The Hunter New England and Central Coast Primary Health Network (HNECC PHN) has successfully secured a grant under the Federal Government’s Innovative Models of Care (IMOC) Program, which will see the establishment of a Health Hub in Glen Innes.
The IMOC Program is to pilot and trial new multidisciplinary primary care models, designed to reduce chronic workforce shortages and improve patient access.
The PHN has identified Glen Innes as the preferred site and will work collaboratively with primary health care professionals and the community of Glen Innes to design a community-led, multidisciplinary team (MDT) Health Hub.
HNECC PHN Chief Executive Officer, Richard Nankervis said the Health Hub brings much needed multi-disciplinary primary health care services to Glen Innes, providing the community with local and timely access to the care they need.
“The Glen Innes Health Hub is the product of extensive and ongoing collaboration between the Hunter New England and Central Coast Primary Health Network, the Hunter New England Local Health District, University of New England, Glen Innes Council, health practitioners and the community, building a partnership that identifies and meets the needs of the community.” said Mr Nankervis.
“Through this Health Hub we hope to attract more students on rural placements, showcasing the town and career opportunities, and potentially seeing these students choosing to make their new homes in the regions, thus bolstering the rural workforce.”
The IMOC pilot funding is a four-year pilot program, that is funded to June 2027. The MDT service will include a Care Navigation role for patients as well as support for Allied Health and nursing student placements. The program will benefit existing providers in addition to providing services through the Health Hub.
Stakeholder and community consultation will take place throughout February and March with plans for the Hub to be operational by the end of this financial year.