In late 2022, our team surveyed more than 500 General Practitioners (GPs), Allied Health Professionals (AHPs), Commissioned Service Providers (CSPs) and Residential Aged Care Facilities (RACFs) in Western Sydney. As the Western Sydney Primary Health Network, we rely on annual surveys to gain insights and identify opportunities related to health services in our region. The information we receive helps us develop initiatives that support primary care staff in delivering high quality, patient-centred care. This is your opportunity to have your say and help influence health care in Western Sydney.
What Does the Survey Cover?
In our survey, you will be asked about a range of topics, for example the awareness of available services (such as mental health services and facilitators), supporting health needs within different cultural groups and My Health Record.
The purpose of the questions is to not only measure knowledge of available services and initiatives within our local health region, but also to ensure that as a team we can best enable and connect health care. This year, there are four different surveys available to cater to GPs, AHPs, RACF managers and CSPs.
What's Been Implemented Since Last Year's Survey?
The past twelve months have been a great step towards achieving a healthier Western Sydney. We have continued to provide timely updates around COVID-19, commissioned services, and training opportunities in Western Sydney. In our survey, 60% of respondents gave our COVID-19 communications and support a ‘high’ or ‘very high’ rating.
AHPs also reported that remote consultations with ageing patients have increased, with 51% of AHPs now using telephone consultations without challenges. When asked about the impact of being a WentWest provider, 80% of CSPs reported that being a WentWest provider has improved service performance, networking, and sector capacity.
Excitingly, we were able to secure funding for a permanent Head to Health Adult Mental Health Centre in Parramatta. Doors opened in July 2023, and the site was custom-built and co-designed with community. In addition, we were also able to commission the GP Psychiatry Support Line to connect local GPs directly to psychiatrists to better cater to mental health needs in our community.
We have continued supporting RACFs in Western Sydney, with 81% of respondents rating our support as ‘high’ or ‘very high’. We launched a series of grant opportunities available to all eligible RACFs in the Western Sydney area, with grant funding being offered to 45 RACFs upon application.
For a summary of what we learned from our 2022 Needs Survey, a short four-page report is available below.
Have Your Say
Share your thoughts by taking part in this year’s survey and help shape the future of primary care in Western Sydney.
The survey is open to all general practice staff, allied health professionals, commissioned service providers and RACF managers in Western Sydney. It is completely de-identified unless you choose otherwise.
16 November 2023