On the 11 April 2015 the Minister for Health, Sussan Ley, announced the 31 Primary Health Networks that will replace the previous 61 regional Medicare Locals to improve frontline medical and health services.
Primary Health Networks (PHNs) are designed to be “outcome focussed” with a strong emphasis on improving frontline services. The structure of the new PHNs is predominately collaborative with a number of consortiums bring together local skills and knowledge by align Local Hospital Networks, allied health providers, universities, private health insurers primary and acute care services.
In 2015-16 PHNs will be required to focus on six key priorities identified as targeted work in mental health, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health, population health, health workforce, eHealth and aged care.
Follow this link to the Department of Health’s website for a list of the 31 PHNs and further details.