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Frequently asked questions regarding the ASD

The Annual Survey of Divisions (ASD) gathers data from all Divisions of General Practice across Australia. Information collected in the survey reflects the needs of government, the Divisions Network and researchers.

In June 2005, Divisions: the Network evolves. Report of the 2003-2004 Annual Survey of Divisions of General Practice was published by PHC RIS. It provides a detailed summary of data collected in the survey. Additional data analysis to that published in the report can also be provided by PHC RIS upon request.

In 2005, PHC RIS received 25 requests for further analysis of survey results. These requests came from individuals and organisations both within and external to the Divisions' Network.

PHC RIS takes care to ensure that information provided in confidence by Divisions is de-identified prior to release. Most data can be provided broken down by state, Rural Remote Metro category or other population groups containing five or more Divisions.

The most frequently requested data in 2005 related to demographic characteristics of Divisions; for example, number of staff, practices, or GPs in Divisions. Other data requested related to such areas as Indigenous Australian health, mental health, practice nursing, allied health professionals, direct services to patients, acute care, palliative care, collaboration, governance, Divisional Board membership and GP workforce needs.

PHC RIS aims to provide our stakeholders with the most relevant and up to date information possible and as such, the majority of these requests were answered using data from the 2003-04 ASD. Some requests used data from previous ASDs as well, in order to illustrate changes in service provision over time.

Initial analysis is currently being conducted on data from the 2004-05 ASD and PHC RIS hopes to have this data available to stakeholders within the next few months.

For further information, or to make a request, please contact the ASD team:
Miriam Keane
Ph: 08 8204 3157
E: survey.phcris@flinders.edu.au