Empower yourself, be involved in the decision making of your care!
A GPMP (General Practice Management Plan) is a structured and comprehensive healthcare plan developed by a General Practitioner (GP) for patients with chronic or complex health conditions. The GPMP is part of the Chronic Disease Management (CDM) program, which aims to enhance the management and care of patients with ongoing health needs. The program is also known as the Enhanced Primary Care (EPC) program.
The GPMP is designed to provide coordinated and patient-centered care for individuals with chronic health conditions, such as diabetes, hypertension, asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), heart disease, and arthritis. It involves the GP working closely with the patient to develop a personalized plan to manage their chronic condition effectively.
Here are the key components of an Australian GPMP:
- Medical History and Diagnosis: The GP gathers relevant information about the patient’s medical history, including details about the diagnosed chronic condition(s) and any other health concerns.
- Treatment Goals: Clear and measurable objectives for managing the chronic condition, such as achieving target blood sugar levels for diabetes or improving lung function for COPD.
- Management Strategies: The GP outlines specific strategies and interventions to achieve the treatment goals. This may include medication management, lifestyle modifications, and referrals to other healthcare providers, such as allied health professionals.
- Patient Education: The GP provides education to the patient about their chronic condition, including self-care strategies, potential complications, and the importance of adhering to the treatment plan.
- Monitoring and Review: The GP specifies a schedule for regular check-ups and monitoring of the chronic condition to assess progress and adjust the management plan as needed.
- Coordination of Care: The GPMP involves effective communication and coordination between the GP and other healthcare providers involved in the patient’s care to ensure a collaborative approach.
- Shared Decision-Making: The GPMP encourages shared decision-making between the GP and the patient, taking into account the patient’s preferences, values, and goals for their healthcare.
- Billing and Rebates: Patients with a GPMP are eligible for Medicare rebates for specific allied health services as part of the Chronic Disease Management program.
The GPMP is intended to be a dynamic and flexible document that can be regularly reviewed and updated based on the patient’s progress and changing health needs. It aims to empower patients to actively manage their chronic conditions, improve health outcomes, and enhance their overall quality of life.