In planning and implementing prevention activities, a number of processes and activities will help to make it happen. One such process is good coordination. Coordination can be improved in the practice through:
- the presence or support of a facilitator (this might be provided by a PHN)38–40
- clarification of roles and responsibilities in prevention41 (Are there clear job descriptions? Are the various roles and responsibilities delineated?)
- good communication, keeping all team members informed
- setting aside sufficient time for planning, having as many team members as possible attend the practice meeting, and discussing delivery of the programs
- having a written plan that includes the goals, objectives and proposed strategies so that the process is clear and explicit.42
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Putting prevention into practice
The Putting Prevention into Practice (PPIP) program suggested that practices create a facilitator position to coordinate improving delivery of cardiovascular screening and prevention.
After undertaking a business case, one large practice recruited one of their staff with the necessary skills to a role created specifically to improve preventive care. This new facilitator convened a number of meetings, provided feedback on progress and solicited input on the various proposed approaches. GPs and PNs commented on the effectiveness of this facilitator in ensuring screening and prevention processes were coordinated and efficient.
– Ms Anne Fritz, Practice Manager, Kingston Family Practice, Brighton, South Australia
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Responding to family abuse and violence – A whole-of-practice response
Practices can arrange for a whole-of-practice meeting for an hour to discuss a case study about family abuse and violence (FAV). It can involve how FAV might present and be managed in the waiting room and by the GPs and/or PNs. It encourages all practice team members to consider these issues and support each other. It should also consider the need to find resources and places or referral, and have this information recorded in the practice database.
– Dr Libby Hindmarsh, co-author of the RACGP White Book
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