Message From The CEO

Message from the CEO-

The GEGPN has gone from strength to strength and we continue to build upon relationships with key stakeholders and community members. The Division has successfully extended its activities over this reporting period and continues to solidly deliver services and programs with a focus on chronic disease mental health and ATSI clients.

The GEGPN promotes and supports general practice in providing best practice, quality, recall reminder systems, data extraction, IM/IT and cycle of care for the consumer. The GEGPN has placed a lot of emphasis on promoting access to the ATSI population who do not readily access primary health care services or programs.

In terms of governance, the Board during this period are preparing to expand its current skills matrix to include an Allied Health worker position. It is expected that this position will increase the representation and knowledge the Board receive.
   
The GEGPN has increased its clinical service capacity associated with funding received from COAG-Rural and Remote mental health services and MSAOP (Rural Health West) . This has seen a valuable primary health care service being delivered to areas in need that haven't received one in the past. There still remain many communities who do not receive the needed/necessary amount of primary health care services - it is hoped that with new projects being funded throughout the region that these communities will be penetrated with Primary health care services.
  
A substantial number of episodes of care were delivered to Goldfields residents many as remote community episodes. In addition, group sessions covering health promotion and prevention were also delivered.
  
The funding and recruitment for an IM/IT position has enabled practices to receive much needed assistance and has allowed the GEGPN to promote and support those interested or using the SEHR. Whilst the uptake of the SEHR has been slower than desired, 5 staff have been trained as `train the trainer'. All staff will be able to assist stakeholders in their questions and queries. Intensive training will be supplied to practices and members by the IM/IT manager.
  
The GEGPN achieved ISO accreditation with flying colours.  There was no non-conformances or continuous improvements noted.  1 observation was recorded relating to the Web page which has been rectified.  The Network is now accredited for a further 3 years.

A staff satisfaction survey was conducted in this reporting period - results showed a high level of satisfaction working at the GEGPN and the culture within the work place.  This is a credit to the Board and staff at the GEGPN and the great professional relationships they have developed over the years, and as such staff retention has remained high.

The next big topic is around the issue of Medicare Locals (Primary Health Care Organisations).  This has been circling for a number of years and over the past 6 – 8 months has really progressed ahead in leaps and bounds.  The GEGPN is currently in the process of applying (in collaboration with the Pilbara GP Network and the Midwest GP Network) to develop a Medicare Local.  The GEGPN will continue to provide the services it currently does.  Applications close on the 5th April 2011 so stayed tuned for updates.  Should you wish to discuss this (or anything else) please don’t hesitate to contact the network on our new number 08 9080 0400.

Thanks for your time

Helen Robinson
CEO
GEGPN

The Goldfields Esperance GP Network's 2010-11 Annual Financial Report is available for all members.  If you would like a copy, please contact Lana Dibello on This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or (08) 9080 0400.