Are general practice networks 'ready' for clinical data management?

Australian general practice networks (GPN) are required to report on national performance indicators under the Australian Government Department of Health and Ageing's National Quality Performance System (NQPS).

To investigate the extent to which Victorian GPN are 'ready' to manage clinical data from general practice for reporting under the NQPS.

A qualitative study using semistructured interviews from a purposive sample of chief executive officers from urban and rural Victorian GPN included those either participating or not participating in the Australian Primary Care Collaboratives Program.

Australian Primary Care Collaborative experienced DGP have developed the range of skills and knowledge to undertake clinical data management for quality improvement and NQPS reporting. Trust by local general practices for the provision of clinical data has been developed through the demonstration of benefits to practices and improved patient health. General practice networks without Australian Primary Care Collaborative experience have a range of concerns about clinical data management for NQPS reporting, such as gaining cooperation from their practices, handling privacy issues and finding appropriately skilled staff.

Victorian GPN involved in the Australian Primary Care Collaborative appear more 'ready' than GPN without this experience to undertake clinical data management for reporting purposes on the national performance indicators under the NQPS.