Drop In Doc
We are seeking Expressions of Interest (EOI) from general practices for a primary care clinic in Penrith for people who are experiencing or at risk of homelessness.
Background
In the 2023 Federal Budget, Primary Health Networks were allocated funding to support access to primary healthcare for people experiencing or at risk of homelessness. In 2024 we undertook a needs assessment to identify the challenges faced by our region in accessing healthcare.
Funding is being provided to us from the Federal Government in early 2025 to deliver a suitable service to address the needs identified in our region. Drop In Doc will provide fee free access to essential healthcare, including general health advice, wound care, immunisations and wrap-around support through partnerships with local services. Penrith was selected for this pilot due to the high proportion of people experiencing homelessness in the area and the willingness of local services to collaborate on this initiative. The clinic will run from Penrith Police Citizen Youth Club (PCYC) at 100 Station Street, Penrith.
To support the clinical staff in meeting the complex needs of the patients, a care coordinator from a local specialist homelessness service will be engaged to support the clinic. The care coordinator will be present for the duration of the clinic and will support patients to access care. The Care Coordinator will provide a conduit to other key services (e.g. housing, mental health, pharmacy, supporting them to get a Medicare card) outside of the clinic hours.
Please note the care coordinator will be commissioned by us through a separate procurement process to this EOI.
Who Can Apply
General practices located within 3 km of Penrith CBD with an available general practitioner and practice nurse. Applicants should have an interest in supporting disadvantaged community members and the capacity to deliver services in Penrith.
What's Involved
The program service will:
- Operate one day per week for a five-hour session (four hours of patient care and one hour for team debrief / case conferencing).
- Be staffed by a general practitioner and a practice nurse from the same practice.
- Provide episodic care, general health advice, wound care and immunisations at no cost to patients.
- Collaborate with a care coordinator to offer wrap-around support and connect patients with services such as housing, mental health, and social care.
Duration of Drop In Doc
Service delivery is expected to begin in late March 2025 and will continue until June 2026.
Funding
Funding will include:
- A once-off grant for setup costs.
- Renumeration for GPs and practice nurses.
- Ongoing support for administrative expenses.
- Medical consumables.
- IT equipment if required.
Support for Clinicians
Clinicians will be supported by:
- A Care Coordinator with experience in the homlessness sector.
- Support from Wentoworth Healthcare.
How to Apply
Submit your expression of interest by completing and submitting the form below by 3 March 2025.
More Information
For any questions about this opportunity, send an email to our team.
