Dr Peter Sherwen coordinates a systematic program to improve communication between Epworth HealthCare and its referring general practitioners.
The program covers areas including:
- GP involvement in meetings, case conferences and discharge planning by phone or hospital visit
- Monthly interactive educational programs
- An expansion of the educational program to include on-site sessions at several large suburban General Practices
- Appointment of a facilitator to assist GPs in making rapid referrals to consultants
- Development of a facilitation phone line to assist GPs in finding information about inpatients
Epworth HealthCare believes that addressing these issues will not only benefit GPs, but also will further enhance the excellent care that patients currently receive.
The role of the GP Facilitator
The role as GP Facilitator is to help strengthen the relationship between Epworth HealthCare and the GP community. The objective of the GP Facilitation program is to develop an efficient means of recording patient clinical information and transferring it to relevant health care professionals.
As part of the GP program monthly CPD education evenings are provided to cater for the education needs of GPs.
The role also provides GPs with a successful means of sourcing a specialist consultant. Our GP Facilitator has a comprehensive knowledge of Epworth HealthCare’s services and quick access to the appropriate consultant. The GP Facilitator has a specialist listing of around 300 consultants, in a very wide range of specialties. The service saves your precious time, and enables access to this wide range of consultants.
The facilitation line operates Monday to Friday from 8.30am - 4.30pm.
GPs can access this important service by phoning 03 9426 8504.