A comprehensive new framework aimed at addressing a number of challenging issues facing the primary healthcare workforce has been developed by the Hunter New England and Central Coast Primary Health Network (PHN).
Some of these pressing challenges include an ageing workforce, reduced interest in general practice, maldistribution of GPs, and increasing service demand.
The Framework aims to address these issues and ensure timely, high-quality care for all residents by drawing on demographic forecasts, population growth trends, and local health needs to create a cohesive, sustainable workforce plan tailored to the region.
By prioritising sustainability and local-level solutions, it aims to support long-term improvements in primary healthcare delivery across the PHN region.
PHN CEO Richard Nankervis said the Framework reflected their commitment to enhancing equity in access to primary care services by stabilising and strengthening the healthcare workforce in the Hunter and Central Coast region.
“Achieving our vision of timely, high-quality, face-to-face or virtual primary care for every individual across the Hunter, New England, and Central Coast will require focused efforts to develop a sustainable, innovative workforce,” he said.
“This challenge is too great to tackle alone.
“It requires collaboration with key partners, including the Hunter New England and Central Coast Local Health Districts, Rural Doctors Network, local universities, and many others.
“Together, we can strategically shape the future of the primary healthcare workforce in our region.”
The Framework was developed through extensive consultation, including a project steering group, data analysis on workforce supply and demand, engagement with more than 230 regional stakeholders, and advice from an expert health workforce panel.
The Framework’s key objectives include ensuring access to a well-prepared, locally trained healthcare workforce dedicated to serving rural communities; attracting and retaining primary healthcare professionals who are motivated to live and work in our region; creating an environment that promotes job satisfaction, mental wellbeing, strong community connections, and fair remuneration; delivering innovative, multidisciplinary, and technology-enabled healthcare solutions that improve community health outcomes and securing long-term financial and operational stability for rural healthcare organisations, ensuring the ongoing delivery of essential services.
The implementation of the Framework will take place over the next five years, led by the PHN’s workforce team and supported by regional consultants.
Phase two will focus on strengthening the workforce of primary care nurses and allied health professionals.
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