian state CMLs and local palliative care providers' input, the CML aims to enhance access to palliative care medicines when needed most.

Background

Th e South Eastern Melbourne, Eastern Melbourne, and North Western Melbourne Primary Health Networks have partnered with the Pharmaceutical Society of Australia (PSA) to improve end-of-life care by removing access barriers to vital medicines. The CML streamlines the prescription, supply, and usage of medicines for end-of-life symptoms, enabling pharmacists and prescribers to anticipate availability and reduce the need for multiple pharmacy visits.

How to use the CML

With almost 50 pharmacies in the south east region agreeing to stock the CML, we anticipate this resource will significantly improve accessibility to essential medicines. Please explore SEMPHN’s newly dedicated PCAM webpage for the complete CML and map, which will help you identify the location of participating local community pharmacies.

We have also created a downloadable PDF list of all participating pharmacies which can be printed and distributed to your patients, carers and family members.

Webinar

The dedicated webpage offers a recorded webinar on anticipatory medicines and medication management for end-of-life care. This is available for general practitioners (with RACGP CPD points), community pharmacists, and other health professionals.

Help improve access to end-of-life medicines when most needed by visiting the SEMPHN PCAM page .

GP Respiratory Clinics close their doors: Where can patients receive respiratory symptom care?

Fri, 20 Oct 2023 04:21:24 GMT

Victorian Government funded General Practice Respiratory Clinics (GPRC) will close on 31 October 2023, including five GPRCs in south east Melbourne.

We thank all GPRC owners, operators and staff for their dedication to protect the health of Victorians through delivering life-saving services. We also thank the many thousands of other primary care workers who have also provided testing and care for patients throughout the pandemic.

Why are GPRCs closing?

GPRCs were conceived and funded as a temporary response in the early phase of the COVID-19 pandemic. Demand for GPRC services has decreased significantly in recent months as a result of a highly vaccinated population and new services taking the pressure off general practices and hospital emergency departments.

Where can patients with respiratory symptoms seek care?

If patients test positive for COVID-19, it is likely their symptoms will be mild and they can recover safely at home. Visit the healthdirect website for information on managing COVID-19 at home.

Patients with mild to moderate symptoms (including confirmed COVID-19) can seek care from their usual GP, or another GP if their usual one isn’t available. Most general practices provide care for patients with respiratory symptoms, both by telehealth and face-to-face. Telehealth appointments are suitable for most low risk patients.

Patients can also contact NURSE-ON-CALL on 1300 60 60 24 for free health advice, 24 hours a day.

Patients with urgent but non-life-threatening symptoms can contact the Victorian Virtual Emergency Department or see a GP at a Priority Primary Care Centre (PPCC).

Please note, that PPCCs do not provide routine PCR testing. They provide GP-led care for people with urgent but non-life-threatening conditions. In an emergency, patients are advised to visit their local hospital emergency department or call 000.

COVID-19 testing options

Rapid antigen tests (RATs) are the easiest way to test for COVID-19. Visit the Victorian Government website for information on when to use a RAT, where to get them, and what to do if COVID-19 positive. If patients test positive for COVID-19, it is still recommended to wear a mask and isolate for 5 days or until a negative RAT result has been achieved.

If patients are at risk of severe COVID-19 illness, their RAT result is negative or inconclusive, or they require a PCR test, a visit to a GP is recommended. A GP can decide if a PCR test is needed and may provide a referral to a pathology collection centre.

Those unable to get a GP appointment can:

contact the Victorian Virtual Emergency Department
call the National Coronavirus Hotline on 1800 020 080
call NURSE-ON-CALL on 1300 606 024.
In an emergency call 000.

Please visit our dedicated COVID-19 page for more information and resources for health professionals.

Continuing the First Nations conversation

Sun, 15 Oct 2023 22:22:25 GMT

On Saturday 14 October, Australia voted to change the constitution to recognise 60,000+ years of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander custodianship and give First Nations people the opportunity to advise the government on the policies that affect them.

Every referendum over the past 120 years has said something about who we are as a maturing nation. Whatever our individual views on this outcome, we will continue to learn.

While the result was unsuccessful, the conversation does not end here. The opportunity to listen and learn from First Nations peoples continues to be one of our greatest privileges and opportunities as a nation.

At South Eastern Melbourne Primary Health Network (SEMPHN), we know that listening and walking alongside First Nations people leads to a stronger culture and better wellbeing, health, social, education and economic outcomes.

We will continue to listen with humility and respect to the voices of First Nations peoples as we work together with Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations and all primary health providers to help close the gap in health, education and social outcomes. We honour the resilience of First Nations peoples over the years since colonisation and are we are committed to continuing the transformative journey that First Nations people invited us on when they issued the Uluru Statement from the Heart .

The conversations around the referendum have, in many cases, been distressing for First Nations peoples and their allies in our communities. We encourage anyone affected by these conversations – and the ones that will doubtless continue in coming weeks – to seek any support needed.

13YARN is for mob, by mob, and is available 24/7 by calling 13 92 76. Beyond Blue also provides 24/7 counselling by calling 1300 22 4636 or accessing the online counselling webchat service.

Please be kind to yourself, offer an outstretched hand and a listening ear to those around you.

Is your practice ready for patient registration?

Fri, 13 Oct 2023 00:04:02 GMT

From 1 October 2023, two important updates occurred: the MyMedicare program code became available in the Organisation Register and patient registration opened.

For practices interested in participating in the MyMedicare initiative, it is important they stay up to date with the latest MyMedicare news and processes, to ensure they are ready to accept patient registrations.

Before you can access the MyMedicare program code, please ensure your practice is correctly registered with the Organisation Register .

Once your practice is registered with the Organisation Register, you can then link providers at your practice to your organisation site. Refer to this checklist to assist with your registration.

How to add the MyMedicare program code in the Organisation Register

From 1 October 2023, practices will have access to the MyMedicare program code in the Organisation Register. This step is critical in ensuring you are officially registered with MyMedicare and can begin registering patients.

Return to the Organisation Register and select the relevant Associated Site record
Select MyMedicare from the New Program drop-down box in the Program Registration tab and select Add Program, then Submit & Save (you may need to log out of PRODA and log back in to view the MyMedicare tile under My Programs).

Start registering your patients

Once the above steps are complete, you can begin registering and managing patient registration for your practice using HPOS.

Click on the My Programs tile
Select the MyMedicare tile, which will appear under My Programs

After adding the MyMedicare program for the Organisation Site, a new attribute will become available in the Organisation in PRODA. You can delegate this attribute to additional members to assist with the management of patient registration.

Please refer to the Services Australia elearning module for a step-by-step guide on MyMedicare managing patient registrations.

MyMedicare patient promotion

The Department of Health and Aged Care has released a  GP Communication toolkit to help you engage with your patients about MyMedicare and answer questions they may have.

The toolkit contains downloadable patient-focused promotional material, including:

FAQs
Posters
Brochures
Facts sheets
Newsletter article
Suggested social media posts.

For further information and support resources, please visit the dedicated SEMPHN MyMedicare webpage.

Please contact your Provider Support Officer to discuss MyMedicare further or email digitalhealth@semphn.org.au for technical registration support.

Register your practice to join the PaRIS Health Survey

Thu, 28 Sep 2023 01:33:48 GMT

General practices are invited to participate in the national rollout of the Patient-Reported Indicator Survey (PaRIS).

For the first time, patients across the world with a chronic health issue are being asked to share their experiences so healthcare providers can better understand their needs.

The OECD-led PaRIS Health Survey will strengthen the measurement of outcomes and experiences of primary care services for people living with chronic conditions.

Nearly half of all Australians (46.6%) have one or more chronic conditions, and almost one in five (18.6%) have two or more chronic conditions.

In Australia, the Australian Commission for Safety and Quality in Health Care is working with ORIMA Research to implement the PaRIS Survey, on behalf of the Department of Health and Aged Care.

Why participate in the PaRIS Survey?

By taking part in the PaRIS Health Survey, GP practices will better understand their patient experiences and identify opportunities to improve the care they provide. Survey participation can also count towards CPD requirements.

The PaRIS Survey aims to fill a critical gap in primary health care by gaining insights on access to health care and waiting times, quality of life, pain, physical functioning and psychological wellbeing.

Each participating practice will gain access to a dashboard showing their results, as well as the de-identified results of other participating practices according to size, location and FTE. This national data will give practices a rich data set to inform their quality improvement activities.

Who can participate?

All GP practices and Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations in Australia that are accredited and use electronic patient records are eligible to register for participation . The survey closes on 31 October 2023.

For more information, visit: safetyandquality.gov.au/paris-survey

Acting Health Minister visits Dandenong PPCC

Mon, 18 Sep 2023 05:29:56 GMT

Last week, the Honourable Gabrielle William MP visited our Dandenong Priority Primary Care Centre (PPCC) to meet the wonderful staff and see the service in action.

Dandenong PPCC has treated more than 9000 patients since opening its doors. The centre is supported by highly skilled independent doctors and nurses, utilising excellent treatment and procedure room facilities.

What is a PPCC?

PPCCs provide care for people with conditions that require urgent attention but not an emergency response and can include:

Infection – mild to moderate fever, pain or burning when urinating, skin infections
Injury/Trauma – sprains, suspected minor fractures, foreign object, burns or bites, cuts or lacerations
Respiratory – mild/moderate asthma attack, trouble breathing but still able to talk in sentences
Gut – nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain (under 50 years but not related to an injury)
Ear, nose and throat – earache, eye irritations, sinus pain, ongoing headache
Fainting or fitting – typical seizure experienced before, short fitting episodes then recovery to normal (not following head injury), fainting (brief)
Skin conditions/allergy – rash, infected pimple or cyst, lumps and bumps
Infants/Pregnancy – paediatrics, light bleeding in the first trimester, excessive vomiting.

PPCCs are here to help when patients require urgent medical need that is not life-threatening. They were created to take some of the pressure off emergency departments so they can focus on the most serious cases. While PPCCs are happy to help, we kindly ask that you only send patients with urgent needs, and not for routine medical care. Our PPCCs are not designed to replace regular doctor visits, but rather to supplement care when most needed.

To support appropriate referrals, please review the inclusion and exclusion criteria of conditions. Additionally, we have developed flyers and posters that can be kept on reception desks and in GP offices should a patient require urgent non-life threatening care.

If you have any questions or would like to know more, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our team at PPCC@semphn.org.au .

5 things you should know about dementia

Mon, 11 Sep 2023 02:22:50 GMT

This week (18 – 24 September) is Dementia Action Week.
Approximately 11,000 people in south east Melbourne live with Dementia. To help our community better understand Dementia and support those living with it, we’ve put together five things you need to know, as well as useful resources and services.

1. You can still live well with dementia

You can still lead an active, fulfilling and healthy lifestyle with dementia. Your ability to perform daily routines and activities might change over time, but it does not mean you need to stop doing the things you enjoy. You may just have to do them differently. It is important to stay engaged and look after your health. Small changes to your lifestyle can lead to better health and wellbeing.

2. Keeping active is important

Staying active and social can help your mobility and memory. It can also improve your self-esteem, sleep and wellbeing.
Thirty minutes of physical activity each day can improve the way you think and feel. If this seems difficult, start with less activity and increase it over time.

You could try:

walking
dancing
Tai Chi
gardening
lawn bowls
exercise classes, including low-intensity and water exercises.

Be supported to keep active and receive a personalised plan with the 12 Week Dementia Rehabilitation Program

3. Challenging your mind is beneficial

Exercising your mind daily can keep your brain stimulated and help slow the progression of dementia into the later stages. Rather than giving up activities that are becoming difficult, it may be possible to modify the activity or break it down into manageable parts. Avoid choosing activities that are beyond capabilities as this may result in frustration and a sense of failure.

You could try:

reading
singing
playing musical instruments
storytelling
crossword puzzles
attending community events

Attend a dementia friendly event this week:

18-24 September: Free coffee at Bunjil Place Café in Narre Warren
20 September: Morning activities and live music Bunjil Place Function Centre in Narre Warren

For more ideas on mental exercises download Dementia Australia’s information sheet

4. Carers need support too

If someone close to you is living with dementia, do not underestimate the impact this can have on you. Whether you are the partner, child, relative or friend, your relationship will change. It is important to look after your health and wellbeing and turn to others for support when you need it. This will ensure you provide the best care for the person with dementia, for as long as you are able.

Download Dementia Australia’s Support guide for Carers

5. There are local support programs in south east Melbourne

Whether you’re living with dementia, a carer or a health professional – knowing the available support programs and services in south east Melbourne can help people find the care they need earlier.

SEMPHN Dementia Referral Pathway helps health professionals navigate the services available in south eastern Melbourne.
Demystifying Dementia GP Training workshop in collaboration with Dementia Training Australia (21 October).
Dementia Rehabilitation Program is a free 12-week program providing holistic in-home support for people living with Dementia.
carefinder provides specialist assistance to seniors who need intensive support to understand and access aged care services who could otherwise fall through the cracks.
Dementia Pathways provides resources for people with a recent diagnosis of dementia, resources for their caregivers and family, and a dedicated page for health professionals.

MyMedicare - what we know so far

Mon, 04 Sep 2023 04:46:40 GMT

MyMedicare is Australia’s new voluntary patient registration model. It will enable a blended funding model that sits alongside fee-for-service while strengthening the relationship between patients, their general practice, general practitioner (GP) and primary care teams.

Recently, there has been a lot of discussion regarding the benefits of MyMedicare, its impact on general practice, and how it will be put into action. To give an overall idea of the current details accessible, here is a brief summary of the information that has been made available by the Department of Health and Aged Care so far:

What are the benefits?

Registered practices will have access to MBS-funded longer telephone consultations (levels C and D) to registered patients.
Triple bulk-billing incentive for longer MBS telehealth consultations (levels C, D and E) for registered patients under 16, pensioners and Commonwealth concession card holders.

The following new blended funding payments will be available to registered practices and providers: 

the General Practice in Aged Care Incentive from 1 August 2024, which will support regular health assessments, care plans and regular GP visits for people in residential aged care homes.
new blended funding payments to support better care in the community for people with complex, chronic disease who frequently attend hospitals. These arrangements will roll out progressively across Australia over three years from FY2024–25.
Chronic Disease Management items linked to a patient’s registration in MyMedicare from November 2024, to support continuity of care for people with chronic and complex conditions. Patients who are not registered in MyMedicare will still be able to receive Chronic Disease Management items from their usual GP.

Other important notes:

Work is underway to integrate registration information with practice software to reduce administrative burden and allow GPs to access their registered patient lists directly.
More information on patient registration is expected to be released by the Department of Health and Aged Care this month (September 2023)

Significant dates coming up:

From 1 October 2023 , patient registration will be available to all Australians with a Medicare Card or Department of Veteran’s Affairs (DVA) Veteran Card.
From 1 November 2023 , MBS level C and D telephone telehealth items will be available for registered patients. The triple bulk billing incentive for MBS level C, D, and E telehealth items will be available for eligible patients only with their registered practices.
From February 2024 , the Department of Health will roll out a national advertising campaign to increase patient registration.

SEMPHN strives to provide you with current updates on MyMedicare. Check out our dedicated page and sign up for Network News to stay informed.

Important Information for COVID Vaccinators

Fri, 18 Aug 2023 03:28:48 GMT

Changes to requirements for nurses administering COVID vaccinations commencing Monday 21 August 2023.

Two Public Health Emergency Orders (PHEOs #8 and #10) authorising COVID-19 vaccination activity for workforces and entities in Victoria are currently in force and expire on 20 August 2023 .

During the Victorian COVID-19 pandemic, declaration Public Health Emergency Order #8 (PHEO #8) was enacted to permit emergency workforces, including registered nurses (who are not nurse immunisers), enrolled nurses and registered pharmacists to administer COVID-19 vaccines without written order of a medical practitioner. PHEO #8 also applies to Aboriginal health practitioners (under administration order from a registered medical practitioner or nurse practitioner).

PHEO #8 continues in force until it expires on Sunday 20 August 2023.

Following the expiry of PHEO #8 on Sunday, nursing staff previously operating under PHEO #8 must only administer the COVID-19 vaccine in accordance with the Drugs, Poisons and Controlled Substances Act 1981 and Drugs, Poisons and Controlled Substances Regulations 2017 as it applies to their profession and training. This means that the administration of the COVID-19 vaccine will be consistent with the administration of other vaccines. For example, endorsed enrolled nurses and registered nurses (who are not nurse immunisers) may only administer vaccines under the written order of a medical practitioner.

Nurse immuniser applies to any registered nurse who has completed a Victorian approved immuniser program of study. Nurse immunisers are authorised to possess and administer COVID vaccines in accordance with the conditions outlined in a Secretary Approval until 19 October 2023 (inclusive), unless revoked earlier. Similarly, pharmacist immunisers have approval to administer COVID-19 vaccines until 19 October 2023.

Consultation on the future of PHEO #10 will be forthcoming.

Workforce training requirements

Emergency authorised workforces are no longer required to undertake the Victorian MVEC COVID-19 vaccination training modules as part of their qualification to administer COVID-19 vaccines.

The MVEC modules, originally introduced to support the state-run vaccination hubs, supplemented the Commonwealth’s COVID-19 vaccination training program and included:

Victorian COVID-19 eLearning Competency Training Package
Victorian COVID-19 eLearning competency – MVEC Immunising children and infants.

Authorised workforces must continue to complete the Commonwealth training program before undertaking vaccination activity along with any other requirements as set out in the Victorian COVID-19 Vaccination Guidelines .

More information:

Any queries should be directed to COVID19VPO@health.vic.gov.au .

Image shows: Arm receiving vaccination.
Credit: Canva.

Care Finder Program Case Study: Helping Francis navigate through aged care

Thu, 10 Aug 2023 01:29:06 GMT

Discover how Care Finder Programs help seniors who can't access aged care services through Francis' story.

Following a presentation to an Aged Care Assessment Team, COTA Victoria received a referral from an assessment clinician for Care Finder support to be provided. Although information provided about Francis’s eligibility was limited, the ACAS assessment clinician felt he would benefit from support to navigate the aged care service system and engage services.

COTA Victoria called Francis to advise of their service and to try and determine eligibility. Francis advised that his daughter, although living locally, has limited contact with him and he didn’t feel comfortable asking her for assistance. It was at his daughter’s recommendation that he sell his house and move into current flat which he is not happy about.

In liaising with My Aged Care, it was discovered that Francis has additional approvals which he was not accessing, including a pending Home Care Package Level 3 (HCP3) which was to be assigned in 3-6 months, and a continence assessment.

How Care Finder helped Francis:

Assistance with My Aged Care paperwork to determine service eligibility
Income assessment to provide financial assistance and support
Continence nurse
Social engagement opportunities
Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP) for Domestic Assistance and Shopping.

The Care Finder provided Francis with support to understand the aged care system, identify his current position within it, and make informed decisions about accessing eligible supports and services.

Want to know more?

Care finder services are provided at no cost as they are fully funded through Primary Health Networks. There are currently 11 organisations providing face-to-face support to the most vulnerable and at-risk older people of our community.

Review our Care Finder Services page for a complete list of providers and other important information and resources.

Article source: COTA Victoria, Case Study: Helping Francis* navigate through aged care , 20 July 2023

Image shows: Two young individuals happily assisting an elderly person.
Credit: Canva.

Have you heard about our COVID-19 pop-up clinics?

Fri, 04 Aug 2023 01:07:52 GMT

Pop-up clinics for COVID-19 in south east Melbourne are making it easier for people to get vaccinated.

The pop-up COVID-19 vaccination clinics help to boost vaccination rates and provide more protection against the virus. The clinics offer convenient access to vaccines and also give people the chance to ask questions and feel at ease before getting vaccinated.

The following are some highlights from the ongoing program:

Shawlands Caravan Park (25 May 2023)

EACH’s Community Connectors program delivered a pop-up event for residents at Shawlands Caravan Park, including legal services, outreach, mental health services, BBQ and second-hand clothes. The Cove Family Medical Centre provided COVID-19 vaccinations.

Frankston Ambassador (29 May 2023)

Peninsula Health’s Community Connectors program held a pop-up event at Frankston Ambassador. The event included a coffee van, pizza, mental health services, legal services, and outreach workers. Ripponlea Medical provided COVID-19 vaccinations.

Merinda Park Learning and Community Centre (21 June 2023)

SEMPHN was invited to provide COVID-19 vaccinations for local members of the community. Many of the community centres are from Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) backgrounds. The centre was holding its adult English classes and computer skills on the day of the pop-up clinic. Ripponlea Medical provided COVID-19 vaccinations.

Refugee Week (23 June 2023)

The City of Greater Dandenong held a community event to celebrate Refugee Week. The event included refugee health services, legal services, and a range of other community refugee organisations. Staff from the City of Greater Dandenong were distributing free masks, sanitiser and RATs in front of the vaccination room and promoting opportunistic vaccinations. Ripponlea Medical provided COVID-19 vaccinations.

Greater Dandenong Immunisation Session (27 June & 25 July 2023)

The immunisation team from the City of Greater Dandenong invited SEMPHN to provide COVID-19 vaccinations alongside their catch-up refugee and childhood immunisations. The Cove Family Medical Centre provided COVID-19 vaccinations.

Tooradin Caravan Park (25 July 2023)

EACH’s Community Connectors program delivered a pop-up event for residents at Tooradin Caravan Park, including legal services, outreach, mental health services, BBQ and second-hand clothes. The Cove Family Medical Centre provided COVID-19 vaccinations.

Snowfest (30 July)

The Emergency Management team from the City of Greater Dandenong invited SEMPHN to provide COVID-19 vaccinations at the Snowfest event in Springvale. The Cove Family Medical Centre provided COVID vaccinations.

We would like to express our gratitude to our outstanding providers for delivering this crucial service to vulnerable communities. Your dedication and contributions to community healthcare are remarkable.

For more information regarding the Vulnerable Peoples Vaccination Program (including pop-up clinics, homebound vaccinations or GP Vaccination Hubs) please visit the COVID-19 page or email COVIDHomebound@semphn.org.au.

General Practice Vaccination Hubs Supporting Vulnerable People Access COVID-19 Vaccination

Thu, 27 Jul 2023 06:19:01 GMT

General Practice (GP) Vaccination Hubs are providing assistance to vulnerable individuals to get easier access to Covid-19 Vaccinations in their local areas.

These Hubs have a goal to expand accessibility to COVID-19 vaccines throughout the SEMPHN region, particularly for vulnerable groups who may encounter challenges in reaching vaccination sites. The GP Vaccination Hubs undertake a range of activities to improve access which can include:

Pop-up clinics
Promotion and Education sessions to local groups
Accepting referrals from partner organisations for people who may require additional support to receive a COVID vaccine
Emphasis on after-hours and weekend vaccination sessions
Low Sensory Vaccination Clinics and spaces to support people with sensory processing issues.

Do you know someone who requires additional support receiving their COVID vaccine? Connect with the GP Vaccination hub in your area.

Image shows: An elderly woman receiving a vaccination.
Credit: Canva.

Helping Melbourne’s health care sector treat hepatitis

Sun, 23 Jul 2023 02:30:00 GMT

Since it started in 2016, the Victorian HIV and Hepatitis Integrated Training And Learning (VHHITAL) program has worked with almost 1000 health care providers to improve detection, diagnosis and treatment of hepatitis B and C.

VHHITAL is a training, research and accreditation consortium comprising Victorian-Tasmanian Alliance Primary Health Network (which SEMPHN is a part of), North West Melbourne PHN (NWMPHN), the Australasian Society for HIV, Viral Hepatitis and Sexual Health Medicine (ASHM), Alfred Health and the Doherty Institute.

Its activities include education sessions for general practice and allied health, insights about working with members of at-risk communities, and certification for practitioners who prescribe highly specialised drugs administered under Section 100 (s100) of the National Health Act 1953.

By the end of the 2022-23 financial year the consortium had delivered 70 hepatitis-related training and education sessions, attended by 951 clinicians – many of whom have taken multiple courses.

“About 240,000 Australians live with hepatitis B – often unknowingly,” said Christopher Carter, NWMPHN’s Chief Executive.

“And hepatitis C affects more than 70,000 Victorians, putting themselves at risk of many health impacts, including cirrhosis, liver cancer and death. Properly detected and treated, these diseases can be cured or managed – and the VHHITAL consortium is playing a critical role in improving the confidence of clinicians to do so.”

VHHITAL's consortium partner Melbourne Sexual Health Centre plays a key role in establishing sexual health clinics across the metropolitan area. The most recent, at Modern Medical in Caroline Springs, opened in June.

The consortium is continuing with its commitment to training. The ASHM, for instance, is currently recruiting general practices into a project called Beyond the C , which seeks to eliminate hepatitis C by 2030.

Next month consortium members will be presenting events looking at specialist prescribing for hepatitis B (August 1-15), a full day webinar on hepatitis B aimed at a wide range of health care workers (August 3), and a 2-day course on the same disease for nurses and midwives (August 30-31).

These and other events concerning hepatitis and sexually transmitted infections can be found on this education and events calendar.

“Every year around the world more than one million people die from hepatitis, and millions more are deeply impacted,” said Chris Carter.

“July 28, as World Hepatitis Day, is a really good reminder for people in health care to reflect on their knowledge in this field – and encourage everyone to get tested regularly.”

For more information on VHHITAL, go here, or email vhhital@nwmphn.org.au .

Image shows: A doctor discussing the potential impact of hepatitis with a patient.
Credit: Shutterstock.

How care coordination benefited Jake's diabetes management

Mon, 10 Jul 2023 03:07:36 GMT

New Care Coordination Support Service funded by the SEMPHN helped Jake find a local GP and manage his diabetes in a new state.

Moving interstate to start a new job is a big thing to do. For Jake, it meant leaving behind friends and family and starting again in Melbourne’s south east. At first, he focused on work and joining a local soccer club.

With the move and the new job, Jake hadn’t found himself a new doctor yet.

Jake lives with diabetes and bipolar disorder. He had a few nights where he didn’t quite feel right and ended up at the local hospital. Jake was referred to Silverchain’s new free care coordination support service which helps people living in the Frankston and Greater Dandenong areas to take a proactive approach to managing their health including finding a local GP.

“Silverchain taught me that there is a lot I can do to take better care of myself. They found services where I could get appointments after work. I now have a mental health plan in place and have contacted my local diabetes service. I now know where to get help if I need it,” Jake said.

The new Care Coordination Support Service funded by the South Eastern Melbourne PHN helps to support eligible people who need a little extra help with taking care of themselves. By working closely with local GPs and pharmacies, we are helping to improve health outcomes for vulnerable people, reduce pressure on local hospitals, and empower people to take control of their health.

To find out more about our South Eastern Melbourne Care Coordination Support Service, visit www.silverchain.org.au/refer-to-us/victoria .

To make a referral please contact 1300 300 122 OR email screferrals@silverchain.org.au

Image supplied by Silverchain Group.

Breakthrough Postvention kit launched

Wed, 05 Jul 2023 02:51:04 GMT

Last week, SEMPHN was excited to officially launch ‘Growing around grief’, a comprehensive postvention resource tailored to support south east Melbourne communities affected by suicide and sudden loss.

Developed from research gathered during the Victorian funded Suicide Prevention Place-Based trials, the kit will minimise the long-term impacts of trauma for anyone dealing with grief and loss from suicide or sudden death.

Victoria-wide, there has been a 10.8% increase in suicides from 2021 to 2023 for the January-to-May period with south eastern Melbourne recording the second highest number of deaths by suicide or self-inflicted injuries in Australia between 2016 and 2020. Alarmingly, this upward trend in total deaths by suicide is likely to continue, according to the most recent year-to-date report from the Coroners Court of Victoria (January-to-May).

Loss by suicide can have serious and lasting effects on those left behind and their needs are complex, requiring a collaborative and multi-faceted support response that is unique for each individual.

With over 50 industry professionals in attendance, our thanks go to Tim Richardson MP, Parliamentary Secretary for Mental Health and Suicide Prevention and Louise Flynn from Jesuit Social Services; for their heartfelt addresses on the value of this critical resource. Special thanks also to Su-Rose McIntyre, who bravely shared her lived experience and provided insight into the significance of this toolkit to support those dealing with the aftermath of sudden loss.

The ‘Growing around grief’ postvention toolkit is now available for download from the SEMPHN website and comprises a main booklet, plus four supplementary booklets. Each book can be used independently, to address the needs of specific groups. Please share this kit with your networks, friends and family.

For further information on this resource, please reach out to Stana Cubra stana.cubra@semphn.org.au .

Share your experience of a heart condition to inform a new Victorian pilot project

Mon, 03 Jul 2023 02:51:46 GMT

Do you live or work in south east Melbourne?

Do you have personal experience navigating the public health system (community-based and/or hospital) with a heart condition?

You could be a Health Consumer Advisor for a Victorian pilot project!

The Victorian Agency for Health Information (VAHI; as a division of the Victorian Department of Health) and South Eastern Melbourne Primary Health Network (SEMPHN) are collaborating on a data linkage pilot project, focused on cardiovascular disease (CVD) outcomes. CVD is a major cause of illness and death in Australia and treating people with CVD in hospital is more costly than treating them in the community. Integrated care across the primary care and hospital sectors is crucial to ensure timely prevention of CVD hospitalisations. Comprehensive, joined-up primary care and hospital data are important in understanding patient pathways through the health system. There is currently an absence of this data in Victoria!

We’re seeking a Health Consumer Advisor to join the project’s Steering Committee.

What will I do as a Health Consumer Advisor on the Steering Committee?

As a Health Consumer Advisor, we value your personal experience with a heart condition and will ask you to:

Share your thoughts on how data will benefit consumers
Provide consumer-focused advice for system improvement
Share your personal experiences with the health system
Contribute insights to shape project goals and improvement strategies.

All members will be expected to contribute positively and engage effectively with stakeholders, as guided by the Chair.

Who is eligible?

To be eligible for the Health Consumer Advisor role you need to:

Be aged 18+ years old
Live in south east Melbourne
Have had, or still have, a heart condition
Have experience with the community system (ie; primary health care) and/or public hospital system

What commitment is involved?

More details about the role requirements are explained below.

Time commitment: We kindly request a minimum commitment of one (1) year. The Steering Committee meets three to four (3-4) times per year, with each meeting lasting no more than two (2) hours. The first meeting is likely to be in August 2023.

Meeting location: Meetings will be via video conference, or in person (Melbourne area) with members' agreement.

Payment: You will receive $237 per meeting attendance.

Support: A designated contact person from VAHI will provide support throughout your engagement.

Express your interest or find out more

Please contact Kym Westbury (Communications Manager, South Eastern Melbourne PHN) during business hours Ph: (03) 8514 4478. Or email kym.westbury@semphn.org.au . Expressions of interest close 28 July or as soon as roles are filled.

New Dementia Rehabilitation Program for Mornington Peninsula and Casey residents

Wed, 28 Jun 2023 05:08:47 GMT

South Eastern Melbourne Primary Health Network (SEMPHN) is pleased to announce a new Dementia Rehabilitation Program for older people (65+) living with dementia in the Mornington Peninsula Shire and City of Casey.

Delivered by Encara , the in-home Dementia Rehabilitation Program aims to improve access to allied health-led rehabilitation activities to support independence and wellbeing. Led by a team of Allied Health Professionals, the program combines therapeutic interventions, education, and personalised care, integrating allied health with aromatherapy, art therapy and music therapy.

What is Dementia Rehabilitation?

The World Health Organisation defines rehabilitation as “a set of interventions designed to optimise functioning and reduce disability in individuals with health conditions (not just after an acute event) in interaction with their environment.”

Rehabilitation helps people to maximise their independence, relationships, and quality of life. It gives people opportunities to retain or regain skills and activities they may have lost or be at risk of losing. Rehabilitation includes supporting people to develop alternate strategies and supporting care partners.

Why is this program needed?

Dementia is a significant and growing health and aged care issue in Australia that has a substantial impact on the health and quality of life of people with the condition, as well as their family and friends. As the condition progresses, the functional ability of an individual with dementia declines, eventually resulting in the reliance on care providers for all aspects of daily living.

In south eastern Melbourne, approximately 11,000 people are living with a diagnosis of dementia, with nearly a third of this group residing in the LGAs of the Mornington Peninsula Shire and the City of Casey.

The Royal Commission into Aged Care and Dementia Guidelines recommend optimising independence and wellbeing through access to allied health professionals. Without treatment, people with dementia may decline faster and enter aged care facilities earlier.

What support will the program provide?

The Dementia Rehabilitation Program runs across 12 weeks and offers personalised care, evidencebased interventions, and a collaborative approach to empower individuals living with dementia. The program includes:

Expert team of caring professionals specialised in dementia care
Personalised interventions to promote independence and quality of life
Home visits by Occupational Therapists to assess and support daily living activities
Podiatry assessment and ongoing therapy for comfortable footwear and overall foot care
Physiotherapy sessions to improve balance, strength, and mobility
Access to additional allied health services, including Dietetics and Speech Therapy
Aromatherapy, Art Therapy and Music Therapy
Ongoing education and support for participants and their families

How to make a referral

The program is now open for referrals, with the first intake commencing 17 July 2023.

People aged 65+ years old living with dementia in the Mornington Peninsula Shire and City of Casey are eligible for the Dementia Rehabilitation Program.

To find out more, or make a referral, visit Encara's website .

If you have an enquiry about the program please email dementia@encara.com.au .

Improving health through social connection

Wed, 21 Jun 2023 03:19:06 GMT

A new program using an innovative social prescribing model to improve wellbeing is already making a difference for older people in Glen Eira, Victoria.

Connect Local is a program led by Bolton Clarke and established by Connecting Communities to Care, a collaboration with Australian Disease Management Association, Alfred Health and South Eastern Melbourne Primary Health Network. Launched in May 2023, Connect Local uses a co-designed community-wide social connection model to improve health and wellbeing for isolated older people in Glen Eira.

The project works with local GPs, clinicians, service providers and hospitals to link older community members with existing social and wellbeing activities.

Local resident John Gibson was among the first to use the project when it kicked off earlier this year.

“My wife died about six months ago, she had been sick for a long time and I had to look after her,” he said. “Once she died I had nothing to do, I was lost -I didn’t have a clue what to do.

“I just happened to see at the bottom of the page in the local paper something about Connect Local, so I thought I’d fill in the form online and see what happened.

“I was surprised to get a phone call the next day. The key benefit has been mixing with other people – before Connect Local was there I was going for days without speaking to anyone, I was really quite lonely.”

Fellow local Loraine Fabb also made the call when she was feeling lonely and bored.

“I always think of myself as being such a strong, independent cuss – I don’t need anybody and I can always do it for myself,” she said. “But with COVID it was very very tough, devastating even – I was alone and I felt it.

“Now I’m doing an Indian cooking class and possibly setting up an acting class. It’s a matter of feeling wanted, feeling that I have a place again, I have something to do, I have a purpose.”

Bolton Clarke Executive General Manager At Home Support Deidre McGill said research shows clearly that loneliness is associated with poorer health outcomes.

“This is why it is a focus of our work to connect people and help them age well,” she said.

“Connect Local is a program to address the gap between the health and social systems, providing practical supports and linkages to local community services and activities.

“Trained community connectors spend time with community members to identify meaningful goals and a personalised plan to address their non-medical needs and improve their overall wellbeing. The connectors then follow up to make sure the supports or activities are making a positive difference.”

Bolton Clarke Research Institute Senior Research Fellow Dr Rajna Ogrin said at any one time up to 150,000 Victorians aged 65+ experienced chronic loneliness , with meaningful social networks an important protective factor.

“An intersectoral approach including individual, group and societal level interventions is needed to support healthy ageing and reduce loneliness,” she said.

“Effective solutions are more likely to be found in social rather than clinical contexts.

“Social connection through social prescribing is one way of addressing these non-medical needs that can affect people’s wellbeing.”

Dr Ogrin said in the short-term researchers expected program participants to experience a measurable reduction in social isolation, loneliness and depressive symptoms and improved social connectedness and mental, physical and social wellbeing.

“Longer term we would expect to see a reduction in avoidable emergency department presentations, unplanned hospital admissions and length of stay,” she said.

“Ultimately we would expect the program to be implemented in other communities throughout Victoria and Australia to provide the supports that older people need and want in an ongoing and sustainable manner.”

Connect Local is funded by The Ian Potter Foundation. SEMPHN representatives were on the Steering Committee and Working Group for the development of the program. For more information visit www.connectlocal.org.au .

A monthly catch up with local men is changing lives

Thu, 15 Jun 2023 04:34:14 GMT

Newly established Men's Tables in Frankston and Port Melbourne are helping men connect and talk about the ups and downs of life.

No one is immune to life stressors. But many men feel pressured to bottle up their struggles or concerns, which can create feelings of loneliness and lead to physical and mental health challenges. In some instances, it can even lead to loss of life.

In 2021 2,358 men died by suicide in Australia. That equates to six men every day as well as six families and six communities impacted by the loss of a loved one. Our annual Health Needs Assessment found that Frankston and Port Melbourne were two suburbs with the highest rates of mental health conditions and suicidality in south east Melbourne.

Research shows feeling connected and having a sense of belonging can be protective factors for suicidality ( Ending Loneliness Together, 2020 ). Despite the importance of meaningful relationships for our health and wellbeing, many Australian men are struggling to make and maintain them. Approximately two in five men report feeling lonely and 37% are unhappy with the quality of their relationships ( Healthy Male, 2023 ).

To support south east Melbourne men in finding connection and building positive relationships, this year we commissioned two Men’s Tables in Frankston and Port Melbourne. The Men’s Table is a national organisation which started in 2011 when twelve men got together for a chat and a local bite to eat after co-founder Ben Hughes told a couple of mates he was struggling through a rough divorce and a tough time running his business. Instantly benefiting from the judgment-free support and the informal way in which they could talk honestly about their lives and their feelings, they knew they were on to something special. So Ben and cofounder David Pointon decided in 2019 to share the formula with other men - a cheap meal, once a month at the same time and in the same place with the same group of men.

Today, tables are hosted in local communities across Australia and they’re changing men’s lives. When joining a table, it is made clear that it is a safe, non-judgmental space, focused on connection and belonging. All men joining tables are supported from the onset through an introduction to the concept (a taster creatively named the Entrée), a rundown on the structure of the monthly table and access to LivingWorks ASIST suicide prevention training to strengthen their skills in recognising and responding to suicidal thoughts and behaviours.

Our first Frankston entrée (first meeting) was held in February 2023, and now every month the same ten men sit together at the same time, in the same place to listen and share. Bill Karametos, Regional Host for south east Melbourne, says “Our priority is to get men connecting, so the Table is free to attend, and men simply pay for their meal and drink. The Frankston table is off to a great start, with all men attending initial training and openly sharing in their first few months.”

Ninety percent of men joining the Frankston table stated their reason for joining was to find friendship and connection. Just a few months in, they’re already seeing the benefits:

“I learned about The Men's Table at a time when I was feeling lonely, disconnected and anxious. Since joining I have met a great group of men, shared our stories and feelings and connected as friends. The Men's Table is such a great initiative and has definitely helped me. I'm feeling much more positive as a result.” - Gary, 59 years.

“It is good to be surrounded by men who are vulnerable and open to me. I have understood but struggled with this my whole life and to have men opening up about fears and worries has been healthy for me” - Andy, 52

"I have never been interested in football, cricket or any other sporting activity so could only talk with other men about work and the weather. My wife saw an advertisement for the Men’s Table on Facebook and mentioned it to me as a way to have good conversations with other likeminded men. There is the normal meet and greet each month, then dinner with a glass of wine and then we discuss topics of mutual interest. It is nice to be able to ask questions in a safe space which you have wanted answers to for years." - Gary, 73

The impact of the tables extends far beyond the monthly sitting. The Men’s Table recent annual survey showed that 81% of men who have attended a table said there was a positive ripple effect to other relationships in their life, including less anger at home. Twelve percent of men who had felt life wasn’t worth living in the year prior to joining the table, report the new community has had a preventative effect on them. And the number of men willing to reach out to someone during tough times increased by 36%.

We are excited to hear more about the positive impact the tables have on men’s lives as the year progresses.

If you, or someone you know, might be interested in joining a Men’s Table visit www.themenstable.org or call 1800 636 782.

Tender: Establish and operate new headspace in South Melbourne

Wed, 07 Jun 2023 01:22:37 GMT

SEMPHN is pleased to invite eligible organisations to tender as the lead agency for a new headspace centre in South Melbourne.

About the tender

The new headspace centre will deliver a service model responsive to the needs of young people and families who live, study, work and/or have connections to South Melbourne and surrounding areas. The successful lead agency will work collaboratively with headspace National and SEMPHN staff to establish the service. Given South Melbourne's close proximity to the North Western Melbourne Primary Health Network (NWMPHN) catchment, the service model will need to ensure it is responsive to neighbouring local government areas i.e. Melbourne City Council and relevant youth mental health service providers i.e. Royal Melbourne Hospital.

The eligibility criteria and full specifications of the service are available on SEMPHN’s eProcure .

The headspace model

headspace is designed to improve the mental, social, and emotional wellbeing of young people in Australia aged 12 - 25 years. The headspace model is based on removing the barriers to service access and increasing the propensity for young people to seek help. The aim is to ensure that young people receive accessible, appropriate, and effective services within a sustainable service system.

The headspace centre model has an early intervention orientation and comprises four core service streams: mental health, physical/sexual health, drug and alcohol and educational/vocational services .

The activities related to headspace South Melbourne must prioritise and ensure youth-friendly practices within service establishment and operation. All activities must be tailored to suit the needs of young people (aged 12-25 years), their families and friends and the services aligned with the headspace centre service model.

How to apply

Review the eligibility criteria and specifications for the service on SEMPHN’s eProcure
All applications must be submitted through SEMPHN’s eProcure by the closing date (30 June 2023).
All questions regarding the opportunity must be submitted through SEMPHN’s eProcure .

Key dates

25 May 2023: Tender opens
31 May 2023: Tender Information Session Recording published on eProcure
16 June 2023: Closing date for questions via eProcure
30 June 2023: Closing date for responses (3pm)
31 August 2023 : Outcome advised
1 December 2023: Contract commencement
1 July 2024: Service commencement date
30 June 2025: Service end date.

Changes ease non-admitted referrals for GPs, hospitals and patients

Tue, 23 May 2023 06:14:54 GMT

A new Victorian Department of Health policy to streamline access to non-admitted specialist services in public hospitals, to be phased in over the next two years, will make the process easier for patients and the GPs who refer them.

Non-admitted hospital services are provided to public patients in a range of settings. These patients do not undergo a formal admission process and do not occupy a hospital bed.

In the past there has sometimes been confusion around the requirements and responsibilities of GPs, specialists and hospitals in governing this process. Following a review of non-admitted service referral protocols this has now been resolved, with clear guidelines established. The result, called the Managing referrals to non-admitted specialist services in Victorian public health services policy , is the first major overhaul of the system in a decade.

The new policy provides simple and clear pathways for Victorian public health services and referring GPs.

Health services can request a specialist be named in referral documents; however, it is no longer a reason for rejecting a referral. The policy also commits hospitals to informing GPs about their referrals within 8 working days.

“This policy provides a level of assurance that we haven’t had before for non-admitted patients,” said Dr Jeannie Knapp, a GP advisor to North Western Melbourne Primary Health Network.

“Victorian hospitals already provide these levels of communication for surgery, and most hospitals have this referral management in place. As a GP, it is reassuring that there is now a process of clear communication in place.”

Dr Knapp added that as new directives in the policy come into effect over the next two years they will have a positive impact for doctors and consumers.

“Knowing that my patients are informed of waiting times allows me to better support them over this time,” she said.

“Having this transparency reduces stress and anxiety for both me and the patient.

“I still regularly check HealthPathways to ensure I have all the details needed for a referral – so it is accepted the first time. And in a perfect world there’d be a universal e-referral system for all hospitals. However, I feel better knowing that if I make an error on an urgent referral, the hospital will phone me to follow up and ensure the patient doesn’t fall through the cracks.”

For more detail on the implications of the new policy see below.

Important sections of the policy for GPs

The table below outlines the most important parts of the policy for GPs.

Read the full policy

Visit the Victorian Department of Health website to read the full policy.

For more information visit HealthPathways

Your local HealthPathways or care pathways site includes statewide specialist criteria to support GPs to submit successful referrals to specialist services in Victorian hospitals.

If you are experiencing issues with referrals to your local hospital, please email the general practice liaison officer.

COVID+ Pathways Program update and sources of support for Victorians with COVID-19

Tue, 16 May 2023 06:15:20 GMT

The State Gove rnment have issued an update for health and social support services (May 2023).

Background

Having supported close to 2.5 million Victorians diagnosed with COVID-19 via telehealth nursing, remote monitoring and access to health and social support services, the COVID Positive Pathways program has played a critical role during the period of Victoria’s pandemic emergency. We are immensely proud of how health services, community health and social support organisations have worked together to care for their communities.

With a range of supports now available for Victorians with COVID-19, the C+P Program will stand down, with the last day of patient enrolment being 1 June 2023. A deviation from this date will only occur in exceptional circumstances, such as a sharp rise in hospitalisations.

For current information on the Pathways Program visit www.coronavirus.vic.gov.au/covid-positive-pathways

Sources of ongoing information and support for Victorians detailed below.

Information for people with COVID-19 and their carers

Click the headings to be taken to the appropriate link for more information.

Where to get care & support if you have COVID-19

Your GP – call your usual GP to ask if they can see you in person or via a telehealth (telephone) appointment. Be sure to let them know you have tested positive for COVID-19.
Accessing antiviral medication – People aged over 70, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged over 30, and those living with health risk factors, chronic conditions, and immunosuppression (weakened immune system) are urged to check their eligibility for COVID medicines and contact their General Practitioner or a free GP Respiratory Clinic, even if their symptoms are mild. If you can’t get an appointment, or there is not a Respiratory clinic in your area, you can contact the Victorian Virtual Emergency Department. For more information, visit www.coronavirus.vic.gov.au/covid-19-medicines
The National Coronavirus Helpline – 1800 020 080 is available 24/7 to provide information and support for Victorians testing positive for COVID-19. ( Update: As of 4 December 2023, the National Coronavirus Helpline was decommissioned)
GP Respiratory Clinics – offer assessment, testing and treatment for people with respiratory conditions (including COVID-19). Clinics can also provide antiviral medication prescription for eligible people who cannot get an appointment with their usual GP. GP Respiratory Clinics are free for everyone, with or without a Medicare card. To check if there is a clinic in your area, or to make an appointment visit www.health.vic.gov.au/covid-19/gp-respiratory-clinics-and-hospital-respiratory-clinics-covid-19 . ( Update: As of 31 October 2023, all General Practice Respiratory Clinics (GPRC) in South Eastern Melbourne have closed.)
Nurse-on-call – direct contact with a registered nurse for free, caring, professional health advice, call 1300 60 60 24 from anywhere in Victoria, 24 hours a day.
Victorian Virtual Emergency Department – a public health service for non-life-threatening emergencies. Access emergency care from anywhere in Victoria, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The service can also prescribe anti-viral medication for eligible people who cannot get an appointment with a GP or a respiratory clinic. For more information, visit www.vved.org.au/patients/
Accessing Rapid Antigen Tests (RATs) - Most local councils and some community health organisations and private pathology centres in Victoria are offering free RATs. Visit Get a COVID-19 test to see what is available in your area.

This official advice is from the Victoria State Government, Department of Health.

Applications open: Strengthening Medicare – General Practice Grants Program

Wed, 26 Apr 2023 00:31:15 GMT

South Eastern Melbourne Primary Health Network (SEMPHN) is pleased to extend the invitation from the Minister for Health and Aged Care, Mark Butler, for general practices in south east Melbourne to participate in the Strengthening Medicare – General Practice Grants Program .

The Program aims to help general practices and eligible Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations (ACCHOs) to expand patient access and improve general practice services.

General practices are eligible for a one-off grant of $25,000, $35,000 or $50,000. This amount is based on practice size and accreditation status.

To participate, you must follow these guidelines:

Read the invitation from The Hon Mark Butler MP, Minister for Health and Aged Care
Read the Quick Reference Guide and the Factsheet about the program.
Complete the Application Form which was sent to your general practice via email on 26 April 2023. Check your inbox for an email (from grants@semphn.org.au )
Wait for an email containing the Funding Agreement (which will be sent to your inbox via DocuSign). Complete this document.
If your organisation is not currently verified with SEMPHN via Eftsure, you must go through a once-off verification process with Eftsure to be paid – read more about the Eftsure verification process .

Key dates

Wednesday, 26 April 2023: Applications open
Thursday, 15 June 2023: Applications close

SEMPHN will process all applications and payments as efficiently as possible, however, with the expected volume of responses this may take up to a few months.

NACCHO will be delivering the grants to Aboriginal Community Controlled Health organisations.

If you have any questions after reading all of the grant materials closely, please email grants@semphn.org.au .

Coming soon: Strengthening Medicare GP grants program

Wed, 19 Apr 2023 23:26:55 GMT

SEMPHN will invite general practices in South East Melbourne via email to apply for this opportunity after ANZAC day.

Today the Minister for Health and Aged Care, Mark Butler, announced the Strengthening Medicare General Practice grants program.

The opportunity includes a once-off grant of $25,000, $35,000 or $50,000 for general practices, based on practice size.

SEMPHN will invite general practices in South East Melbourne via email to apply for this opportunity from Wednesday, 26 April 2023.

More information will be available on www.semphn.org.au once the opportunity is live.

More than 2300 people supported through a holistic mental illness program in South East Melbourne

strategicrelations@semphn.org.au (SEMPHN Strategic Relations) — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 01:27:26 GMT

With the right support, people with severe mental illnesses can live healthy and fulfilling lives.

Since launching in 2018, our Mental Health Integrated Complex Care (MHICC) program has delivered nearly 90,000 sessions and supported over 2300 people in South East Melbourne.

MHICC is a holistic program which offers care coordination, clinical nursing services, family support and improved access to psychiatrists and psychologists free of charge over an extended period (6-12 months) for people living with severe mental illness and complex needs, who are at risk of hospitalisation if appropriate treatment and care is not provided.

Our 2020-2025 Regional Plan found that 3% of people in South East Melbourne live with a severe mental illness requiring treatment. Our newly published Health Needs Assessment also found that high rates of mental health-related emergency department presentations occur in the SEMPHN region. In addition, intentional self-harm hospitalisations are higher in our catchment compared to Victoria for men in all age categories and women aged 25 years and over.

MHICC has a strong focus on ‘meeting people where they are at’ and providing support that matches their needs. Four providers (First Step, Mentis Assist, Mind Australia and Star Health) offer MHICC services covering all of SEMPHN’s LGAs: Port Phillip, Cardinia, Casey, Frankston, Mornington Peninsula, Greater Dandenong, Bayside, Glen Eira, Kingston and Stonnington. Services are delivered by a flexible integrated care team which can include mental health nurses, care coordinators, social workers, eligible mental health workers, psychologists and psychiatrists.

“Everyone’s mental illness journey is different, which is why the MHICC program is highly flexible and shaped around an individual’s unique and often complex needs. Our providers go above and beyond to support people in really challenging times, and participants often leave the program with more resilience and belief in themselves.” Meme Westney, SEMPHN Program Lead.

For many, family understanding and support is crucial to living well with a mental illness and complex needs. Carrie Weiss, MHICC Coordinator at Star Health, says family support and liaison is an integral part of the program.

“When a loved one is first given a mental health diagnosis it’s often an emotional time for a family. It can be confusing, filled with relief or stressful. It’s also a time where some clients feel alone. Care needs to be extended beyond the person living with mental illness. That’s why we support both the client and their family by providing education sessions to help them understand the diagnosis, possible treatments and strategies to manage. We recently hosted a lunch for carers, as an opportunity for them to come together, connect and have some time off from their often exhausting roles.”

More recently, Star Health has piloted a lived experience peer worker within their MHICC program to help clients connect with others who have faced similar challenges.

Mellisa, lived experience peer worker, said that she had multiple periods of unwellness, including hospital admissions, medication changes, mental health case management and other interventions.

“My complex case history places me in the unique position to empathise and engage with consumers that have bounced around services and/ or had difficulty starting or maintaining their recovery,” she explained.

“I will often share some of the personal challenges I have faced in my mental health journey as a way of showing where l could have tried different strategies. I also speak to consumers about helpful conversations l have had with specialists around my condition to support them to advocate for themselves, create agency and feel a part of their recovery. Supporting consumers to be the boss of their mental illness and not the other way around is one of my proudest achievements in my own recovery“.

Real experiences in the program

MHICC services are funded by the Federal Government.

How Eftsure provides security measures for your transactions with SEMPHN

Thu, 13 Apr 2023 00:48:10 GMT

SEMPHN has engaged Eftsure to manage the collection and verification of payment information to contracted individuals and organisations. This helps to make sure payments to you or your organisation can be paid quickly and securely, once registered on the Eftsure system.

Eftsure goes through a robust verification process to ensure your contact and payment details are correct. This process is mandatory for all vendors with SEMPHN . If you are a newly contracted individual/organisation with SEMPHN, you will be asked to go through this process with Eftsure once, when you are first engaged by us.

3 quick steps to verify your information through Eftsure

Below is an overview of how the verification process works:

An onboarding invite/change request is initiated by SEMPHN staff through the Eftsure portal. The contracted person/organisation will receive a link to an onboarding form in the Eftsure portal that needs to be filled out. The recipient will receive email reminders about this process from Eftsure (on SEMPHN’s behalf).
Once the form is completed, the recipient chooses a verification option:

They can instantly verify by selecting the Bank Link, OR
They can choose Manual Entry which means they will receive an SMS or email, as well as a phone call from Eftsure to verbally verify the contact and payment details in the form.

3. The details will then be approved at Eftsure and SEMPHN will finalise the onboarding process .

Once verified, you will not be asked to confirm your details again.

Why does SEMPHN use Eftsure?

Eftsure’s verification process provides an additional layer of security for recipients , providing peace of mind that the payments you receive from SEMPHN are legitimate, secure, and will not be fraudulently redirected.

Additionally, Eftsure helps SEMPHN reduce the risk of fraudulent transactions by verifying the authenticity of payment requests to SEMPHN, ensuring that they are legitimate and not part of a phishing or scam attempt.

If you have any questions about the process get in touch with accounts.semphn@semphn.org.au

Now recruiting Doctors in Secondary Schools: Dandenong and Pakenham

Wed, 05 Apr 2023 03:35:13 GMT

We have vacancies at Dandenong and Pakenham in our Doctors in Secondary School Program . This is a great opportunity to deliver youth-friendly health services to students at Dandenong High School or Pakenham Secondary college.

Current available positions:

General Practice Doctor (4 hours a week)
General Practice Nurse (up to a day each week)

If you (a practice manager, GP and/or practice nurse) have a strong adolescent and mental health focus and want to change up your daily routine to work with school kids – this is the role for you!

Benefits

There’s heaps or reasons to get involved. By being a part of the Doctors in Secondary Schools (DiSS) program , you, your practice and clinicians can help give kids the healthcare they need, where and when they need it. Participants like Mohita Suyal, Practice Nurse at Southern Cross Medical Centre and DiSS Practice Nurse at Hampton (pictured above), tell us they feel ‘fulfilled’ and ‘rewarded.’

Here’s just a few reasons you should take part:

Nurses and doctors

Do something different one day out of your week.
Make a difference in a young person’s life.
Put your expertise in mental health and youth to good use.
Extend your experience in a school setting.

Practice managers

Increase your practice community presence.
Establish positive relationships and partnership with the community.
Build trust with local young people and provide early intervention.
Offer a ‘different’ work experience for your GP and Nurse to add variety.
Give your clinicians the opportunity to use their skills and experience in working with adolescents.

Express your interest

NOTE: Please select ‘SEMPHN’ from the PHN list and ‘Dandenong High School’ or ‘Pakenham Secondary College’ from the schools list.

If you have questions or want to know more, call Vicki Lennane on 85146603, or email drsinschools@semphn.org.au .

Narre Warren PPCC provides free urgent, immediate care

Mon, 03 Apr 2023 06:15:40 GMT

The Narre Warren Priority Primary Care Centre (PPCC) provides free, immediate treatment and care for patients experiencing non-life-threatening injuries or illnesses such as mild infections, sprains, broken bones, injuries, and minor burns. The PPCC also offers pathology and imaging services.

What's it like to visit a PPCC?

Narre Warren PPCC is supported by highly skilled independent doctors and nurses, utilising excellent treatment and procedure room facilities.

George* visited a busy Emergency Department (ED) as a patient after sustaining an injury to his hand. On arrival at the ED, he was advised the wait time was 13+ hours, but there was an alternative service at the Narre Warren PPCC. At the PPCC, George was quickly assessed and treated by a nurse and doctor, had an ultrasound, had pieces of wood removed from his hand via a small incision, which was sutured and dressed before he received tetanus. A discharge letter was shared with his regular GP, and George could return to work and run his business.

The Narre Warren PPCC works in partnership with Casey Emergency Department and is supported by SEMPHN.

Narre Warren Priority Primary Care Centre

Where: 60 Victor Crescent, Narre Warren
Walk-ins: Available
Bookings: 9771 2020 or book online
Cost: Free

Supporting people with dementia to navigate local health services

Fri, 31 Mar 2023 05:04:37 GMT

SEMPHN is pleased to launch the Dementia Pathways: an online collection of local services, resources and supports for community members with dementia and their caregivers.

Elements of day-to-day life can be made significantly more difficult when someone has dementia. Common experiences include memory loss, confusion, misplacing things and changes in mood or personality traits. As the condition progresses, it significantly impacts a person’s health and quality of life and eventually results in the reliance on care providers for all aspects of their daily lives.

In 2021, the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety recommended the development of a comprehensive, clear, and accessible pathway for people living with dementia, their carers and families. In response to the Royal Commission report, SEMPHN collaborated with Dementia Australia to develop the localised Dementia Pathways for south east Melbourne.

SEMPHN’s Dementia Pathways include:

First steps for people who received a recent dementia diagnosis and their care givers and family members
A comprehensive list of local services in south east Melbourne for:
aged care assessments
allied health
dementia support
social and wellbeing
elder’s rights
care finder
palliative care.
Culturally and population specific services for:
First Nations people
people from multicultural backgrounds
LGBTIQA+ identifying people
those with young onset dementia (<65 years old)

The pathways were developed to increase awareness of dementia-related services and supports in south east Melbourne, with the aim of enabling people living with dementia to feel supported in their community.

To view the Dementia Pathways, or to share them with your patients, friends and family, visit www.semphn.org.au/dementia

South Eastern Melbourne PHN’s Position on the Voice to Parliament

Thu, 30 Mar 2023 01:10:31 GMT

Need support?

Our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander tribes were the first sovereign Nations of the Australian continent and its adjacent islands, and possessed it under our own laws and customs. This our Ancestors did, according to the reckoning of our culture, from the Creation, according to the common law from ‘time immemorial’, and according to science more than 60,000 years ago.

The Uluru Statement

We thank the Albanese Government for committing to the Uluru Statement from the Heart (the Statement) in full and encourage all Australians to embrace the Statement.

The Statement is premised on the Makarrata, “a coming together after conflict”.

In the last 200 hundred years, First Nations have experienced:

Loss of languages, families, and communities
Loss of land, waters and skies resulting in disconnection from their cultural, spiritual and economic inheritance.

Government policies have often failed because solutions designed through Western lenses are often bureaucratic and tend to discount First Nations’ voices.

Today, First Nations continue to experience:

The lowest rates of home ownership
The poorest health and life expectancy
The worst rates of homelessness, problem gambling and drug dependence
The world’s highest incarceration rates.

The Voice to Parliament is a recognition by the Government that First Nations’ voices must be consulted about proposed laws and policies that affect them. The literature shows that consulting First Nations’ voices leads to better wellbeing, health, and economic outcomes.

SEMPHN supports the Uluru Statement from the Heart and the establishment of a Voice to Parliament to enshrine First Nations peoples’ perspectives into legislation. The Voice to Parliament is a first step to reconciliation and self-determination with governments. Further steps include the treaties and truth telling currently being negotiated in various states.

Written by SEMPHN Clinical and Community Council First Nations’ members, Dr Luke Martin and Brenda McDermott, on behalf of SEMPHN

Need support?

SEMPHN understands that the current conversation and media coverage around the Voice may cause distress. It’s important to offer support to those around you and seek support if you need it.

Call Triple Zero (000) for immediate assistance if you are concerned for your safety or the safety of others.
Call 13YARN (13 9276) for 24/7 crisis support run by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people or 13 11 14 Lifeline .
Call 1800 805 801 (24/7) for Thirrili National Indigenous Postvention Service or Jesuit Social Services Support After Suicide (03) 9421 7640 | Email: aftersuicide@jss.org.au , if you have lost someone to suicide.
Call 1800 435 799 for Brother to Brother , a 24 hour crisis line for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander men.
Call 1800 184 527 (3pm – midnight, 7 days) for QLife or visit Black Rainbow , for LGBTQIA+SB support.
Visit headspace Yarn Safe for young people.
Visit WellMob for online health and wellbeing resources developed by First Nations people.
Download iBobbly a social and emotional wellbeing self-help app for young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples aged 15 years and over.

COVID vaccines update March 2023

Thu, 23 Mar 2023 23:56:20 GMT

See the latest advice from the Department of Health and ATAGI, relating to COVID-19 vaccines and boosters.

Click the items below to download the recent updates in .pdf format.

Start by reading the COVID-19 Vaccine Provider Bulletin (below) for an overview of what's new. The bulletin provides more information about the resources listed beneath it.

Are you willing to help during a State Emergency?

Wed, 22 Mar 2023 03:25:52 GMT

We are updating our list of primary health professionals, general practices, pharmacies and AOD services willing to respond in an emergency.

During an emergency, the Victorian Department of Health has a number of responsibilities as outlined by the State Health Emergency Response Plan . The Plan covers a wide range of events, including fire, flood, heatwaves, epidemic, wide-scale food poisoning, and train or plane accident .

To support the Plan, Primary Health Networks assist with preparedness, response, and recovery, so that local communities have the best primary health available following an emergency.

SEMPHN is updating its list of primary health professionals, general practices, pharmacies and alcohol and other drugs services willing to respond in an emergency.

Examples of responding includes:

Taking on additional patients for a short period of time
Staffing a field clinic where local infrastructure is not available
Caring for people affected by an emergency either locally or, if required, further afield.

In the event of an emergency, SEMPHN may send an initial SMS message asking for a response, so we know the potential capacity of the regional response. Depending on the context of the emergency, the SMS will be sent across the catchment or within a local area. The work is most likely to be volunteer-based.

Periodically, we will run a drill of the system. The SMS message will make it clear that it is a drill.

If you or your practice/organisation is interested, please complete this Emergency Response Survey .

Information gathered will be recorded in a secure, limited-access area of our database as well as being shared with the Department of Health for the purposes of the emergency response only.

New Dari mental wellbeing podcast series for Afghans living in south east Melbourne

Fri, 17 Mar 2023 03:06:28 GMT

Pictured: Jesse (left) and Mirwais (right) working hard to edit and finalise the episodes.

The Healthy Mind, Healthy Life podcast series is delivered in Dari and explores life challenges, evidence based advice and showcases supports in the community.

Every day, all over the world, people make one of the most difficult decisions in their lives: to leave their homes in search of a safer, better life. This can be even more challenging when they don’t have a choice and must flee.

Nearly one in four people living in south east Melbourne are born overseas and over 200 languages are spoken in our diverse community. Over the past few years, SEMPHN and Monash Health Refugee and Wellbeing Team have assisted more than 720 Afghan refugees by coordinating their health care to help them settle in south east Melbourne. There is a well-established and growing Afghan community in our catchment, particularly within the City of Casey and Greater Dandenong.

Despite the struggles faced by Afghan migrants and refugees, the community remains unfamiliar with mental wellbeing.

“In the Afghan community, mental health is not very popular. As a refugee, people think if you feel stressed, nervous, sad, don’t like to talk to people and don’t feel good, it’s normal” says Mirwais, a Bicultural Program worker from SMRC who migrated from Afghanistan to Pakistan in 1996 when Taliban seized the capital Kabul, and after 20 years migrated to Australia in 2018.

Southern Migrant and Refugee Centre (SMRC) worked alongside Dari speaking people, as well as Better Place Australia and SEMPHN, to design a conversational podcast series that explains mental health and wellbeing issues in a way that makes sense for people from Afghanistan as they settle into life in Australia.

The new Healthy Mind, Healthy Life podcast series delivered in Dari draws on learnings from SMRC’s 30-year history of working with migrants and refugees, SEMPHN’s expertise in commissioning tailored health care and Better Place Australia’s clinical experience through delivery of evidence-informed suicide prevention initiatives. It explores the challenges people face at various stages in their lives, provides practical evidence-based advice and highlights the many supports available in the community. Each episode involves diverse community leaders and role models, psychologists, religious scholars and community workers sharing their experience and expertise.

Stana Cubra, Manager of Suicide Prevention at SEMPHN says:

“Uprooting your life and settling in a new country is a significant change that brings many layers of uncertainty and challenges. For the Afghan and other cultural communities, having that safe space to understand and talk about mental health challenges in your language is paramount to living a healthy life.“

Mirwais oversaw the development of the podcast and found it was useful for his own mental health. “To mention and learn about mental health was very new to me. Through the podcast I learnt the meaning of mental health, to be open about my mental health and not be shameful about it. I think people will benefit from it and feel safer in sharing their own stories.”

The Healthy Mind, Healthy Life podcast series is free to listen to on Spotify , Anchor FM , Google Podcasts , Apple Music .

[Closed] Up to $1.4m for allied health to deliver a dementia rehabilitation program

Tue, 14 Mar 2023 04:13:39 GMT

SEMPHN is pleased to welcome applications from allied health providers for the opportunity to deliver a dementia rehabilitation program to support healthy ageing in the local government areas (LGA) of the Mornington Peninsula Shire and the City of Casey.

Why is this service needed?

About the program

The dementia rehabilitation program aims to improve access to allied health-led rehabilitation activities for older people (65+) living with dementia in Mornington Peninsula and Casey, to support their independence and wellbeing. The program will increase awareness of dementia support services and available treatments.

This program will provide physical activities, social support , and education led by health professionals and will be personalised to each participant in the program. The program will help participants maintain their quality of life and function in their day-to-day life, with the aim of supporting people to live in the community for longer.

Activities of this program include, but not be limited to: home visits, assessments, occupational therapy, speech therapy, and physiotherapy. These activities will be provided along with physical, emotional, and psychological support to the person with dementia.

The successful tenderer(s) will be required to work with GPs in Mornington Peninsula Shire and the City of Casey to promote and connect people to existing programs and pathways for rehabilitation activities for dementia. Preference will be given to respondents that can deliver dementia rehabilitation program services across both specified LGAs.

How to apply

All tender applications must be submitted via SEMPHN's eProcure .
All questions about this tender must be submitted via SEMPHN's eProcure .

Key dates

14 March 2023: Tender opens in eProcure
27 March 2023: Questions close in eProcure
3 April 2023, 3 pm: Tender closes in eProcure
18 May 2023: Contract commences
1 June 2023: Service commences
30 June 2024: Contract ends

A new innovative peer mentoring program supports practice managers in south east Melbourne

Tue, 07 Mar 2023 19:00:04 GMT

Setting them up for success: this mentoring program links practice managers who are just starting out with more established practice managers for guidance, advice and informal training.

The roll-on effects of the COVID outbreak hit general practices in south east Melbourne hard, and many are still recovering today. Seven lockdowns, an immediate pivot in service delivery, workforce constraints due to staff contracting COVID and increased open hours resulted in experienced practice managers leaving the health industry feeling burnt out and often at short notice.

In response to this, a new wave of practice managers were recruited in 2022. Many were promoted from an administrative or nursing background with limited knowledge of what a practice manager role entails. Practice managers are essentially the backbone of a general practice. They’re responsible for overseeing all administrative and business operations, ensuring everything runs smoothly. There was a clear problem – if new practice managers started their roles feeling overwhelmed, general practices were at risk of losing more staff, ultimately interrupting their operations and service delivery.

SEMPHN has five incredibly dedicated Provider Support Officers (PSOs ) who provide direct support to the 500 general practices in south east Melbourne. Our PSOs meet regularly with practice managers to understand their challenges and work together to design solutions that support their business and the wider community. Upon hearing of the recent struggles, SEMPHN’s PSOs put their minds together and developed an innovative pilot program which involved linking new practice managers with established practice managers who had at least 5 years’ experience. The purpose of the program was to establish a voluntary mentor and mentee relationship between new and experienced practice managers by encouraging weekly conversations (over the phone, zoom or in-person) that provide guidance, advice and informal training.

The pilot peer mentoring program kicked off in November 2022 with fourteen mentors and fourteen mentees participating. Over the course of six weeks, they connected predominantly online or over the phone. Overall, the program was a huge success with mentees reporting increased knowledge and confidence in their role. Both mentors and mentees agreed that connecting with another practice manager enabled problems to be resolved faster. Despite the pilot round of the program finishing, many mentors and mentees still remain in contact because they find having a support network in an often-isolating role comforting.

Two participants Zoe (Mentor and Practice Manager at Carnegie Medical Centre) and Flavia (Mentee and Practice Manager at Brentwood Park Family Practice) who have stayed in touch got the chance to meet at a general practice networking event hosted by SEMPHN. When asked about their experience with the program, Flavia said:

“The program has increased my confidence and knowledge. Often practice managers are responsible for various tasks and responsibilities which can be overwhelming, this program has allowed me to understand the importance of delegating and collaborating with your team to maximise business goals.”

Zoe explained there are unintended benefits for mentors too.

“I enjoyed being able to help another practice manager in practical and meaningful ways. I also loved that the learning was two way – I learned as much from my mentee as I hope she did from me!”

Program lead and PSO, Michele Frederiks, added “Our role at SEMPHN is to be agile and responsive to the needs of service providers and the wider community. We are so pleased that the peer program offered the support needed for new practice managers, and even better that lasting professional networks have been established through the program.”

Following the success of the peer mentoring program, SEMPHN is now exploring its continuation to support more practice managers across south east Melbourne.

Primary health workforce initiatives like this, which directly take care of professionals in valued roles, are examples of how SEMPHN helps create opportunities for people in south east Melbourne to live their healthiest lives.

Putting consumers at the centre: new combined treatment service for people with AOD disorders & mental illness

Fri, 17 Feb 2023 02:02:18 GMT

SEMPHN is pleased to announce EACH as the successful tenderer to deliver a new, integrated service for people diagnosed with two co-occurring conditions: a substance misuse disorder and a moderate-to-severe mental health condition.

The integrated treatment service model will be delivered from Cranbourne , and open to eligible people and their families from the Local Government Areas (LGAs) of Casey and Cardinia .

About the service

This research-proven service model is being offered in response to our Needs Assessment, findings from the National and State Mental Health Commissions and feedback from local community members and Alcohol and Other Drug (AOD) service provider consultations conducted by SEMPHN over the last two years.

The consultations revealed a need for more services that can treat co-morbidities (the presence of two or more conditions at once) and simplify service entry for community members. Typically, mental health conditions and substance use disorders are treated separately, greatly increasing the burden for consumers and their carers’ seeking treatment.

This service aims to reduce this burden, as participants of the service will receive treatment for substance use disorders and mental health conditions from the same practitioner or treatment team , at no-cost .

The service will partner with existing services such as the SEMPHN-funded Mental Health Integrated Complex Care (MHICC) and Accessible Psychological Intervention (API) programs and other community health services.

Who is eligible for this service?

The service will prioritise the service for people who match all of the following criteria:

live, work, or study in Casey or Cardinia LGAs
have been diagnosed with a co-occurring substance use disorder and moderate-to-severe mental health condition
may not otherwise be able to access treatment
have one or more of the following:
experiencing homelessness or housing instability
are unemployed
have a culturally and linguistically diverse background
identify as LGBTIQA+
identify as Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander
have a chronic health condition
experiencing social isolation.

The service will open for referrals in March 2023.

New service offers a tailored approach to AOD treatment for LGBTIQA+ people

Fri, 17 Feb 2023 02:02:15 GMT

SEMPHN is pleased to announce that Thorne Harbour Health in partnership with Taskforce will deliver a new LGBTIQA+ specific alcohol and other drug treatment (AOD) service in St Kilda, Frankston and Dandenong.

Many people are aware of the social, cultural and historical factors which contribute to substance misuse within marginalised communities.

Over the past few years, SEMPHN has listened to community members with lived experience and service providers with regard to alcohol and other drug treatment services. We continue to ask ‘what is and isn’t working?’ in the sector and how we can best respond.

It’s clear from these conversations that there’s a need for a service specifically tailored to the needs of people who identify as LGBTIQA+. Our Needs Assessment insights and evidence tell us that LGBTIQA+ people are less likely to seek help or treatment for fear of discrimination, stigma or other pressures and that a large proportion would prefer to use LGBTIQA+ specific services. The service has been commissioned in response to this need.

The service will offer:

Early intervention targeting less problematic drug use, including brief intervention
Individual and family counselling
Withdrawal management with pathways to support and relapse prevention
Linkages to other services like day-stay rehabilitation, intensive non-residential programs, post-rehabilitation support, after care support and relapse prevention
Case management, care planning and coordination
Improved access and pathways to AOD services

This service will be available soon in St Kilda, Frankston and Dandenong (though is open to all LGBTIQA+ people with an AOD concern, living or working in south east Melbourne). Referrals will be accepted via Thorne Harbour Health.

Increasing cancer screening rates for First Nations people in south east Melbourne

Fri, 17 Feb 2023 02:02:11 GMT

SEMPHN is pleased to announce new supports to help First Nations people participate in cancer screening activities across south eastern Melbourne.

SEMPHN’s Needs Assessment provides a comprehensive overview of health needs across south eastern Melbourne. The Needs Assessment identified low numbers of cancer screening participation among local First Nations people.

The Dandenong and District Aborigines Co-operative Ltd (DDACL) and Star Health will deliver a cancer screening program that offers practical support with the aim to increase cancer screening participation among First Nations people.

The program will focus on three population-based cancer screening programs:

Breast Screen Australia
National Cervical Screening Program (NCSP)
National Bowel Cancer Screening Program (NBCSP)

The First Nations Cancer Screen Program, which employs Indigenous Health Promotion Officers, will:

Develop and provide resource materials to promote awareness of the First Nations Cancer Screening Program and the three national cancer screening programs
Increase awareness and understanding among community members of the three national cancer screening programs
Promote the cancer screening program among general practices as a referral pathway
Provide practical support for community members to attend cancer screening appointments by offering services such as transport to/from appointments, making appointments, providing bowel screening kits and following up on the bowel screening process.

DDACL will provide the service in the local government areas (LGA) of Greater Dandenong, Mornington Peninsula, Casey, Cardinia and Frankston.

Star Health will provide the service in the LGAs of Stonnington, Port Phillip, Kingston, Glen Eira and Bayside City Council .

Update: GP Respiratory Clinics

Thu, 09 Feb 2023 22:48:14 GMT

Federally-funded GP Respiratory Clinics (GPRCs) are closing on 28 February 2023. These clinics will be replaced by the 'GPRC Panel'.

GPRCs give patients access to face-to-face assessment of respiratory symptoms (including COVID-19), testing and immediate treatment close to where they live.

The following federally-funded GP Respiratory Clinics (GPRCs) are closing on 28 February 2023:

Carrum Downs Respiratory Clinic
Prahran Respiratory Clinic
Rosebud Respiratory Clinic

SEMPHN thanks these GPRCs for playing a crucial role in supporting local primary health services and easing the pressure off emergency departments by providing support to people with mild respiratory symptoms.

From 1 March 2023, Federally-funded GPRCs will be replaced by the ' GPRC Panel ’, which will be activated in cases of COVID surge.

Open services

The following state-funded GP Respiratory Clinics are still open:

Visit the GPRC Department of Health website for alternative GP Respiratory Clinics in your area.

Please contact VSGPRC@semphn.org.au for further information.

Update: As of 31 October 2023, all General Practice Respiratory Clinics (GPRC) in South Eastern Melbourne have closed.

[Closed] Tender: Up to $1.5m to provide Continuum of Care AOD service

Wed, 01 Feb 2023 21:45:09 GMT

SEMPHN is pleased to invite expressions of interest from organisations to pilot a Continuum of Care alcohol and other drug (AOD) service model which includes high and low intensity services in one or more of the following Local Government Areas (LGA): Casey, Port Phillip, and/or Greater Dandenong.

Why is this service needed?

SEMPHN’s Health Needs Assessments between 2019 and 2022 indicate a need for enhanced access and integration of AOD services across south east Melbourne, including the need for more aftercare and post-rehabilitation support services. In addition, for individuals who are experiencing vulnerability due to the multiple complexities associated with their substance use, moving from acute services to outpatient treatment can be challenging and may exacerbate mental health conditions and/or lead to relapse.

With this in mind, SEMPHN is commissioning the Continuum of Care service model pilot which allows individuals to gradually step down the time and intensity of their treatment while being empowered to return to living independently.

About the service model

The Continuum of Care AOD Service will offer high intensity and low intensity treatment options via a central ‘hub’ which comprises several wrap-around services. The service will be provided by a multidisciplinary team which may consist of expertise in mental health, primary care, housing, family violence, gambling, employment and pharmacotherapy.

The Continuum of Care approach lessens the likelihood of relapse as it allows tailored and expanded treatment options for individual needs, including more or less intensive treatment over time.

Two streams of high intensity treatment will be provided as part of this model.
1. Day Program for clients presenting with moderate to severe substance use disorders and multiple complexities.
2. An intensive outpatient program for clients with moderate problematic substance use disorders.

Low intensity outpatient services will assist clients to maintain their recovery gains by providing continued support through aftercare. Services are designed to allow clients to continue attending work, school and family life while being supported in their recovery journey. The full specifications of the service are available on SEMPHN’s eProcure.

How to express your interest

All expressions of interest must be submitted through SEMPHN’s eProcure by the closing date.
All questions regarding the opportunity must be submitted through SEMPHN’s eProcure .

Key dates

1 February 2023: Tender opens in eProcure
15 February 2023: Questions close in eProcure
22 February 2023, 3 pm: Tender closes in eProcure
3 April 2023: Contract commences
1 May 2023: Service commences
30 June 2024: Contract ends

Over 1,100 older adults supported through the residential aged care wellbeing program

Mon, 30 Jan 2023 00:24:32 GMT

Older adults in residential aged care facilities are five times more likely than those living independently to experience mental health conditions.

In 2018, with support from the Australian Government, SEMPHN launched an Australian first Wellbeing Program for Older Adults living in residential aged care facilities. Provided by Star Health and Better Place Australia across 85 facilities, the program offers free, agile and creative mental health and wellbeing support tailored to client needs.

To-date the program has delivered over 17,250 sessions to 1,100 older adults. What’s particularly special about this program is that social workers work alongside individuals to better understand their worries or concerns and guide them to find activities or opportunities that bring them joy.

Michelle Arnel, Program Manager at Star Health, recently spoke about the frontline role of social workers in the program, as well as its structure and outcomes in the January edition of Social Work Focus e-magazine.

“Some days we are writing and celebrating life stories; other days we are singing with clients to their favourite feel-good song, or assisting a client to watch their grandchild’s performance live online. Each task is another step closer to a client finding their joy or providing some relief.”

An evaluation of the Access to Psychological Services in Aged Care Facilities initiative was published in 2022 which further highlights the impact, need and success of these unique programs.

Read the feature article.

Read the evaluation report .

Introducing a new Care Coordination Support Service

Fri, 27 Jan 2023 03:46:40 GMT

South Eastern Melbourne Primary Health Network (SEMPHN) and in-home care provider Silverchain are pleased to announce an innovative Care Coordination Support Service that links eligible people to appropriate clinical and non-clinical services.

Silverchain will provide the Care Coordination Support Service across the all local government areas to support the wellbeing of eligible people, reduce presentations at emergency departments and decrease preventable hospital admissions, particularly after hours.

The need for this service was recognised through SEMPHN’s 2021 Needs Assessment – a comprehensive overview of health data across south eastern Melbourne. The Needs Assessment identified that the Cities of Frankston and the Greater Dandenong had the highest need for support relating to after-hours services in South Eastern Melbourne. In response to this, SEMPHN set out to establish the Care Coordination Support Service, which involves:

Working with general practices and community pharmacies
Supporting general practices to provide patient-centred care through comprehensive care coordination activities
Linking people who don’t have a regular GP, and are more likely to access emergency department services, to general practice services
Developing and implementing a pharmacy-based after hours awareness initiative to increase consumer awareness of local after hours services
Developing a potential referral pathway involving public hospitals.

The service supports patients based on their individual needs and will complement the care and clinical services offered by local general practices and pharmacies.

If you have any questions or need to check your patient’s eligibility for this service, you can contact Silverchain on 1300 300 122 or email screferrals@silverchain.org.au .

Now recruiting: Pakenham Secondary College

Wed, 25 Jan 2023 03:26:14 GMT

If your practice, (or a GP and/or practice nurse in your practice) have a strong adolescent and mental health focus and want to change up your daily routine to work with school kids – this is the role for you!

We are seeking expressions of interest for a general practice to deliver youth-friendly health services to students at Pakenham Secondary College.

General Practitioner (4 hours a week)
General Practice Nurse (up to a day each week)

Benefits

There’s heaps of reasons to get involved. By being a part of the Doctors in Secondary Schools (DiSS) program, you, your practice and clinicians can help give kids the healthcare they need, where and when they need it. Participants tell us they feel ‘fulfilled’ and ‘rewarded.’ Here’s just a few reasons you should take part:

Nurses and doctors

Do something different one day out of your week.
Make a difference in a young person’s life.
Put your expertise in mental health and youth to good use.
Extend your experience in a school setting.

Practice managers and owners

Increase your practice community presence.
Establish positive relationships and partnership with the community.
Build trust with local young people and provide early intervention.
Offer a ‘different’ work experience for your GP and Nurse to add variety.
Give your clinicians the opportunity to use their skills and experience in working with adolescents.

Closing soon

Register your contact details to express your interest in the program. Applications close 5pm Sunday 19 February 2023.
NOTE: Please select ‘SEMPHN’ from the PHN list and ‘Pakenham Secondary College’ from the schools list.

More information

If you have questions or want to know more, call Vicki Lennane on 8514 6603, or email drsinschools@semphn.org.au .

A culturally safe approach to alcohol/drug treatment for First Nations peoples

Wed, 25 Jan 2023 02:15:00 GMT

SEMPHN is pleased to announce a new service in South Eastern Melbourne which will offer a social and emotional wellbeing approach to alcohol and other drug (AOD) treatment. The service is culturally inclusive to specifically support local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people who are experiencing the challenges of substance misuse.

Our latest Needs Assessment (2021) shows that First Nations Victorians present at emergency departments for alcohol-related causes at more than four times the rate of other Victorians (Department of Health, 2020). With this in mind, SEMPHN is pleased to commission a new service which offers a holistic approach to alcohol and other drug treatment and may prevent further hospitalisations.

Taskforce will offer a holistic approach to alcohol and other drug treatment which will differ from traditional, Western-based approaches to recovery. The service offers a culturally safe and broader view of health, including mental health.

The service will focus on:

Culture
Aboriginal healing practices
Trauma-informed treatment (with a focus on intergenerational trauma)
Family-centred therapeutic practices
Protective factors and support
Social, and cultural determinants of health.

Taskforce will offer the Social and Emotional Wellbeing AOD Service in the Frankston and Mornington Peninsula local government areas from 1 February 2023.

Care finder services: Helping vulnerable Australians find aged care support/services

Thu, 19 Jan 2023 23:18:01 GMT

SEMPHN is pleased to announce the new care finder services for South Eastern Melbourne. Care finder services provide specialist and intensive assistance to help vulnerable, older people to find and connect with aged care health services in their local area.

The need for this service was highlighted in the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety (2021).

Across south eastern Melbourne, care finder providers will:

Find older people who are disconnected from the health system
Support older people to navigate the system and interact with My Aged Care
Provide guidance and explain the care assessment process
Connect older people with the aged care services or other relevant community supports they need
Provide periodic check-ins with clients to ensure they continue to have their needs met.

Who will be providing the care finder service?

Congratulations to the following organisations which will deliver care finder services:

Council on the Ageing Victoria
Care Connect
Better Place Australia
Peninsula Health
Housing Aged Action Group
Wintringham

We also welcome the following Assistance with Care and Housing providers who will be transitioning to the care finder program:

Star Health
Sacred Heart Mission
MiCare
Bayside City Council

The care finder service commenced 3 January 2023 and is available across South Eastern Melbourne.

For more information on care finder, please contact agedcare@semphn.org.au

Care finder service contact details are listed on the My Aged Care website .

Childhood immunisations given at home in Greater Dandenong and Casey

Wed, 18 Jan 2023 22:57:50 GMT

SEMPHN's Childhood Immunisation In-Reach Pilot Program is now accepting referrals for children aged 6 weeks to <18 months for at-home immunisations in Greater Dandenong and Casey.

The LGAs of Greater Dandenong and Casey have been identified as having a higher number of under-vaccinated children aged 6 months to <18 months, often because of socioeconomic barriers faced by their families. Children falling behind on the required vaccinations put themselves, as well as the community, at risk in the future, both physically and socially. The Childhood Immunisation In-Reach program aims to reduce the impact of these barriers and help families keep up-to-date with their child's vaccinations.

Eligibility Criteria

The In-Reach program is available to families and care givers of children aged 6 weeks to <18 months who live in Greater Dandenong and Casey.

Priority will be provided to families and care givers that meet the following criteria:

Access/transport issues i.e., unable to access onsite health services and appointments
Families/carers are housebound
Families, carers and/or child is living with disabilities
Single parent families
Large families (>3 children)
Families and/or carers experience psychosocial issues such as mental health conditions.

Siblings under 5 years who are also due for their vaccinations can be referred alongside their sibling. Vaccination administered to the sibling must be conducted in the same visit.

If you have a patient that would benefit from this service, please make a referral using this link , or click the button below.

Once the referral has been received, a vaccination provider will contact the parent/guardian. Each eligible child can receive up to two in-reach sessions under the program, and then will be linked back with their GP or relevant council immunisation service. The In-Reach childhood immunisation program is running until 31 May 2023.

We look forward to working with you on this program and helping assist families that need some extra assistance in accessing vaccination services.

Don't want to lose this information? Download our digital flyer to your desktop.

If you have any questions, please contact us via email at childhoodinreach@semphn.org.au

[Closed] Join the GP Respiratory Clinic Panel (GPRCP)

Mon, 09 Jan 2023 02:31:48 GMT

To ensure sufficient surge capacity is in place to respond to subsequent COVID-19 waves or any other future respiratory health emergencies, the Commonwealth Government will implement a GP Respiratory Clinic Panel (GPRCP) from March 2023.

Under this new panel arrangement, up to 150 existing, accredited primary care practices , which may include former GP Respiratory Clinics (GPRC) if they meet the standard criteria to participate, would be held in reserve to be activated as needed in response to the emergence of another COVID-19 wave or other major health respiratory emergency .

During periods of activation, GPRCP participants will be provided access to a new MBS Item (bulk-billed) for each respiratory consultation. Upon activation, they will also be eligible to claim a Practice Incentive Payment (PIP) equivalent to their PIP QI payment per 3-month period. Participating clinics will be able to provide their usual services through standard MBS Items while activated, they will not be constrained to only providing services under the GPRCP.

Read the Frequently Asked Questions about this opportunity.

How to apply

Register on AusTender at New User Registration: AusTender (tenders.gov.au) - AusTender is the Australian Government’s procurement information system.
Once registered, navigate to Current ATM View - Health/23/325151: AusTender (tenders.gov.au) – here you will find a link to the ‘ATM Documents’ and ‘Lodgement Page’
Tenders must be lodged electronically via AusTender before the Closing Time (AEDT)
If Tenderers need to lodge material that cannot be submitted via AusTender, Tenderers should contact the Contact Officer at email GPRC@health.gov.au prior to Closing Time to make arrangements for its submission.
Where a Tender lodgement consists of multiple uploads, due to the number and/or size of the files, Tenderers must ensure that transmission of all files is completed and receipted before the Closing Time and clause 9.4 will only apply to the final upload.
The Department will accept Tenders lodged in Microsoft Word 2003 (or above), or PDF format
The Tender file name/s should:

Incorporate the Tenderer’s company name; and
Reflect the various parts of the bid they represent, where the Tender comprises multiple files.
Tender response files should not exceed a combined file size of 5 megabytes per upload.
Tenders must be completely self-contained. No hyperlinked or other material may be incorporated by reference.

Key dates

5 January 2023: Tender opens on AusTender
19 January 2023 (2 pm): Enquiries close
2 February 2023 (2 pm): Responses close
March 2023: Panel commences

More information

For further information or assistance, please email the team at GPRC@health.gov.au

Priority primary care centres ease pressure on hospitals

Fri, 23 Dec 2022 01:57:59 GMT

Our priority primary care centres (PPCCs) are now providing care for people with conditions that require urgent attention but not an emergency response.

What are PPCCs?

The PPCC initiative aims to reduce demand on hospital emergency departments by providing a primary care service for urgent conditions that do not require an emergency response. PPCCs are GP-led services that increase access to primary care and provide care for people with conditions such as mild infections, fractures and burns.

PPCCs may be stand-alone clinics or operate as part of a GP clinic or community health service. The Centres will be open for extended hours (up to 16 hours per day), 7 days a week and free for people of all ages (with and without a Medicare card).

The clinics are supporting nearby hospital emergency departments by providing GP-led care for urgent but non-life-threatening conditions such as mild infections, fractures and burns. They also offer pathology and imaging services onsite or nearby.

Care is be available to anyone with or without a Medicare card, at no cost to the patient. (Costs may be required for imaging, pathology and other services.)

You can also visit the Better Health Channel website to book at a clinic near you.

When to visit a PPCC

If your condition is serious, but not life-threatening*, you can visit a PPCC instead of waiting in an emergency department. They have GPs and nurses who specialise in providing urgent care.

They can treat conditions including:

mild to moderate infections
fever
pain when urinating
suspected minor fractures and sprains
back and muscle pain
minor cuts, burns, and insect or animal bites
heartburn, vomiting, nausea
headaches, migraines and brief fainting
constipation, diarrhoea, abdominal pain
allergies and rashes
light bleeding in the first trimester of pregnancy
mild to moderate asthma attacks, coughs and other respiratory symptoms.**

*Call Triple Zero ( 000 ) or visit your nearest emergency department if you or someone you know is experiencing an immediate life-threatening emergency .

**If you have tested positive to COVID-19, call the National Coronavirus Helpline on 1800 020 080 or visit the Victorian Government website to access the care you need. Anyone who is mildly unwell with respiratory symptoms (such as coughing, runny nose or fever) can book an appointment at a GP respiratory clinic .

PPCCs in south eastern Melbourne

The first four PPCCs in our region are now open:

Prahran PPCC (supporting the Alfred Hospital)
Sandringham Ambulatory Care Centre
20 Commercial Road, Melbourne
Phone bookings: (03) 9119 1055
Online bookings: prahranppcc.com.au

Frankston PPCC (supporting Frankston Hospital)
Sandringham Ambulatory Care Centre
28 Cranbourne Road, Frankston
Phone bookings: (03) 9119 1077
Online bookings: frankstonppcc.com.au

Wishing you a safe and happy festive season

Fri, 02 Dec 2022 04:05:02 GMT

Please note SEMPHN's closure dates from December 2022 to January 2023

Our team are taking some well-deserved time off from 2pm Friday, 23 December 2022 until 9am Tuesday, 3 January 2023.

While many of us are taking some well-deserved time off, we know this time of year can be a time of heightened stress, anxiety or sadness.

Please note: the Access & Referral phone line will be closed from 12 pm (noon), 23 December 2022 until 9 am, 3 January 2023.

If you or someone you know needs mental health services or support, call Head to Health on 1800 595 212 . This service will be available Monday to Friday 8.30 am–5 pm (except public holidays) over the festive season.

Congratulations Dr Abhishek Verma - Australia’s joint GP of the year

Thu, 01 Dec 2022 00:50:07 GMT

We are thrilled to congratulate Dr Abhishek Verma, BSc(Med) MBBS MS FRACGP GAICD AICGG, an incredibly worthy joint recipient of this year’s National RACGP (the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners) GP of the year!

More than just an accolade, the award highlights the exceptional service and support GPs provide their communities.

At just 38, Dr Verma’s contributions to the sector and community are many, yet when he talks about his career and experience the words he uses most are ‘rewarding,’ ‘lucky’ and ‘privileged.’

Dr Verma said that the best part of his job by far is supporting people experiencing ill mental health in their wellness journey.

“It’s heartening to see people experiencing severe depression get the support they need, not just by me as their GP, but from a team of psychologists, counsellors and other health professionals,” said Dr Verma.

“Seeing people go on to live happy, functional lives is just the best thing. Outside of medicine – it’s just the best thing!”

Just 17 percent of newly graduating doctors intend to pursue a career as a GP and Dr Verma hopes he can use this award as a platform to advocate for more young people to pursue general practice.

“As a GP you get to build long-term relationships and make a real, meaningful difference to people’s health and lives,” said Dr Verma.

“You can see bizarre symptoms, which you don’t have to diagnose right away. You get to do tests and monitor to diagnose and treat over time, refining your clinical thoughts and diagnoses . It can be complicated and clinically interesting.”

For over six years, Dr Verma was based at Narregate Medical and Dental clinic, with a focus on minor surgical procedures, mental health, women's health, and child health. He credits his Narre Warren colleagues Dr Palmyra Debanks and Dr Munawar as mentors who helped shape his career.

“They were always professionally and personally supportive, not just to me, but to all the doctors at the clinic – they are truly fantastic leaders!”

In October Dr Verma began working at a Refugee Health Service based in Collingwood, providing health care to people who may not be able to access Medicare or mainstream medical care.

“In the past I’ve worked with people from diverse backgrounds, but mostly with good levels of health literacy. The patients with high health literacy are generally the ‘easy’ patients.

“People with different backgrounds, lower health literacy, who struggle to access services and support, often end up with poorer health outcomes and are the people who most need support.

“We need more doctors who will work with our most vulnerable people.”

Incredibly active in the health sector – particularly in governance and education, Dr Verma is the youngest member ever appointed and currently the only GP appointed to the Victorian Medical Board, to which he was appointed by the Minister for Health at just 33 years of age. Dr Verma is a serving member on the Boards of two rural health services, as well as being a conjoint academic at the University of Newcastle and teaching Monash medical students.

Dr Verma has served as the RACGP Academic Council of Assessment New Fellow representative, and is a RACGP examiner, a RACGP OSCE exam QA examiner and is a RACGP Expert Committee member for Standards in General Practice.

COVID update for Primary Care (recording available)

Thu, 17 Nov 2022 00:51:07 GMT

On 16 November, a briefing was hosted online for general practices to hear about the latest COVID-19 surge, new COVID variants and what this means for primary care. The webinar recording is now available.

Professor Rhonda Stewart, Director of the South East Public Health Unit, hosted the update in a 30 minute webinar.

View the Zoom recording , using the passcode fiW94^#l

The PowerPoint slides are also available separately.

Download the COVID Surge presentation slides
Download SEPHU's update presentation slides

[Closed] Expressions of interest to establish Endometriosis and Pelvic Pain GP Clinics

Wed, 16 Nov 2022 02:53:49 GMT

The Australian Government is committed to supporting women, girls and those assigned female at birth who are experiencing endometriosis and pelvic pain. This chronic condition can be painful, debilitating and have significant effects on an individual’s health, education and employment.

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.

[Closed] Provide combined treatment for mental illness and substance misuse disorders

Wed, 02 Nov 2022 03:57:52 GMT

SEMPHN is excited to invite services to deliver an Integrated Co-Occurring Treatment Service Pilot in one or more of the following Local Government Areas (LGAs): Casey, Cardinia, and/or the Mornington Peninsula.

Through our recent AOD consultations with consumers and service providers, there was overwhelming support for the commissioning of more services that can treat co-morbidities and simplify service access for consumers.

It's estimated that 75% of people with a substance use disorder also have a mental health condition. Substance use disorders and mental health issues often occur together. For many people, other chronic diseases frequently co-exist as well. Typically, mental health and substance use disorders are treated through separate services or programs, increasing the burden for someone seeking treatment.

About the service

Participants of the service will receive combined treatment for substance use disorders and mental illnesses from the same practitioner or treatment team.

The service will prioritise clients who match all of the following criteria:

live, work, or study in South Eastern Melbourne
have been diagnosed with a co-occurring substance use disorder and moderate-to-severe mental health condition
may not otherwise be able to access treatment
experience other cultural or social challenges.

Additionally, the service will prioritise partnering with existing established services such as the SEMPHN-funded Mental Health Integrated Complex Care (MHICC) and Accessible Psychological Intervention (API) programs or other community health services.

The service must be based in one or more of the following LGAs:

City of Casey
Cardinia Shire
Shire of Mornington Peninsula.

How to apply

All applications must be submitted through SEMPHN’s eProcure .
All questions about the tender must be submitted through SEMPHN’s eProcure .

Key dates

2 November: Tender opens in eProcure
16 November, 3 pm: Questions close in eProcure
23 November, 3pm: Tender closes
1 January 2023: Contract commences
30 June 2024: Contract end date

General practice staff, you're invited!

Sun, 30 Oct 2022 23:30:00 GMT

Come with your whole team for a relaxed night of networking, light dinner and self-care techniques from our special guest speaker. It’s been another long year full of challenges, so this is SEMPHN’s way of saying thank you!

General practice staff including general practitioners, practice managers, practice nurses and reception staff are all invited to our special end-of-year face-to-face event .

The Importance of Self-care and Preventing Burnout

Are you prioritising your own needs in your workday? The ever-increasing and evolving demands for services, heavy workloads, and multiple requests from patients can create an environment for staff burnout.

While some stressors are unavoidable, prolonged exposure can cause detachment, pessimism, and a loss of enjoyment. Join us to explore the physical, behavioural and emotional barriers that lead to burnout, as well as methods to mitigate workplace stressors.

Additionally, we're also offering free headshots on the evening by a professional photographer. No bookings needed for the photographer, it's first in, best dressed!

Book your spot!

Attendance to the event is free, but registration is essential. Book your spot here .

Note: registrations will close on Wednesday 16 November at 3 pm (2 weeks before the event).

Strengthening Medicare General Practice Grants

Tue, 25 Oct 2022 09:38:31 GMT

The October 2022-23 Federal Budget announced $229.7m for the Strengthening Medicare GP Grants Program.

One-off grants of up to $50,000 will be available for a range of innovation, training and equipment purchases and to improve patient access. Please sign up to our weekly Network News newsletter to keep up to date on the grants program, which we will share once we know more.

View the Department of Health and Aged Care Budget Overview .

[Closed] Provide care for urgent conditions as a Priority Primary Care Centre

Fri, 21 Oct 2022 05:33:04 GMT

The Victorian Department of Health has announced that 25 Priority Primary Care Centres (PPCCs) will be established in partnership with General Practitioners (GPs) in Victoria.

SEMPHN is pleased to invite accredited general practices to tender for four PPCCs in south eastern Melbourne.

What are Priority Primary Care Centres (PPCC)?

The four PPCCs that SEMPHN is commissioning aim to support the following health services:

Alfred Hospital
Dandenong Hospital
Frankston Hospital
Casey Hospital

Note: Please submit one application per hospital site if applying for multiple hospitals.

An initial establishment grant of up to $150,000 will be available to PPCC service providers. Additionally, a monthly operating grant of approximately $180,000 is available subject to need in line with the PPCC service model (and cannot be used to support existing services or operating hours). Please read the specifications in eProcure for more details.

How to apply

All applications must be submitted through SEMPHN’s eProcure .
All questions about the tender must be submitted through SEMPHN’s eProcure .

Key dates

21 October: Tender opens on eProcure
25 October: Market briefing (View the recording here )
27 October, noon: Questions close in eProcure
31 October, noon: Tender closes
November/December 2022: Contract commences

[Closed] Up to $2 million available to provide a Care Coordination Support Service

Wed, 19 Oct 2022 04:13:53 GMT

SEMPHN is pleased to invite services to tender to deliver an innovative Care Coordination Support Service (CCSS) which will link eligible patients from Frankston and Greater Dandenong to appropriate clinical and non-clinical services.

Why is this service needed?

SEMPHN’s 2021 Needs Assessment identified that Frankston and Greater Dandenong had the highest number of lower-urgency, after hours emergency department hospital presentations in the South Eastern Melbourne catchment.

About the service

The Care Coordination Support Service provider will be required to work with general practices, community pharmacies and public hospitals.

The Care Coordination Support Service aims to support the wellbeing of eligible people, reduce presentations at emergency departments and reduce preventable hospital admissions , particularly during the after hours period, by:

Working with general practices and community pharmacies
Supporting general practices to provide patient-centred care through comprehensive care coordination activities
Linking people who don’t have a regular GP, and are more likely to access emergency department services, to general practice services
Developing and implementing a pharmacy-based after hours awareness initiative to increase consumer awareness of local after hours services
Developing a potential referral pathway involving public hospitals.

How to apply

All applications must be submitted through SEMPHN’s eProcure .
All questions about the tender must be submitted through SEMPHN’s eProcure .

Key dates

19 October: Tender opens in eProcure
31 October, 3 pm: Questions close in eProcure
8 November, 3 pm: Tender closes
Early December 2022: Contract commencement
15 December 2023: Contract end date

[Closed] Are you a MATOD-accredited Nurse Practitioner?

Thu, 13 Oct 2022 04:35:53 GMT

Don't miss this opportunity to work as a MATOD prescriber at a local general practice.

Mediclinic Clayton has been selected to host the SEMPHN Area 4 Pharmacotherapy Network Nurse Practitioner Pilot, to trial the engagement of an Alcohol and Other Drugs (AOD) Nurse Practitioner in primary care.

MATOD stands for Medication Assisted Treatment of Opioid Dependence.

An exciting opportunity is available for a nurse practitioner to work as a MATOD prescriber in a local general practice.

Please note: the nurse practitioner must be MATOD-accredited.

The primary focus of the Nurse Practitioner will be:

Providing clinical care to patients with an opioid use disorder, including prescribing of MATOD
Collaborating with the GP team in the care of people on MATOD.

Applications close on Wednesday, 19 October 2022.
Apply here .

[Closed] Tender: Holistic approach to alcohol and other drug services for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people

Mon, 03 Oct 2022 02:44:25 GMT

SEMPHN is pleased to announce an open tender opportunity for organisations to provide a social, emotional and wellbeing approach to alcohol and other drug (AOD) treatment services in Frankston and/or the Mornington Peninsula for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

Why is this service needed?

Alcohol and other drug use can have damaging impacts on the physical, social, emotional, spiritual and mental wellbeing of people. This is particularly evident among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples in the context of social health determinants, racism, and colonisation.

The majority of mainstream AOD treatment focuses on biomedical models, which fail to recognise Indigenous values such as spirituality, family relationships, culture and community . Cultural interventions offer the hope and promise of healing from addictions for Indigenous people. There are unique aspects of Aboriginal culture that can significantly influence health outcomes through empowering Aboriginal people to maintain cultural continuity and their concept of health .

About the Service

The social, emotional and wellbeing approach to alcohol and other drug treatment will look to move away from the traditional, Western-based approach to recovery and healing . The model will empower recovery and healing through protective factors such as connection to land, spirituality and ancestry.

The social, emotional and wellbeing initiative requires respondents to:

a) Design and implement a social and emotional wellbeing approach to alcohol and other drug treatment in Frankston/Mornington Peninsula, with a focus on a broader, holistic view of health-including mental health.

b) Ensure the approach considers the safety and well-being of individuals, families and communities engaging in alcohol and other drug treatment with particular focus on:

centrality of culture
Aboriginal healing practices
trauma informed treatment (with a focus on intergenerational trauma)
family-centred therapeutic practices
protective factors and support
social, and cultural determinants of health.

c) Develop a set of holistic wellness outcomes to measure the efficacy of this treatment model. These outcome measures may include physical, social, emotional, cultural and spiritual well-being measures, for both the individual and the community.

How to apply

All applications must be submitted through SEMPHN’s eProcure .
All questions about the tender must be submitted through SEMPHN’s eProcure .

Key dates

3 October: Tender opens
21 October, 3pm: Questions close in eProcure
28 October, 3pm: Tender closes
Early/mid December 2022: Contract commences
30 June 2024: Contract ends.

[Closed] Tender: Provide an LGBTIQA+ specific alcohol and other drug treatment program

Mon, 03 Oct 2022 02:44:22 GMT

SEMPHN is pleased to announce an open tender opportunity for organisations to provide LGBTIQA+ -specific alcohol and other drug treatment in south eastern Melbourne.

Why is this service needed?

People who identify as Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Intersex or Queer (LGBTIQA+) often experience drug and alcohol use related to coping with pressures associated with accepting their sexual orientation, gender identity or intersex status. For some, these additional stressors, as well as the stigma and resulting tension of being a member of a marginalised community, contribute to problematic substance use.

When compared with the general population, LGBTIQ+ people are more likely to use alcohol and drugs and:

have higher rates of substance use disorders
have higher rates of co-occurring mental health diagnoses
are less likely to abstain from use, and
are more likely to continue drinking alcohol at risky levels into later life.

The LGBTIQ+ population has difficulty accessing drug treatment programs and is likely to have lower treatment success rates than the general population if they feel their needs are not being met. Evidence shows a high proportion of LGBTIQ+ people would prefer to use LGBTIQ+-specific services.

About the Service

SEMPHN seeks to commission a comprehensive, innovative, evidence-driven Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Intersex or Queer (LGBTIQ+)-specific alcohol and other drug treatment service.

Models of care may include a combination of the following in-scope treatment types:

Early intervention targeting less problematic drug use, including brief intervention
Counselling
Withdrawal management with pathways to post-acute withdrawal support and relapse prevention
Day stay rehabilitation and other intensive non-residential programs
Post rehabilitation support, aftercare support and relapse prevention
Case management, care planning and coordination.

Treatment may include a variety of clinical and psychoeducational elements targeting AOD and co-occurring disorders. Availability of on-site multi-disciplinary services (including, but not limited to mental health support, GP services, housing services, employment/education services, etc.) are highly favourable.

Locations

Respondents are asked to specify the proposed location(s) of service delivery within the SEMPHN catchment as well as the rationale for the location and how it plans to provide catchment-wide access to the service.

How to apply

All applications must be submitted through SEMPHN’s eProcure .
All questions about the tender must be submitted through SEMPHN’s eProcure .

Key dates

3 October: Tender opens
21 October, 3pm: Questions close in eProcure
28 October, 3pm: Tender closes
Early/mid December: Contract commences
30 June 2024: Contract ends

[Closed] Join the 3-month project to maximise local cancer screening

Mon, 05 Sep 2022 01:45:00 GMT

SEMPHN is offering ten General Practices the opportunity to take part in a three month Maximising Cancer Screening Quality Improvement project.

This project is offered in two phases. The first round commences on the Monday, 19 September 2022 and the second begins on Monday, 16 January 2023.

The impact of COVID-19 pandemic on cancer screening

Since the pandemic, we have seen a 10% reduction in cancer screening which is resulting in late diagnoses.

It is predicted that diagnosed cancers will increase by 50% within the next 15 years
People identifying as Indigenous are 70% more likely to be diagnosed with cancer
It is predicted that 25% of women and 33% of men will be diagnosed with cancer by the age of 75.

Make a difference, get involved

SEMPHN aims to decrease these alarming statistics. We aim to decrease these numbers by encouraging practices to get involved in a Quality Improvement project.

Participating practices will choose to screen for liver, breast, bowel or cervical cancer.

SEMPHN would like to see applications across our catchment, particularly Casey, Cardinia, Frankston and Greater Dandenong due to high mortality rates.

Benefits of participating:

$12,500 to support the practice
Increasing the number of patients screened for cancer, enabling early intervention and improves survival rates
Education workshops that fulfil CPD points
Individualised support and guidance for developing monthly PDSAs
Fulfil your PIP QI accreditation requirements.

Who should apply?

Practices who see the following patient cohorts should consider applying:

Patients who identify as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander
Patients from CALD backgrounds
A high number of patients who have never been screened for cervical cancer
A high number of patients aged between 50 to 74
Patients who are at risk of contracting Hepatitis B or C

Mandatory Criteria

General Practices must:

Be RACGP accredited
Commit to the project time frame (three months)
Nominate two cancer screening champions, one is required to be a GP
Have POLAR installed AND access to clinical data
Have access to PRODA

How to apply

Places are limited so get in quick!

Key dates:

5 September, 12 pm: Expressions of Interest open
13 September: Questions close
15 September: Expressions of Interest close
19 September: Project Commences

More information

Want to ask a question about the Quality Improvement EOI?
Please email commissioning@semphn.org.au with your questions.

If you would like ongoing updates with this EOI, please use this link to opt in .

[Closed] $2 million Aged Care Tender across four LGAs

Mon, 05 Sep 2022 00:19:03 GMT

SEMPHN is pleased to announce an open tender opportunity for organisations to provide specialist and intensive assistance to help vulnerable older people access services, called care finder, in the Local Government Areas of Kingston, Casey, Mornington Peninsula and Greater Dandenong.

What is care finder?

The aged care system is complex, with some people finding it more difficult than others to navigate and access the services they need.

The care finder program will connect and engage older people who have significant difficulty accessing aged care services and are at risk of 'falling through the cracks'.

In response to the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety, the Australian Government is funding Primary Health Networks across Australia to commission service providers to provide specialist and intensive assistance (care finder) which will include:

Supporting senior community members to understand and access aged care and connect with other relevant supports in the community
Providing specialist and intensive assistance to do the above
Specifically assisting people within the target population to access My Aged Care.

About the Service

The care finder program takes a holistic approach to a person's needs and other relevant supports in the community that may assist the client to maintain and/or improve their psychological, emotional, and physical wellbeing and/or break down barriers that may impede their access to aged care.

Care finder will help people to understand and access aged care supports and services by using intensive navigation support and assertive outreach to:

find older people who are disconnected from the system,
support them to navigate the system and interact with My Aged Care,
provide guidance and explain the care assessment process,
connect them with the aged care services or other relevant community supports they need,
periodic check-in contacts with the client ensuring they continue to have their needs met.

Care finders will also undertake extensive engagement and network building with the local community, care services and community providers to support both identification and engagement with potential clients and available services.

Helping older people who are most vulnerable

Care finder is available only for those who are eligible for aged care services and most vulnerable.

Reasons for requiring intensive support may include:

Isolation or no support person
Communication barriers, including limited literacy skills
Difficulty processing information to make decisions
Reluctance or hesitance to engage with aged care, institutions or government for any reason
Their safety is at risk, or they may end up in a crisis situation.

Care finder services will complement, not duplicate, the My Aged Care channels that provide access support to people who are able to navigate the system for themselves.

Services must be provided free of charge to the client, and people will not need a referral to access the service.

Locations

This tender is open only for the Local Government Areas (LGA) of Kingston, Casey, Mornington Peninsula and Greater Dandenong.

Respondents can apply to be a care finder provider for more than one of these LGAs in one submission. Preference will be given to applicants who currently or have previously delivered services within the SEMPHN catchment.

How to apply

All applications must be submitted through SEMPHN’s eProcure .
All questions about the tender must be submitted through SEMPHN’s eProcure .
Applicants are encouraged to attend the Tender Information Session. Details below.

Tender Information Session

Victorian PHNs have worked collaboratively to develop consistent contract documents and a common tender response document. A single care finder tender information session will be delivered collaboratively by all participating PHNs, online, on Monday 12 September at 1pm.

This is your opportunity to learn more about the program, the commissioning and contracting process and to build your understanding of PHNs probity obligations.

Key dates

5 September 2022: Tender opens
12 September 2022, 1-2pm: Tender Information Session (online). Register here.
27 September 2022, 3pm: Questions close in eProcure
30 September 2022, 3 pm: Tender closes
31 October 2022: Applicants may be interviewed
Nov/Dec 2022: Contract negotiation and execution
1 January 2023: Service commencement
30 June 2025: Contract ends

Medical practitioners no longer required to report COVID-19 cases to the Department

Tue, 30 Aug 2022 23:11:13 GMT

As of 30 August 2022, medical practitioners are no longer required to report COVID-19 diagnoses to the Secretary of the Victorian Department of Health. Pathology services will continue to report.

This comes after an amendment to the Public Health and Wellbeing Regulations 2019 removing the obligations on medical practitioners and pathology services to report COVID-19 diagnoses under those Regulations and the making of an Order in Council that requires notification to be made only by pathology services.

The department, through various channels, received reports that, given the significant number of COVID-19 cases in the community and ongoing rates of transmission, the requirement for both medical practitioners and pathology service providers to report COVID-19 diagnoses to the Secretary of the department was particularly burdensome for medical practitioners, as well as duplicative while pathology service providers were also required to report COVID-19 cases to the department.

Pathology service providers still required to report

Pathology service providers are still required to report COVID-19 diagnoses to the department within 24 hours by completing the online notification form through the department’s website, electronically through Electronic Laboratory Reporting, or by facsimile transmission.

Looking for Monkeypox resources?

Tue, 23 Aug 2022 01:46:31 GMT

Take a look at SEMPHN's Monkeypox resources page.

We have put together some information for health professionals who are looking for more information and resources on Monkeypox.

Since May 2022, there has been a global increase in Monkeypox (MPX) infections in multiple countries where the illness is not usually seen, including Australia. MPX may be spread from person-to-person through skin-to-skin contact, contact with contaminated surfaces or items, and respiratory droplets. Local transmission is occurring in Australia and anyone developing symptoms that may be consistent with MPX should seek medical care.

Our Monkeypox page covers topics such as:

Prevention
Infection prevention and control
Vaccines
Signs and symptoms
Testing
Treatment

SEMPHN Board nominations now open

Wed, 10 Aug 2022 06:38:52 GMT

Up to 4 Non-executive Board Directors positions available

SEMPHN is is a Company Limited by Guarantee and as such has an independent Board of Directors, which reflects modern governance standards and expectations.

Applications are now invited for up to 4 non-executive director Board positions.

We are seeking experienced people with broad skills and expertise, with strong finance or commercial experience, strategy creation or policy development, amongst others.

Is this you?

Strong experience in governance, finance, strategy creation or policy development
Strong interest in primary care
An interest in or speciality in:
Mental health
Alcohol and other drugs
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health
Population health
Health workforce
Digital health
Aged care

How to apply

To apply, complete the application form and supply a resume of no longer than 4 pages, via Ethical Jobs , by 11.59pm on 6 September 2022 .

To read the full requirements and advice for candidates, click here .

More patients can now access care coordination in south eastern Melbourne

Thu, 28 Jul 2022 21:30:00 GMT

SEMPHN is pleased to announce 21 general practices will provide care coordination services for patients with chronic conditions across south eastern Melbourne.

Care coordination involves working with a patient to develop a plan that helps the patient take more control of their health and achieve their goals.

Care coordination is for patients with a chronic condition(s), at risk of admission to hospital, or who may have complex needs. It is a patient-centred approach that involves the timely coordination of health, community and social services to meet a patient’s needs.

SEMPHN's Chief Operating Officer, Simon Wrigley, said this funding will help general practices to further support their patients.

"We're excited to welcome a new round of general practices into the world of care coordination. When caring for patients, we know that time and dedicated health workers make a world of difference. This funding offers general practices exactly that; the additional time or staff to develop individual, comprehensive, health plans to connect patients to the best care, when and where they need it."

Congratulations to the following practices:

Aghapy Medical Centre
Baxter Park Medical Centre
Brentwood Park Family Practice
Carrum Downs Doctors
Cranbourne Medical & Skin Clinic
Cranbourne West Medical Centre
First Health Medical Centre - Casey Central
First Health Medical Centre - Hampton Park
Keys Medical Centre
Medi7 Bentleigh
Parkview Clinic
Revita Medical Clinic
Shalom Healthcare
Somerville Medical Centre
Springvale South Medical Centre
St Mark's Medical Centre - Cranbourne North
Stirling Medical Centre
The Avenue Family Medical Clinic
The Peninsula Medical and Dental Clinic
Wells Road Medical Centre
Woodleigh Waters Medical Clinic

Learn more about Care Coordination.

Helping create a common language in mental health

Fri, 22 Jul 2022 05:43:36 GMT

Australia wide, the Department of Health (DoH) is introducing the Initial Assessment and Referral Decision Support Tool – known and referred to as the IAR-DST.

Guided by your own assessment and clinical judgement, the tool provides a consistent way for clinicians to deliberate their decisions when matching a person’s mental health needs with the right level of service intensity, at the right time.

The DoH is aiming to train 20,000 GPs nationwide in the IAR-DST, knowing that most people’s first call for help when they experience mental health issues is to talk with their GP.

IAR-DST training will be delivered to a range of mental health professionals starting in September 2022 and a small cohort of GP Training will commence in October 2022.

Widespread uptake of the IAR-DST aims to create nationwide common language across the mental health sector about what level of service intensity a person requires (Level 1 through to Level 5, based on the Stepped Care Model).

If you are interested in learning more, please email Natalie Eckberg (IAR Training and Support Officer) or Peri Boztepe (IAR Project Manager) at IAR-DST@semphn.org.au

Keen to hear some key primary health insights about your local area?

Fri, 22 Jul 2022 05:13:39 GMT

Come and join our CEO and SEMPHN’s expert data team as they walk through highlights of our latest Needs Assessment.

Each year, we use multiple sources of population, health and service usage data to look at the specific health needs of people across south east Melbourne.

This information forms a comprehensive SEMPHN catchment ‘Needs Assessment’ (available on our website here ), which is used to commission local services, guide decision making and provide support to our workforce in primary care.

Join the conversation

Come and join our CEO and SEMPHN’s expert data team as they walk through highlights of our latest Needs Assessment.

The team will provide you with insights which will help you to:

learn more about our community in south east Melbourne
understand health issues relevant to priority population groups in south east Melbourne
guide your decision making.

All primary health professionals including general practitioners and practice staff are welcome to join the conversation at one of two sessions offered:

Tuesday, 30 August, 12.30 pm-1.30 pm ( Register here )
Thursday, 8 September, 6.30 pm-7.30 pm ( Register here )

Hastings Respiratory Clinic opens doors

Fri, 08 Jul 2022 05:34:26 GMT

Hastings Respiratory Clinic is now open and providing support to people of all ages with mild respiratory symptoms to access a comprehensive respiratory assessment.

SEMPHN is pleased to announce the Hastings Respiratory Clinic is now open and providing support to people of all ages with mild respiratory symptoms to access a comprehensive respiratory assessment (including assessments for COVID-19), and to receive support in the management of their illness if required.

Hastings Respiratory Clinic is one of several Victorian State-Funded GP Respiratory Clinics (GPRC) which play a crucial role in supporting our local primary health services by reducing the number of patients presenting at emergency departments.

Who can visit Hastings Respiratory Clinic?

This service is for people with mild respiratory symptoms, from influenza, asthma, COVID-19 or colds such as: cough, runny nose, sore throat and/or fever. GPRCs will provide short-term support to manage a patient's condition, before being referred to their usual GP for ongoing care.

Services are available to those with or without a Medicare card, at no cost to the patient. Appointments preferred, walk-ins available (wait times may occur).

This site is wheelchair accessible.

Contact details:

Address: 9 Queen Street, Hastings VIC 3915
Phone: 03 8580 2410

Open hours:

Monday, 1 pm – 12 am
Tuesday, 8 am – 12 am
Wednesday, 8 am – 1 pm, 6 pm – 12 am
Thursday, 8 am – 12 am
Friday 8 am, – 1 pm
Saturday, 6 pm – 12 am
Sunday, 1 pm – 6 pm

Read more about GPRCs in south eastern Melbourne .

Update: As of 31 October 2023, all General Practice Respiratory Clinics (GPRC) in South Eastern Melbourne have closed.

A safe space for our youth

digital@pluralagency.com.au (Plural Agency) — Tue, 05 Jul 2022 04:37:12 GMT

A launch to celebrate the opening of headspace Malvern

headspace Malvern (which opened in late March this year ) celebrated its opening with a launch party with food, music and art activities on Wednesday 22 June 2022.

Over 70 people attended the party which kicked off with a Welcome to Country and Smoking Ceremony performed by Uncle Colin Hunter Jr, followed by speeches from special guests from headspace National , Access Health and Community , South Eastern Melbourne Primary Health Network (SEMPHN), Federal Parliament Member for Higgins , headspace Youth Advisory Group and the City of Stonnington .

SEMPHN CEO, Quinn Pawson said it was great to celebrate the opening of headspace Malvern with a party acknowledging the collaboration between SEMPHN, headspace and Access Health and Community to bring this important resource to the community.

“The past two years have seen many young people having to adjust to remote learning, job losses and social disconnection from friends and family”, he said. “And while we may be returning to some normality, the uncertainties from the pandemic are still impacting the mental wellbeing of our society, particularly our younger generation.

“Now more than ever, we are committed to ensuring young people and their families can access the right support services they need in an environment where they feel safe and comfortable”, he said.

Funded by the Australian Government through SEMPHN, the new service is being delivered by a consortium led by Access Health and Community which includes St Vincent’s Mental Health Service, JobCo, Uniting Victoria and Tasmania, Star Health, City of Stonnington and City of Boroondara.

It is inspiring to know that young people will be involved in designing, monitoring and evaluating headspace Malvern’s activities and services.

headspace Malvern, located on Northbrook House on High Street, officially opens its doors today to young people aged 12-25 and their families offering early intervention mental health services in addition to physical and sexual health, alcohol and other drug (AOD) and work and study support in-person, phone or video. Appointments can be made directly by calling the centre or making an online referral on the website.

For more information on location and opening hours visit https://headspace.org.au/headspace-centres/Malvern

Pictured: Back row L to R: James Rouse (Acting Director, Community and Wellbeing, City of Stonnington), Sophie (headspace Malvern Youth Advisory Group), Jane Seeber (COO, Access, Health and Community), Jason Trethowan (CEO, headspace National), Quinn Pawson (CEO, South Eastern Melbourne Primary Health Network), Dr Michelle Ananda-Rajah (Member for Higgins).

Front row L to R: Ria, Claire and Kate (headspace Malvern Youth Advisory Group).

Changes to Vic Department of Health COVID-response from 1 July

digital@pluralagency.com.au (Plural Agency) — Wed, 29 Jun 2022 23:27:14 GMT

Friday, 1 July 2022 a new COVID-19 branch will formally start operating within the Victorian Department of Health’s public health division.

This restructure is part of the Department’s planned transition of its pandemic response from the crisis phase to ongoing public health stewardship.

With the population now highly vaccinated, and Victoria’s health system under significant pressure, the public health response to COVID-19 must shift to focusing on communities which are:

clinically more vulnerable to COVID-19; or
less able to access vaccination services through mainstream population wide channels.

The Department will maintain limited testing, vaccination, and engagement capabilities.

Local Public Health Units (LPHUs) will play a central role in this transition, continuing to deliver COVID-19 response services, in addition to broader public health functions. This is part of the Victorian Government’s long-term reform program to build a networked, sustainable public health system.

LPHUs will be able to respond to future outbreaks by rapidly increasing scale when required and working with local resources including primary health networks and primary care providers.

South Eastern Melbourne Primary Health Network (SEMPHN) is engaging with LPHUs to enable a coordinated approach with primary care providers.

Testing and vaccination

The Department’s testing strategy will rely on rapid antigen tests as the primary testing tool, with PCR testing focused on priority cohorts. This will allow for the closure of some state-run testing sites , with the ability to scale up if required.

The state-led vaccine delivery will focus on at-risk communities and populations which have difficulty accessing other channels, allowing the closure of most vaccination sites . Some mobile and in-reach vaccination services will be maintained.

For patients unable to leave home to receive their COVID-19 vaccinations, providers can refer to SEMPHN's Vulnerable Peoples Homebound Vaccination Program .

Implications for Primary Care

SEMPHN recognises that while the Department’s scaling back of its COVID-19 response is necessary, primary care providers in the region do not have this option.

All general practices in the SEMPHN catchment are encouraged to complete a short survey on care delivery in the new COVID normal . Your responses will help us understand the support practices need and inform our approach to advocacy, support and resourcing for primary care.

Resources

Practices are encouraged to proactively identify at-risk patients and put plans in place to support their access to timely care, including antiviral and other early therapies if they contract COVID-19, influenza or other respiratory viruses. Visit our Winter page for clinical advice and referral pathways.

If your practice is not equipped to provide face-to-face care for respiratory patients, they can be referred to GP respiratory clinics for testing, assessment and management.

Frankston Respiratory Clinic open to patients with mild respiratory symptoms

digital@pluralagency.com.au (Plural Agency) — Thu, 16 Jun 2022 03:26:26 GMT

Frankston Respiratory Clinic is now open and providing support to people of all ages with mild respiratory symptoms to access a comprehensive respiratory assessment.

SEMPHN is pleased to announce the Frankston Respiratory Clinic is now open and providing support to people of all ages with mild respiratory symptoms to access a comprehensive respiratory assessment (including assessments for COVID-19), and to receive support in the management of their illness if required.

Frankston Respiratory Clinic is one of several Victorian State-Funded GP Respiratory Clinics (GPRC) which play a crucial role in supporting our local primary health services by reducing the number of patients presenting at emergency departments.

Who can visit Frankston Respiratory Clinic?

This service is for people with m ild respiratory symptoms , from influenza, asthma, COVID-19 or colds such as: cough, runny nose, sore throat and/or fever. GPRCs will provide short-term support to manage a patient's condition, before being referred to their usual GP for ongoing care.

Services are available to those with or without a Medicare card, at no cost to the patient. Appointments preferred, walk-ins available (wait times may occur).

Opening hours

7 am—11 pm, Monday to Friday
9 am—9 pm on weekends and most public holidays

Please see available appointments online prior to arrival if before 8 am or after 8 pm.

Appointments can be made by calling (03) 9781 0251 from 8 am daily, or book online .

Read more about GPRCs in south eastern Melbourne .

Update: As of 31 October 2023, all General Practice Respiratory Clinics (GPRC) in South Eastern Melbourne have closed.

Glen Eira Respiratory Clinic now open!

digital@pluralagency.com.au (Plural Agency) — Wed, 08 Jun 2022 00:15:09 GMT

General Practice Respiratory Clinics (GPRC) support people of all ages with mild respiratory symptoms to access a free comprehensive respiratory assessment.

SEMPHN is pleased to announce the Glen Eira Respiratory Clinic is now open and providing support to people of all ages with mild respiratory symptoms to access a comprehensive respiratory assessment (including assessments for COVID-19), and to receive support in the management of their illness if required.

Glen Eira Respiratory Clinic is one of several Victorian State-Funded GP Respiratory Clinics (GPRC) which play a crucial role in supporting our local primary health services by reducing the number of patients presenting at emergency departments.

Who can visit Glen Eira Respiratory Clinic?

Services are available to those with or without a Medicare card, at no cost to the patient.

Appointments preferred, walk-ins available (wait times may occur).

How to refer

Call Glen Eira Respiratory Clinic on 03 9119 1088 , or book an appointment online.

Glen Eira Respiratory Clinic is open:

Monday to Fridays, 10 am to 8 pm
Saturday, 9 am to 6 pm
Sunday, 9 am to 2 pm

Read more about GPRCs in south eastern Melbourne .

Update: As of 31 October 2023, all General Practice Respiratory Clinics (GPRC) in South Eastern Melbourne have closed.

Women supporting women to transform lives

digital@pluralagency.com.au (Plural Agency) — Wed, 08 Jun 2022 00:03:00 GMT

This 12-week program helped women in south eastern Melbourne build mental, emotional, and physical resilience.

The Women’s Spirit Project (WSP) is a grassroots initiative that aims to inspire and empower women experiencing disadvantage to transform their lives, through fitness, health, and wellbeing activities.

WSP will soon mark the completion of their Spirit of Transformation Program which is a free, 12-week program designed by women, for women aged 25 years or older who have experienced life challenges including but not limited to isolation, domestic and family violence, poor mental health, poverty and un(der) employment.

The Spirit of Transformation program enables participants to (re)-build their fitness, health and wellbeing.

Over 12 weeks, participants worked with facilitators and mentors from local communities. The program is designed to develop the courage, determination and strategies required for participants to realise their life goals and in turn create change within their families and communities. Participants meet weekly to build mental, emotional, and physical resilience.

With improved confidence, self-esteem, independence, and decision-making skills, alongside new knowledge and skills around communication, teamwork, goal setting, self-management, problem solving and coping mechanisms, participants are well equipped to develop a plan for their future that brings to life personal and professional hopes, dreams, and aspirations.

Find out more:

The Women's Spirit Project is supported by South Eastern Melbourne Primary Health Network.

General practices & pharmacies: Get reimbursed for free flu jabs this June

digital@pluralagency.com.au (Plural Agency) — Tue, 31 May 2022 03:58:02 GMT

Today the Victorian Government announced that flu shots will be free for all Victorians starting tomorrow (1 June) until 30 June 2022.

To help make getting the jab as easy as possible, more than 3,000 general practices and community pharmacies across Victoria will be invited to offer the free flu vaccinations from this Wednesday.

Reimbursement for general practices and pharmacies

The Victorian Government will reimburse general practices and community pharmacies for flu vaccines that are administered to any Victorians who are not usually eligible for free flu shots, so that immunisation providers can continue to use vaccines that they have already purchased.

The Victorian Government is offering reimbursements of:

$25 per influenza vaccine dose administered, and
the opportunity to apply for a one-off $2,000 grant to general practices and community pharmacies

This is in addition to any Medicare Benefits Scheme (MBS) payment for influenza vaccine administration. People who are not eligible for Medicare can receive their influenza vaccine at no cost at a community pharmacy.

How to register

A registration form must be completed for each pharmacy or general practice wishing to participate. The registration portal is currently under development and is expected to be open by 6 June 2022. Immunisation providers will be notified when the portal is active.

Registration will be available from 6 June 2022 and needs to be completed by close of business 13 June 2022 for general practices and pharmacies to participate in the program.

General practices and pharmacists do not need to wait until they have registered for the program to begin providing free vaccinations , and only need to meet the registration deadline of close of business 13 June 2022 to be eligible for the program period.

UPDATE (6 June 2022):

To participate in the grant you must register via the online portal .

Eligibility

To be eligible for the reimbursement program providers must be a pharmacy or general practice in Victoria, who is an immunisation provider, with an active Victorian Department of Health issued Onelink government funded vaccine account number .

To be eligible for the $2000 grant, the criteria are as follows:

administer a minimum of 50 influenza vaccines per clinic (including NIP and non-NIP vaccines) AND
provide a minimum of eight additional practitioner working hours administering vaccinations OR
provide a minimum of eight additional vaccination clinic hours.

There is currently no supply issue with NIP vaccines, therefore the 50 vaccine minimum can all be NIP influenza vaccines delivered to the NIP eligible cohort.

Read the Frequently Asked Questions for more information, or visit the Victorian Department of Health's website .

GPs, get paid to contribute to a SEMPHN project

digital@pluralagency.com.au (Plural Agency) — Tue, 31 May 2022 01:41:24 GMT

Are you a general practitioner in south eastern Melbourne? We'd love to hear from you.

General Practitioners, we are seeking your valuable input into the Initial Assessment and Referral Decision Support Tool (IAR-DST) project , worth $34.2 million nationally in the latest Commonwealth budget.

What is the IAR-DST project about?

Australia wide, the Department of Health is introducing the IAR-DST to help GPs make decisions when matching patients’ mental health needs with the right level of service intensity, at the right time.

The Department is prioritising the training of 20,000 General Practitioners nationwide and will reimburse General Practitioners $300 for completing a 2-hour group training workshop.

Widespread uptake of the IAR-DST aims to create nationwide common language across the mental health sector about what level of service intensity a person requires (Level 1 through to Level 5).

How can GPs get involved?

GPs, at this stage in the rollout, SEMPHN would love to reimburse you for an hour of your time to consult with you about the ‘who, what, when, how’ of the training rollout – either by phone, online or in person – whatever suits you.

This GP consultation process will help ensure that we design the two-year training schedule and delivery method around GP’s needs.

If you’re interested, please get in touch ASAP with Natalie Eckberg via email IAR-DST@semphn.org.au .

National Reconciliation Week 2022

digital@pluralagency.com.au (Plural Agency) — Fri, 27 May 2022 00:29:22 GMT

As individuals and as an organisation we must take the time to not only hear,
but to really listen to our community.

South Eastern Melbourne PHN acknowledges the Wurrundjeri and the Boon Wurrung peoples, the traditional custodians of the land and waterways our catchment covers. We pay our respect to their cultures, their Elders past, present and future,
and continue to uphold their ongoing relationship to the land.

We respect the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we serve and take a moment to reflect, regroup and to listen to the needs of the First Nations people within south east Melbourne.

Our Clinical and Community Council was established with the purpose of informing the Board with further insights into primary health needs including strategies to promote integrated, cohesive, mindful and culturally appropriate health outcomes and care for priority areas and groups within south east Melbourne.

National Reconciliation Week gives us an opportunity to reflect and learn from our shared histories, cultures, achievements and to explore how each of us individually and collectively as an organisation can contribute to achieving reconciliation in Australia.

Reconciliation Week commences on 27 May (1967), marked by Australia’s most successful referendum that gave the Australian Government power to make laws for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and recognise them in the Census. The week concludes on 3 June (1992), the day the Australian High Court delivered the Mabo decision, the culmination of Eddie Koiki Mabo’s challenge to the legal fiction of ‘terra nullius’ (land belonging to no one) and leading to the legal recognition of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the Traditional Owners and Custodians of lands. This decision paved the way for Native Title.

We look to these dates and draw inspiration for the future and ways we can keep the conversation of reconciliation active, not only for the week, but in everything we do.

This year's theme is “Be Brave. Make Change.” it is a challenge to all Australians - individuals, families, communities, organisations and government - to Be Brave and tackle the unfinished business of reconciliation so we can Make Change for the benefit of all Australians. We need to constantly ‘Be Brave’ and find new ways to ‘Make Change’.

We are honoured to have two members of our Clinical and Community Council who identify as First Nations people.

Leading up to Reconciliation Week we’ve called upon Brenda and Luke’s knowledge, insights and personal perspective to understand how we can better align to this year’s theme of “Be Brave. Make Change.”

We asked both Brenda and Luke a few questions based around this year’s theme.

We are working towards a future that ensures the accessibility of health care for First Nations people who face a vast array of additional barriers including experiences of discrimination and racism.

We will be brave and continue these conversations and hold not only ourselves, but our partners, stakeholders and providers accountable and continue these conversations well into the future. Together, we will continue to improve the provision of culturally appropriate care within or catchment.

General Practice opportunity to be a Priority Primary Care Centre

digital@pluralagency.com.au (Plural Agency) — Fri, 20 May 2022 05:32:35 GMT

The Victorian Government is establishing five new GP-led Priority Primary Care Centres (PPCCs) to operate after hours and provide care for people with low acuity conditions, for example, mild infections, fractures, and burns. The general practices will provide a viable alternative for people with conditions that require urgent attention but not an emergency response.

The Victorian Government is establishing five new GP-led Priority Primary Care Centres (PPCCs) to operate after hours and provide care for people with low acuity conditions (for example, mild infections, fractures, and burns). The general practices will provide a viable alternative for people with conditions that require urgent attention but not an emergency response.

PPCCs will have diagnostics (pathology and diagnostic imaging) on site or have access to the range of diagnostics to support the assessment and treatment of low risk, primary care type presentations. While the focus for PPCCs is non-COVID related illness, the centres will be able to screen for COVID-19 and provide referrals for COVID positive patients. Services will be available to those with or without a Medicare card, at no cost to the patient, with the fit-for-purpose facility open after hours.

PPCCs will have referral protocols and links with Ambulance Victoria, Nurse on Call, GPs, and emergency departments. Each Priority Primary Care Centre will be partnered with an Emergency Department and located in vicinity of the health service (but not co-located).

Locations for the PPCCs will be based on considerations including Emergency Department demand patterns, existing services and population need.

PPCCs will be based on a hybrid funding model, with the State funding an establishment grant and monthly operating grants. Patient consultations will be billed to the Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS).

Key Requirements

To be considered for inclusion in the invited submission process, the general practice or community health service with GPs must be able to demonstrate the following:

Readiness: The clinic can scale up quickly to commence operating as a Priority Primary Care Centre (within four weeks of confirmation of funding)
Clinical Governance: Practice must be accredited under the RACGP Standards for General practice.
Insurance: Practices must have insurance including Public Liability and Medical Indemnity (for Practice and each Practitioner).

In addition, the general practice or community health service with GPs will need to be able to demonstrate that they can meet requirements including:

Services offered:

Assess and treat patients with primary care type presentations such as mild infections, fractures and burns
Have diagnostics on site (or facilitate easy access to diagnostics) including after hours.

Accessibility:

Be open after core business hours – up to sixteen hours a day, seven days a week

Workforce

Have a workforce model including a GP, registered nurse and reception staff

Facilities

Have facilities including treatment rooms, waiting areas, suitable access for ambulance, pre-booked, walk-in, referrals and telehealth appointments

Note: additional service requirements will be explored in the following invited submission process held by the Victorian Department of Health.

Funding available

General practices that are selected to operate a PCCC will receive:

a one-off establishment grant to cover the cost of setting up facilities, including minor works, recruitment costs, and procurement of equipment and consumables– up to $150,000 ex GST.
a monthly operating grant to cover staffing related costs, consumables and facility running costs, to ensure the clinic is open up to 16 hours a day, 7 days a week and staffed appropriately ($180,097 ex GST per month +indexation).
patient consultations will be billed to the MBS.

Service duration and outcomes

It is anticipated that PPCCs will be operational from July/August 2022 (pending completion of the invited submission process) and operate for fifteen months from the date of commencement. It is anticipated that each PPCC will see approximately 330* patients per week. (*The number of people supported by each Priority Primary Care Centre may vary, depending on location and demand patterns.)

How to register your interest

To be considered for inclusion in the upcoming invited submission process by the Department of Health, please provide a brief overview of your general practice describing how the it meets each of the requirements outlined, via this link https://app.smartsheet.com/b/form/97d31bb17c5e40c09068da5288687519

Important:

The link will work for anyone however, your application must be completed in one sitting. It will not allow you to save changes so please ensure you have time to complete the application in full.
Registration of interest does not guarantee an invitation to submit, as further selection criteria may apply.

Please contact livingwithcovid@semphn.org.au if you have any difficulty.

Registrations of interest close 12:00PM (noon) Thursday 26 May, 2022

Submissions will be considered by the Victorian Department of Health from 27 May and applicants will be advised by the Department of Health (not SEMPHN) if they have been selected for inclusion in the invited submission process shortly after.

[CLOSED] Open tender: It's now easier than ever to apply for care coordination funding!

digital@pluralagency.com.au (Plural Agency) — Mon, 09 May 2022 00:44:52 GMT

Funding amounts of $125,000 or $250,000 are available per general practice.

Does your general practice have 5 or less full-time equivalent GPs?

Is your general practice interested in providing care coordination, but you haven’t had the time or resources?

SEMPHN’s care coordination funding can help and the application process has never been easier.

What is care coordination?

Care coordination involves working with a patient to develop a comprehensive plan that helps the patient take more control of their health and achieve their goals.

How can care coordination make a difference to my practice?

Care coordination funding can support extra staffing or extra time for your practice. This means more time can be dedicated to supporting your patients and to further refining processes, recalls and reminders.

Did you know most practices that received care coordination funding from SEMPHN have continued care coordination in their practice beyond the funding period? In short, care coordination works!

Watch this short video to learn how a practice (and their patients) have benefited from SEMPHN care coordination funding.

Who is eligible for the funding?

General practices in the local government areas of Bayside, Cardinia, Casey, Frankston, Glen Eira, Greater Dandenong, Kingston, Mornington Peninsula, Port Phillip, and Stonington can apply.
General practices with up to 5 full-time equivalent (FTE) general practitioners (up to 50 GP sessions available per week). General practices with more than 5 FTE GPs are not eligible.
General practices which have previously not been successful in their applications are encouraged to apply again. Our simplified application process makes it easier to apply than in previous rounds.

General practices which have previously received care coordination grants (CC1, CC2 or CC7) from SEMPHN are not eligible.

How to apply

All applications must be submitted through SEMPHN’s eProcure .
All questions about the tender must be submitted through SEMPHN’s eProcure .

Key dates

9 May 2022: Tender opens
20 May 2022: Questions close in eProcure
27 May 2022, 3 pm: Tender closes
18 July 2022: Program commences
31 May 2024: Program ends

Accredited general practices invited to join Hepatitis C Quality Improvement activity

digital@pluralagency.com.au (Plural Agency) — Mon, 25 Apr 2022 22:00:03 GMT

SEMPHN is offering accredited general practices to take part in a supported 4-month Hepatitis C Quality Improvement project.

Did you know Hepatitis C affects 65,000 Victorians and if untreated leads to multiple health issues such as chronic liver disease?

In 2016, only 1% of people with Hepatitis C were being treated. Fortunately, recent changes in Hepatitis medication management has led to a 95% success rate of the virus being cured after an 8–12 course of medication. It is envisioned that by 2030, 90% the proportion of people living with chronic hepatitis will be cured of the virus.

This Quality Improvement activity, focusing on Hepatitis C, supports general practices to identify and screen who may be at risk for Hepatitis C.

Why get involved?

Practices receive $2000 to support the Practice Nurse lead’s participation
This activity supports practices to identify patients who are at risk of developing Hepatitis C
Learn more in education workshops run by VHHITAL at the start, middle and end of the project
This activity offers support and guidance for practices to develop monthly Plan Do Study Act (PDSA) cycles
The activity fulfils your PIP QI accreditation requirements
Clinicians involved receive CPD points for education activities

Who should apply?

We are looking for practices with patients who:

Are at risk of contracting Hepatitis C, including lifestyle behaviours such as sharing needles and drug use equipment
Have had unsterile tattooing or body piercing
Engage in high-risk sexual behaviours including sex work
Have been infected with HIV or Hep B
Clinical evidence of liver disease such as persistently elevated ALT
Have spent time in custodial setting (prison)
Have immigrated or are refugees from Egypt, Pakistan, Mediterranean, Eastern Europe, Africa or Asia

Eligibility

General practices must be accredited to participate in the activity
General practices must commit to the project time frame (4 months)
A designated practice nurse must be the point of contact to meet all the project requirements.

How to apply

Places are limited so get in quick!

Expressions of interest open: Tuesday, 26 April 2022
Expressions of interest close: 3 pm, Tuesday, 3 May 2022.

Click on the button below to express your interest. Please note, clicking the button will open up another website where the webform can be accessed.

Should you have any questions in relation to the program, please don’t hesitate to contact Joanna Yates from SEMPHN by email ( Joanna.yates@semphn.org. a u ) or call 03 8514 4468.

Alternatively, you can contact your Provider Support Officer .

Mentone GP-led Respiratory Clinic's FREE service open for referrals

digital@pluralagency.com.au (Plural Agency) — Mon, 11 Apr 2022 03:22:37 GMT

GP Respiratory Clinics are open across South East Melbourne to support people of all ages with respiratory symptoms to access comprehensive respiratory assessments (including COVID-19).

Mentone Respiratory Clinic covers the local government area of Kingston. Mentone Respiratory Clinic assesses people with respiratory symptoms, including testing patients for COVID-19, the flu, and other respiratory viruses.

Jade Mare, Practice Manager at Mentone Respiratory Clinic, says:

"Patients at the Respiratory Clinic feel supported by the accessibility of the respiratory clinic and the access they have to COVID-19 care."

Mentone Respiratory Clinic offers a full nursing service to assist those that need education on the use of medications, spacers, oximetry and other self-care tools to make their COVID-positive period as easy as possible.

As part of winter preparedness, GP led Respiratory Clinics will be supporting people with mild respiratory symptoms , which can include sore throat, runny nose, mild cough, fatigue, or shortness of breath . These GP-led Respiratory Clinics play a crucial role in supporting our local primary health services by reducing the need of patients presenting at Emergency Departments.

The clinic can provide short-term support to manage a patient’s condition, before being referred to their usual GP for ongoing care and can assist a person to find a GP if they do not already have one. Services are available to those with or without a Medicare card, at no cost to the patient.

How to refer

Call Mentone Respiratory Clinic on 0413038995 .

Mentone Respiratory Clinic is open 7 days a week :
Monday–Friday, 7 am—11 pm
Saturday–Sunday 7 am–9 pm

Expressions of interest open to establish 3 new General Practice Respiratory Clinics

digital@pluralagency.com.au (Plural Agency) — Fri, 08 Apr 2022 06:03:30 GMT

Accredited general practices and community health services with GPs are invited to express their interest to establish 3 additional General Practice Respiratory Clinics (GPRC) in south eastern Melbourne.

Since 2021, the Victorian Government and Victorian Primary Health Networks have collaborated to support Victorians to access respiratory assessments, COVID-19 testing and care close to where they live.

Three new clinics for south eastern Melbourne

The three GP respiratory clinics in the South-eastern Melbourne region (SEMPHN) will be rapidly set up in the following Melbourne local government areas:

Glen Eira
Frankston
Mornington Peninsula

Expressions of Interest (EOI) are sought from accredited general practices and community health services with GPs in Glen Eira, Frankston and the Mornington Peninsula to rapidly establish GP respiratory clinics that have assessment, testing and initial treatment support capabilities. An EOI needs to be completed for each individual practice location.

Service overview

The new GPRCs will support people of all ages with respiratory symptoms to access a comprehensive respiratory assessment (including COVID-19 and other pathogen testing) and receive support in the management of their illness.

Clinics will also provide care for patients with COVID-19. Services will be available to those with or without a Medicare card, at no cost to the patient, with the fit-for-purpose facility open after hours.

GP Respiratory Clinic Requirements

General practices or community health services with GPs who are selected will need to demonstrate an ability to provide a GP Respiratory Clinic model of care including:

Undertaking full respiratory assessments including testing for respiratory pathogens including but not limited to COVID-19, and paediatric respiratory care.
Supporting short-term management of patient’s acute, immediate respiratory needs, with longer term management supported via referral back to patient’s regular GP.
Supporting patients who test positive for COVID-19 to receive care through the COVID Positive Pathways program, which links people to clinical care, monitoring and support services.
Providing clinical care and support for patients with COVID-19 if the patient does not have a regular GP or they are unable to access support via their regular GP. Care can be provided via telehealth or in a face to face capacity, with discharge back to patient’s regular GP following episode of care.
Capacity to provide paediatric respiratory care.
Be easily accessible and help to reduce ED presentations, especially after hours. It is anticipated that each clinic will see over 350 patients a week.
Providing services to people with and without a Medicare card, with no out of pocket costs to patients.

Further requirements are outlined in the EOI documents in eProcure.

Funding

Clinics will be eligible for an establishment grant, to cover the cost of setting up facilities, including minor works and procurement of equipment and consumables – up to $150,000. Clinics will also receive operating grants of approximately $109,000 per month to cover staffing related costs, consumables and facility running costs, to ensure the clinic is open 16 hours a day and staffed appropriately.

How to apply

Expressions of interest must be made through SEMPHN's eProcure.
An EOI needs to be completed for each individual practice location.
Questions about the EOI must be asked through SEMPHN's eProcure .

Key dates

8 April 2022: EOI opens in eProcure
14 April 2022: Questions close in eProcure at 12 pm (noon)
19 April 2022: EOI closes at 12 pm (noon)
27 April 2022: Interviews with shortlisted respondents (if required)
28 April 2022: Outcome advised
2 May 2022: Contract commences
30 September 2022: Contract ends

Update: As of 31 October 2023, all General Practice Respiratory Clinics (GPRC) in South Eastern Melbourne have closed.

New headspace centre opens in Malvern

digital@pluralagency.com.au (Plural Agency) — Mon, 28 Mar 2022 00:22:22 GMT

headspace Malvern is a new service opening at the Malvern landmark, Northbrook House. The service is tailored to provide young people in the area better access to personalised and youth friendly support services.

The new headspace site officially opens its doors today to young people aged 12-25 and their families offering early intervention mental health services in addition to physical and sexual health, alcohol and other drug (AOD) and work and study support.

Malvern is part of the City of Stonnington, home to multiple schools and university campuses and approximately 20,000 young people (aged 12-25 years), which includes 3,000 currently living in low-income households.

“This new centre will deliver better health outcomes for the youth of Higgins. As a one-stop-shop for young people aged 12-25 who need help with mental health, physical health and sexual health, alcohol and other drugs or work and study support.”

Federal Member for Higgins, Dr Katie Allen said COVID-19 has taught us all how important it is to have easily accessible health support, especially for our Australian youth.

“As a doctor with four children myself I know how important it is to ensure services and support is available when needed in a young person’s life, that’s why I’m so proud that a new headspace now calls Malvern home”, she said.

“This new centre will deliver better health outcomes for the youth of Higgins. As a one-stop-shop for young people aged 12-25 who need help with mental health, physical health and sexual health, alcohol and other drugs or work and study support”.

“I couldn’t be prouder of this new facility. I encourage all local young people to connect with headspace to help you take care and stay well”, said Dr. Allen.

Funded by the Australian Government through the South Eastern Melbourne Primary Health Network (SEMPHN), the new service is being delivered by a consortium led by Access Health and Community which includes St Vincent’s Mental Health Service, JobCo, Uniting Victoria and Tasmania, Star Health, City of Stonnington and City of Boroondara .

SEMPHN’s Chief Executive Officer, Quinn Pawson said he is delighted to partner with Access Health and Community and the consortium to deliver mental health services for young people, particularly after a challenging year.

“Now more than ever, we are committed to ensuring young people and their families can access the right support services they need in an environment where they feel safe and comfortable.”

“Now more than ever, we are committed to ensuring young people and their families can access the right support services they need in an environment where they feel safe and comfortable”, he said.

Access Health and Community’s Chief Executive Officer Anna Robinson said, “Access Health and Community is excited to work alongside our consortium partners to develop headspace Malvern as a vibrant, much-needed mental health service for young people and their families.”

According to headspace’s 2020 National Youth Mental Health Survey psychological distress among young people remains high, with one-third (34 per cent) reporting high or very high levels of distress.

“We know that 75 per cent of mental illnesses develop before a person turns 25, so local youth friendly services like headspace Malvern will go a long way to ensure young people have access to the right supports, when they need it most.”

headspace CEO Jason Trethowan said the opening of headspace Malvern was crucial to offer young people in the area more avenues of support.

“The past twelve months has been very challenging for many young people. We know that with the right support, young people can get through tough periods and back on track. This is why headspace Malvern is such an important service to help young people in the area”, he said.

“We know that 75 per cent of mental illnesses develop before a person turns 25, so local youth friendly services like headspace Malvern will go a long way to ensure young people have access to the right supports, when they need it most”.

Young people will be involved in designing, monitoring and evaluating headspace Malvern’s activities and services.

For more information on location and opening hours visit https://headspace.org.au/headspace-centres/Malvern

Welcome to SEMPHN’s brand-new website!

digital@pluralagency.com.au (Plural Agency) — Sun, 27 Mar 2022 03:30:16 GMT

It’s all the same information you know and love, presented in a new format.

Get to know the Access & Referral page, the one-stop-shop for referring to SEMPHN-funded services, including mental health and alcohol and other drug treatment services. The Access & Referral team can also help providers and community members find other appropriate services to their needs.

Education and Events is the place for health professionals to discover professional development opportunities and online learning modules or resources.

Dive into the News and Opportunities section to discover the latest news, jobs and commissioning updates.

Our Services and Resources pages are filled with a large variety of topics to support health professionals to find practical information and relevant services for themselves or their patients.

The SEMPHN pathways pages contain over 240 clinical or referral pathways which can be easily searched through our filter function.

Get to know more about SEMPHN in the About Us section. Meet our people, including our Boards, Councils and the Executive Leadership Team. This is also a great place to contact us, or read more about commissioning and our publications.

The Community section houses information aimed directly at community members who are interested in SEMPHN’s funded health services, or want to learn more about certain topics.

Feel free to browse and familiarize yourself with the new and improved SEMPHN website!

State-funded GP Respiratory clinics to play a critical role in reducing the demand on hospitals

digital@pluralagency.com.au (Plural Agency) — Fri, 25 Mar 2022 00:48:31 GMT

Five GP-led Respiratory Clinics (GPRC) are now operating across south east Melbourne as part of the Victorian Government’s $23 million investment to help reduce the burden on hospitals as they face predicted surges in COVID-19 and influenza cases.

The clinics, based in Cranbourne , Narre Warren South , Officer , Mentone and Dandenong will support people of all ages, children and adults with respiratory symptoms (which includes COVID-19 Testing), to access a comprehensive respiratory assessment and management of their illnesses.

Services are available for those with or without a Medicare card, at no cost to the patient, with extended hours available and on weekends.

While some general practitioners or health professionals may choose to refer to these clinics, a referral to access the service is not essential.

The GP-run respiratory clinics complement four federally funded GP respiratory clinics already in operation in Port Melbourne, Prahran, Carrum Downs and Rosebud.

Casey Respiratory Clinic

33-34 Mack Rd, Narre Warren South
(03) 6108 2471
7 am – 9 pm Mon-Sat and 9 am – 5 pm Sunday
Bookings can be made here .

Dandenong Respiratory Clinic

82 Stud Road, Dandenong
(03) 9794 5055
8.30 am – 10 pm weekdays, 9 am – 9 pm Saturday, 10 am – 9 pm Sunday
Bookings can be made here .

Cranbourne Respiratory Clinic

32 Remount Way, Cranbourne
Phone: 8375 8888
7 am – 10 pm weekdays, 8 am – 10 pm weekends & public holidays
Bookings can be made here .

Officer Respiratory Clinic

4 Cardinia Road, Officer
Phone: 9108 0220
8 am – 5 pm weekdays, 8 am – 1 pm Saturday, closed Sunday
Bookings can be made here .

Mentone Respiratory Clinic

25/171 Nepean Hwy, Mentone
Phone: 0413 038 995
7 am – 11 pm weekdays, 7 am – 9 pm weekends
Bookings can be made here .

Providing mental health support in vastly diverse populations across the south east of Melbourne

digital@pluralagency.com.au (Plural Agency) — Thu, 24 Mar 2022 01:12:43 GMT

During Cultural Diversity Week as well as Harmony Week, we are honouring and celebrating the Culturally and Linguistically Diverse communities that make up our region and Victoria.

Multiculturalism is a core part of the Victorian identity, our character, and our way of life. As home to people from all corners of the world, south east Melbourne is a place where anyone can contribute and belong.

Like many other communities, our multicultural communities sometimes face obstacles like language barriers, cultural taboos, and other challenges when it comes to practising and maintaining self-care and wellbeing. We know that access to the right support, delivered with culture and language in mind, is essential to its effectiveness.

News of recent events overseas could resurface trauma from past experiences like war, conflict and forced migration. A recently impacted community and one that could be at risk of re-experiencing trauma are the Afghan community.

We have worked closely with Afghan community leaders to learn about the challenges faced by their community when practising and maintaining self-care and wellbeing during this challenging time. Working in collaboration with Better Place Australia , the Southern Migrant and Refugee Centre and Afghan Community leaders we have co-designed a short series of videos for the Afghan community with tips on how to implement self-care and maintain good habits. Videos are spoken in Dari and subtitled in English.

Through initiatives and partnerships like these, SEMPHN continues to work towards addressing the National Suicide Prevention Strategy 2015 and the Victorian Suicide Prevention Framework 2016-25 . We have worked with several organisations and community groups over the past few years and continue to collaborate with organisations including the Victorian Department of Health , other Victorian Primary Health Networks, Black Dog Institute , Cities of Greater Dandenong , Casey , and Cardinia Shire Council .

Stories from local health services and community members

digital@pluralagency.com.au (Plural Agency) — Thu, 03 Feb 2022 05:34:52 GMT

Have you read SEMPHN's Annual Report yet?

The report reflects on our greatest achievements and success stories with a focus on our response to the COVID-19 pandemic as we continued to lead innovative approaches to deliver health care across south eastern Melbourne.

Thank you to all our partners, especially general practices, for working with us during this time. We encourage you to share it with your colleagues.

To view the Annual Report visit annualreport2021.semphn.org.au

Introducing SEMPHN’s CEO: Quinn Pawson

digital@pluralagency.com.au (Plural Agency) — Thu, 03 Feb 2022 05:16:08 GMT

The SEMPHN Board and Staff welcomed Quinn Pawson as SEMPHN’s new Chief Executive Officer on 31 January 2022.

Quinn is an experienced CEO and executive in the not for profit sector with a strong track record in successfully leading innovation, cultural transformation, mergers and reorganisations. He is adept at maximising results and services for individuals, families and communities disadvantaged by mental health, homelessness, poverty, and family violence.

Quinn’s most recent role was Chief Executive Officer at VincentCare Victoria and VincentCare Community Housing. He has also held executive roles at Uniting Vic/Tas, Prahran Mission and Relationships Australia.

Quinn is focused on creating a safe, inclusive, and supporting culture with a leadership style that engages the heart, head and soul of the organisation. He is passionate about growing and aligning values, people, culture, systems and financial capital in service of an organisation’s purpose.

Get to know other key figures at SEMPHN, including our Board, Community and Clinical Council members and our Executive Leadership Team on the ‘About Us’ page.

semphn

Medication Assisted Treatment for Opioid Dependence (MATOD) clinical observation opportunity

SEMPHN is excited to offer a new paid opportunity for accredited practitioners wanting to gain real-world experience in Medication Assisted Treatment of Opioid Dependence (MATOD).

Updated mental health training standards for GPs

Homebound vaccination program extended to Flu

From April 2026, SEMPHN’s Vulnerable Peoples Homebound Vaccination Program can receive referrals for Flu vaccination only, to eligible homebound individuals. Previously, the Flu vaccination was not available on its own.

New statewide referral criteria for referrals to lung nodule services are now in effect

Statewide referral criteria is now in effect for adult lung nodule conditions in public hospitals.

National Advance Care Planning Week

National Advance Care Planning Week is 16 March – 22 March. Advance Care Planning (ACP) is the process of planning for the care someone would (or would not) like to receive in the event of serious illness, when they are unable to communicate their preferences, or at the end of their life.

SEMPHN achieves globally recognised information security accreditation

South Eastern Melbourne Primary Health Network (SEMPHN) has achieved ISO 27001 certification, demonstrating our commitment to robust risk management, strong data protection, and continuous improvement of our information security systems.

New Carnegie Medicare Urgent Care Clinic expanding access to timely, bulk-billed care

Walk-in service already supporting local patients and helping reduce emergency department demand

Supporting timely care and reducing ED demand

Treating common urgent conditions

Complementing general practice

When to visit a Medicare Urgent Care Clinic

New group program supporting mental health and well-being management

My Way to Well-being is a free, six-week group program funded by SEMPHN and delivered by Better Place Australia, supporting participants with evidence-based strategies to enrich their mental health and wellbeing. ﻿

These groups aim to build an understanding of:

My Way to-Well-being is available to those who:

Session details:

SEMPHN Health Needs Assessment updated with latest 2025 data

South Eastern Melbourne Primary Health Network’s (SEMPHN’s) 2025–2028 Health Needs Assessment has been updated with the latest data.

An extra pair of hands: Supporting GPs to care for patients with complex needs

Funded by South Eastern Melbourne Primary Health Network (SEMPHN), Silverchain’s Care Coordination Support Service (CCSS) is supporting general practices across south east Melbourne to better care for patients with chronic and complex needs.

“Silverchain’s input has played a bigger role in our clinic. Many patients appreciate the support they’ve received. The team communicates well, follows up on referrals, and requests further information when needed,” she said.

“Patients with serious alcohol problems or mental health crises who were admitted to hospital have been able to remain in the community with Silverchain’s ongoing support. This has minimised repeat hospitalisations,” Dr Gowri said.

“We see regular patients without Medicare at no cost, especially those who’ve temporarily lost access. It’s our commitment to community care,” she said.

“They’re grateful for the support and help, but relapse is common and long-term change is hard. We give them every chance to improve, even if some struggle repeatedly,” Dr Gowri said.

“There’s a standard referral letter. Silverchain contacts the patient and follows up with the clinic if more information is needed. It couldn’t be easier,” Dr Gowri said.

Improved access to multicultural services and support in Casey and Greater Dandenong

South Eastern Melbourne Primary Health Network (SEMPHN) is pleased to announce the successful general practices in the delivery of the Multicultural Access Program across the Local Government Areas (LGAs) of Casey and Greater Dandenong.

Congratulations to the following general practices:

First BBPIP payments now processed and national Bulk Billing campaign launched

First Bulk Billing Practice Incentive Program payments now processed

Steps to investigate missing payments:

New ‘Bulk Billing for all Australians’ national campaign launched

The national campaign includes:

Funding boost strengthens capacity at Dandenong Medicare Urgent Care Clinic

Workforce uplift responds to sustained demand at a high-throughput urgent care service

Celebrating innovation in general practice: Nurse Practitioner model improving access to care

What is a Nurse Practitioner?

A journey shaped by experience and support

“I wanted greater autonomy in patient care and the ability to follow patients through their entire journey,” Nicole said. “I really enjoy clinical decision-making, and becoming a Nurse Practitioner felt like a natural progression that allowed me to use my experience in a broader way.”

“It was a demanding process and required strong time management and resilience,” Nicole said. “But it was also incredibly rewarding, and having support from colleagues and mentors made a big difference.”

“We’ve always been very supportive of our nurses pursuing further training,” Vanessa said. “When Nicole completed her Nurse Practitioner training, we could immediately see how this role could help patients get appointments sooner and reduce pressure on GP appointments.”

“This has really helped with workflow,” Vanessa said. “It supports the doctors rather than taking work away from them, and it’s helped improve work–life balance across the team.”

“Patients already feel comfortable with the nurses here,” she said. “Being able to see a Nurse Practitioner they know, who understands their history, has worked really well. It keeps care within the practice and supports continuity with their GP.”

Supporting general practice

“We’re always happy to celebrate practices that support their workforce to grow. Models like this demonstrate how general practice can strengthen capacity, improve access to care and continue to meet the needs of their communities.”

Looking ahead

“It’s not an easy path, but it is a rewarding one,” she said. “Staying patient-focused and remembering why you started the journey really helps.”

New regulatory guidance for allied health professionals in aged care

Updated guidance for allied health professionals working in aged care is now available

Free Anger Management for Women Program

Relationship Matters is running a free program for women experiencing challenges with anger management.

Farewelling Florence and looking ahead to the next phase of digital care

Acknowledging a decade of digital health impact as SEMPHN prepares for what’s next

Bulk Billing Practice Incentive Program payments

Managing Bulk Billing Practice Incentive Program (BBPIP) participation is now easier with Services Australia’s eligibility assessments.

Bulk Billing Practice Incentive Program resource

Other useful links

Support for vulnerable Australians seeking access to aged care services extended

Care finder, a free service designed to help vulnerable older people who have limited supports, has been extended for another 3 years.

Extended hours in general practice in selected LGAs

SEMPHN is pleased to announce that 11 general practices across the Local Government Areas (LGAs) of Frankston, Casey, Cardinia, Mornington Peninsula and Greater Dandenong will be extending their opening hours to provide face-to-face on-site services in the after hours period​​​.​

Medicare Mental Health

The Medicare Mental Health phone service provides free mental health, social and emotional wellbeing support for anyone in Australia.

Enhanced specialised care for endometriosis and pelvic pain

South Eastern Melbourne Primary Health Network (SEMPHN) is pleased to announce a new Endometriosis and Pelvic Pain Clinic (EPPC) will be established in south east Melbourne.

Four new Medicare Urgent Care Clinics now open across south east Melbourne

New clinics strengthen access to urgent, GP-led care as SEMPHN welcomes four additional Medicare UCCs.

First Bulk Billing Practice Incentive Program incentive payment coming January 2026

If your practice is registered and meets Bulk Billing Practice Incentive Program (BBPIP) requirements, you will receive your first incentive payment in January 2026.

PHN Cooperative welcomes review recommendations to strengthen Primary Health Networks and mental health care

The PHN Cooperative today welcomed the findings and recommendations of the Department of Health, Disability and Ageing’s Review of the PHN Business Model and Mental Health Flexible Funding Stream , conducted by Boston Consulting Group.

Key recommendations embraced by the PHN Cooperative

Commitment to communities

My Way to Well-being is a free, six-week group program funded by SEMPHN and delivered by Better Place Australia, supporting participants with evidence-based strategies to enrich their mental health and wellbeing.

SEMPHN is pleased to announce that 11 general practices across the Local Government Areas (LGAs) of Frankston, Casey, Cardinia, Mornington Peninsula and Greater Dandenong will be extending their opening hours to provide face-to-face on-site services in the after hours period.

Changes to the Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS) will take effect from this Saturday, 1 November 2025. Below is an overview of what’s changing, key considerations for your practice, and helpful resources to support your preparation.