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A Quality Framework for Australian General Practice

A quality framework is a tool to facilitate the systematic analysis of the general practice environment in terms of the quality of care - current status and activities for enhancement, barriers to achievement, and initiatives for future improvement.

Background paper

The background paper discusses key ideas in quality and takes stock of the quality frameworks currently used in health care and general practice. This document supports the development of an indicative quality framework in consultation with a Quality in General Practice Committee and other key stakeholders.

This paper is not exhaustive. The intention is to provide a descriptive "snapshot-in-time" and to draw attention to some of the key issues that could impact on quality in general practice. The report is intended to promote discussion, rather than being a definitive statement.

Companion guide

The companion guide provides a detailed description of the quality framework and examples for using the framework to improve quality in general practice.

Gap analysis

The gap analysis - advice on priorities and targets to fill identified gaps in quality in general practice - has been developed by the RACGP in consultation with the Quality in General Practice Committee. It draws heavily on the barriers that affect quality in general practice identified in the background paper and through stakeholder consultations.

Using the Quality Framework

The Quality Framework is a dynamic tool that is useful in a range of settings and in a number of ways. We have used it to review the success of general practice immunisation programs, to reflect on general practice mental health and to think through services that we could offer in a small rural community. However the Framework is very flexible. If you have used the Quality Framework, we would like to hear from you. Was it useful? Could it be improved?

If you would like to use it, but are not sure how, contact us and we'll talk you through an approach. Contact us at qualitycare@racgp.org.au

Publication Date: 22 March 2006
Authorised By: NSC - Quality Care and Research