Primary Health Networks (PHNs) have been established with the key objective of increasing the efficiency and effectiveness of primary care services for patients, particularly those at risk of poor health outcomes. Their aim is to improve coordination of care and ensure patients receive the right care, in the right place, at the right time, as well as to undertake population health planning to identify and address local needs. NQPHN is currently seeking EOIs from clinicians located in the Mackay, Townsville, Cairns, and the Cape and Torres regions to participate in the NQPHN Primary Care Commissioning Panel (PCCP). The purpose of the PCCP is to ensure that practical recommendations and advice from a clinical perspective are included as part of NQPHN’s commissioning activity and the development of new models of care, investment, and to progress outcomes in accordance with the strategic intent of NQPHN. NQPHN is seeking clinicians from the following fields:

• general practitioners (must be registered with AHPRA, currently in clinical practice)
• allied health professionals (must be registered with AHPRA, currently in clinical practice within a primary care setting)
• pharmacists (must be registered with Pharmacy Board/AHPRA, currently in clinical practice)
• nurse practitioners
• Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Workers in General Practice or in Aboriginal Medical Services (must be registered with AHPRA and actively practicing)
• practice nurses (must be registered with AHPRA and actively practicing)
• practice managers.

Areas of interest and expertise:

• chronic disease management
• mental health and alcohol and other drugs
• child and maternal health
• Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health
• older persons health
• dementia and palliative care
• after hours care
• public health/determinants of health
• other special interest areas (Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) communities, LGBTQI+, young people, and vulnerable peoples).

NQPHN will convene a PCCP as required by NQPHN as per the Department of Health and Aged Care funding directives and informed by the NQPHN Strategic Plan and Health Needs Assessment (HNA). Meetings may be delivered in Mackay, Townsville, and/or Cairns face to face and/or via videoconference. Members of the NQPHN PCCP who are engaged to contribute to design and development processes will be eligible for remuneration for their contribution and other expenses will be reimbursed (e.g., travel, accommodation). These roles provide an excellent opportunity to help shape the delivery of primary health care in North Queensland.

Selection criteria

• The ability to make recommendations on clinical matters, aligned with commissioning priorities and with an understanding of the local primary care context.
• Must be registered with AHPRA, or currently in clinical practice within a primary care setting.
• The ability to assess complex primary care issues and suggest appropriate strategies.
• The ability to promote a culture that implements best practice based on evidence.
• The ability to consider the diverse needs of the North Queensland community.
• Demonstrated knowledge and experience working in primary care in North Queensland.

To apply

• Please submit a cover letter (a maximum of two pages) specifying:
  • the region you represent (Mackay, Townsville, Cairns, Cape and Torres)
  • your professional experience
  • your area of interest
  • the contribution you believe you can make to the PCCP based on the selection criteria above.
• Email your application marked NQPHN PCCP EOI Confidential to partnerships@nqphn.com.au.