Quality improvement for general practice

Quality improvement (QI) programs align with Australia’s Primary Health Care 10 Year Plan 2022–2032 and ensure that practices are moving towards high performing primary care and meeting the requirements of the Quality Improvement module for Accreditation under the RACGP 5th Edition Standards for general practices, along with requirements of the Practice Incentives Program or PIP QI Incentive.

Why undertake quality improvement?

Thomas Bodenheimer’s model – 10 Building Blocks of High-Performing Primary Care – is widely regarded as the template for general practices seeking to provide high-quality care. The foundational building blocks of engaged leadership and data-driven improvement are well-established precepts of quality improvement.

The benefits of engaging in QI activities include:

  • a strong practice team that welcomes contribution from all staff
  • a culture of collaboration and continuous quality improvement
  • a safe and comprehensive healthcare experience for patients
  • improved health outcomes for patients
  • improved workflows, systems and business performance
  • support to meet the requirements for PIP QI and accreditation
  • a practice that is prepared for future models of care.

To learn more watch the following videos:

Practice Incentives Program (PIP) – Quality Improvement (QI) Incentive and eligibility

The PIP QI Incentive is designed for general practices to encourage changes that are relevant to patient populations. It focuses on improving patient outcomes and access to care while also developing a more effective business.

General practices seeking to qualify for the incentive will require a PIP Identifier, provided through Services Australia which administers the payment on behalf of the Australia Department of Health and Aged Care. Practices will also be required to work with Murray PHN to undertake the collection, submission and review of a de-identified set of data and undertake quality improvement activities.

Practices can focus QI activities that are identified through practice data, which may include the 10 Quality Improvement Measures listed below. Practices will be required to show evidence of quality improvement activities.

To learn more watch the following videos: 
Or access resources:

For more information

Last Update: October 16th, 2024

Murray PHN acknowledges its catchment crosses over many unceded First Nations Countries, following the Dhelkunya Yaluk (Healing River).

We pay our respects and give thanks to the Ancestors, Elders and Young people for their nurturing, protection and caregiving of these sacred lands and waterways, acknowledging their continuing cultural, spiritual and educational practices.

We are grateful for the sharing of Country and the renewal that Country gives us. We acknowledge and express our sorrow that this sharing has come at a personal, spiritual and cultural cost to the wellbeing of First Nations peoples. We commit to addressing the injustices of colonisation across our catchment, and to listening to the wisdom of First Nations communities who hold the knowledge to enable healing. We extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.