Talking EPC - Speech pathologists views of the enhanced primary care items four years on

Background.Allied health professionals have provided services under Enhanced Primary Care (EPC) since 2004; however, the experiences and views of AHPs about the initiative and how it has been utilised have not been well explored. Objective.We examined speech pathologists’ views and experiences under EPC. Methods.A survey of speech pathologists in private practice who provide services under EPC was undertaken. Results.Speech pathologists provide EPC services to a wide range of clients with communication and swallowing disorders. The five EPC sessions provide a ‘starting point’ for therapy for some clients, and supplement existing therapy for others. Speech pathologists expressed concern about the accessibility of the program, and its understanding and use in practice, but noted that the program can be valuable for clients who are able to negotiate the hurdles, and for themselves in terms of increased referrals and collaboration with general practitioners. Conclusions.Education around eligibility, access, and reporting requirements is needed for clients, GPs and allied health professionals in order to reduce the frustrating aspects of this program, and support its ongoing use. What is known about the topic?The Enhanced Primary Care (EPC) program relies on collaboration between general practitioners and allied health professionals, and aims to improve the management of chronic and complex conditions in the community. The experiences and views of allied health professionals (AHPs) in implementing the EPC program since 2004 are important to inform evaluation of the effectiveness, usefulness and value of the program. What does this paper add?We explored speech pathologists’ perspectives on EPC, including their experiences and views about the program. The paper informs understanding of the use of EPC in practice, for example, how sessions are provided to clients over the 12-month period, as well as how those who use it – allied health professionals – perceive the value and practicality of this program. What are the implications for practitioners?Education for GPs, clients and AHPs is needed to facilitate a more efficient and effective use of EPC. Policy makers should consider the views and experiences of AHPs when reviewing the EPC initiative, in order to understand aspects such as the accessibility of the programs for clients, and the perceived value for AHPs.