The Community Health and Wellbeing Survey will inform our 2024 Health Needs Assessment, which will identify areas for improvement, influence health priorities and help ensure that local healthcare services are aligned with our region’s health needs.

As one of 31 Primary Health Networks (PHNs) nationally, we receive grants from the Federal Government to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of primary healthcare services. We do this by supporting local GPs and other primary healthcare providers to deliver high quality care, establishing and funding non-hospital healthcare services in the community, and improving the local healthcare journey for patients as they move from one health system to another.

We play a vital role in improving local healthcare collaboration and the Survey will also provide insights into where healthcare coordination could be enhanced. We work closely with general practices, other health professionals, hospitals and aged care to better link patients to the services they need. Local healthcare collaboration and co-ordination is crucial in making a difference in the overall health and wellbeing of our community, from access to services, to improving their journey in the healthcare system.

The survey focuses on key areas such as access to health services, mental health support and the management of long-term health conditions. Feedback and insights will provide us with a wealth of information about local residents’ first-hand health experiences, including where service gaps exist.

We encourage all community members to complete the survey and share this opportunity with your friends, family and colleagues. It takes approximately 20 minutes to complete and will close on 20 October 2024. The Survey can be completed on our website. All responses are completely confidential and participants who complete the Survey can also enter a draw to win one of five $100 gift cards.

We want to hear from a broad spectrum of local residents to ensure the results capture our community's diversity and helps us understand the unique needs of those living within our region. By participating,  you will not only contribute towards future health planning but also help improve the quality of health services in our region.