North Western Melbourne Primary Health Network (NWMPHN) is seeking to recruit 10 general practices to help improve patient eye health through increasing engagement with local optometrists and ophthalmologists.
$7,000 (exc GST) is available for each participating practice.
Expressions of interest close 3pm, Tuesday 20 December 2022.
Background
Many eye conditions are preventable if detected or treated early. Regular eye examinations are an effective measure for identifying common problems.
The COVID-19 pandemic caused optometry closures, leading people to defer eye health checks, resulting in an increase in preventable problems. The pandemic also disproportionately impacted vulnerable patients with, or at risk of, chronic conditions.
Primary health networks across Victoria are recruiting general practices to participate in a quality improvement (QI) program to boost the eye health of their populations. Using a whole-of-practice approach, participants will focus on increasing engagement with local optometrists and ophthalmologists.
NWMPHN is providing grant funding for 10 general practices in its catchment area.
Funding of $7,000 (exc GST) will be available to accredited practices that complete all aspects of the QI program, including reporting and evaluation.
Target groups for eye-health screening are patients with any of these risk factors:
- diabetes
- smoking
- hypertension
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander heritage
- aged at least 40
- culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) background
Activity purpose and term
The project will run from February to December 2023. Participants will be supported by a NWMPHN program officer.
The project will provide a comprehensive approach to eye health prevention, including education and general practice support. Assistance will be provided to identify at-risk patients. There will be an emphasis on embedding referral pathways to strengthen clinical relationships with eye health professionals.
How to apply
Applicants must complete and return the Application Form (.docx) and email it with supporting documentation to the NWMPHN Primary Care Team, primarycare@nwmphn.org.au. Please direct all queries to primarycare@nwmphn.org.au.
Applications close at 3pm (AEDT) on Tuesday 20 December 2022.
