Systems change in Australian general practice--early impact of the National Primary Care Collaboratives

The capacity to translate research findings into clinical practice is a core skill for general practice registrars if we are to bridge the gap between evidence and practice, thus improving quality of care.

The National Primary Care Collaboratives approach is described as a way of improving health outcomes through systems change, more closely linking local practice with structures which have been proved to be effective elsewhere. The opportunity for general practice registrars to learn from and be involved in this approach is discussed.

Competencies in systems based approaches and practice based learning are part of modern practice and should be embedded within the revised Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (the RACGP) curriculum. The National Primary Care Collaboratives Program is well placed to assist in the acquisition of these competencies.