Diversity in Divisions

Divisions of General Practice are regionally based, independent entities designed to strengthen the capacity of general practice to deliver primary health care services to the Australian population. Divisions operate within defined catchment areas, that are distinguished by population size and characteristics, GP and general practice numbers, and vary widely in terms of focus, roles, membership and management structures (Commonwealth Department of Health and Family Services, 1998).

Data from the Annual Survey of Divisions support this observed variability within the Network. In 2006-07, the largest Division, located in Queensland, had 599 099 people in its catchment, while the smallest, in New South Wales, had a population of 15 723. Kimberly Division ( Western Australia ) recorded 50% Indigenous population, compared with the national average of 4%. Division boards ranged between four and 14 members; 38% were comprised exclusively of GPs while the remainder drew non-GP board members from a range of sources. The figure provided shows how Divisions span our broad continent. On a national scale, 45% of Divisions service metropolitan areas, while the remaining are distributed across regional zones of greater or lesser remoteness, with attendant demographic and workforce issues to consider.

In many respects the diversity of Divisions can be considered a strength, as it reflects their connectedness with local needs and issues; however, some drawbacks have been identified. For example, realistic expectations about what individual Divisions can achieve must give due consideration to key demographic factors, the size of the Division, supporting infrastructure and health services, and the health status of populations (Ungerer, 2004). Consequently, to promote greater efficiency and effectiveness within the Network, the Australian Government has encouraged Divisions to amalgamate where possible. Recognising an opportunity to strengthen the Network, three amalgamations have occurred since 2005 in Queensland, Western Australia and New South Wales.