Better Access To Services: A Policy and Operational Framework

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Overview

Better Access to Services: A Policy and Operational Framework (sometimes called “BATS”) is one of the key documents which describes the reasons why service coordination is being undertaken, the principles that guide service coordination as well as the way to improve service coordination in Victoria.

It provides a guide to achieving better coordination of services as part of the Primary Care Partnership Strategy. The Better Access to Services framework supports agencies to work together so that, from the consumer’s perspective, services appear integrated and are easier to access and navigate.

Better Access to Services describes the underpinning principles of service coordination activities:

• A central focus on consumers
• Partnerships and collaboration
• The social model of health
• Competent staff
• A duty of care
• Protection of consumer information
• Engagement of other sectors

The Better Access to Services framework gives a basis for service managers and practitioners to work together through Primary Care partner ships consistent practices and define roles and responsibilities regarding consumers they have in common. Wherever possible, the Better Access to Services framework provides a foundation for common approaches across the State but also enables Primary Care Partnerships to develop local solutions where these are more appropriate.

The Better Access to Services framework progresses State-wide consistency in practice and a common language across Primary Care Partnerships by defining and describing the range of processes that currently exist within the health care system:

• Initial contact
• Initial needs identification
• Service specific assessment
• Specialist assessment
• Comprehensive assessment
• Care planning

Better Access to Services was developed in tandem with the Information Management Strategic Directions Paper on the understanding that effective information management is essential for achieving Better Access to Services and neither can be considered in isolation.

Contact

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Better Access To Services: A Policy and Operational Framework (907kb, pdf)

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