Nine general practices in North Queensland have received grants to help enhance chronic condition management and deliver better team-based patient care.  

The Chronic Conditions Primary Care Pilot Programs is part of Northern Queensland Primary Health Network’s (NQPHN’s) ongoing commitment to assist general practices with reform readiness, while improving health outcomes for people across the region.  

NQPHN is pleased to announce the successful providers in the greater Cairns, Townsville, and Mackay regions, including:  

NQPHN Chief Executive Officer Sean Rooney said programs were a pivotal initiative aimed at enhancing chronic condition management within primary care settings, including shared appointments, care coordination, social prescribing, and self-management support. 

“This initiative provides grant funding that can pay for services delivered by nursing or allied health working closely with a GP to target people with a diagnosed chronic condition,” Mr Rooney said. 

“Each practice has developed a specific approach that targets a group identified through their local data as needing extra support.” 

Mr Rooney said the programs and grant funding would also help address workforce challenges. 

“Many of the successful practices are in a designated thin market, which refers to areas where access to healthcare services and health professionals are limited,” he said. 

“NQPHN is using a range of initiatives to support practices to deliver quality care and overcome workforce challenges. 

“The programs are also designed to help address the current burden of chronic diseases, while preparing practices for future healthcare reforms.” 

The Chronic Conditions Primary Care Pilot Programs is an initiative under NQPHN’s five-year Chronic Conditions Strategy developed in 2022-2023 in consultation with stakeholders.