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PHNTASConsultant Specifications

Primary Health Tasmania is seeking proposals for a summative evaluation of its rural primary health and diabetes management services, aimed at assessing their design, implementation, and outcomes. The evaluation will focus on efficiency, effectiveness, sustainability, and stakeholder engagement, with the goal of informing future program priorities. Proposals are due by February 14, 2025, and will be evaluated based on specified criteria outlined in the RFP document.

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0% found this document useful (0 votes)
15 views22 pages

PHNTASConsultant Specifications

Primary Health Tasmania is seeking proposals for a summative evaluation of its rural primary health and diabetes management services, aimed at assessing their design, implementation, and outcomes. The evaluation will focus on efficiency, effectiveness, sustainability, and stakeholder engagement, with the goal of informing future program priorities. Proposals are due by February 14, 2025, and will be evaluated based on specified criteria outlined in the RFP document.

Uploaded by

Robert Joe
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
You are on page 1/ 22

Evaluation of rural primary health and diabetes management services

Request for Proposal RFP


Consultant specifications
Title Evaluation of rural primary health and diabetes management services

Reference PN7868

Close date and time Friday 14 February 2025 - 2.00pm AEDT


Late applications will not be accepted

Contact email procurement@primaryhealthtas.com.au

Primary Health Tasmania Limited


ABN 47 082 572 629
www.primaryhealthtas.com.au

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Evaluation of rural primary health and diabetes management services

Contents
1. About Primary Health Tasmania .............................................................................................................. 3
2. Introduction and background .................................................................................................................... 3
3. Evaluation scope ...................................................................................................................................... 4
4. Performance measures ..........................................................................................................................11
5. Budget, payment and pricing requirement .............................................................................................11
6. Evaluation criterion .................................................................................................................................13
7. Request for proposal requirements ........................................................................................................14
8. Contract information ...............................................................................................................................16
9. Attachment .............................................................................................................................................16
10. Procurement terms and conditions .........................................................................................................17
Appendix 1: Service overview ..........................................................................................................................20
Appendix 2: Glossary of terms .........................................................................................................................22

Primary Health Tasmania Limited


ABN 47 082 572 629
www.primaryhealthtas.com.au

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Evaluation of rural primary health and diabetes management services

1. About Primary Health Tasmania


Primary Health Tasmania is a non-government, not-for-profit organisation working to connect care and keep
Tasmanians well and out of hospital. This organisation is one of 31 similar bodies established around Australia
as part of the Primary Health Networks Programme - an Australian Government initiative. The Australian
Government has set the following objectives for primary health networks nationally:
x increasing the efficiency and effectiveness of medical services for patients, particularly those at risk of poor
health outcomes, and
x improving coordination of care to ensure patients receive the right care in the right place at the right time.
Primary Health Tasmania supports general practice as the cornerstone of the health care system and other
community-based providers to deliver the best possible care for Tasmanians. We engage at the community
level to identify local health needs and work with health system partners and providers on innovative solutions
to address service gaps.
Primary Health Tasmania has strong working relationships with a broad range of private, public and community
sector organisations across primary, acute, aged and social care. This results in the organisation continuing to
strengthen a coordinated, primary care-focused health system delivering the right care, in the right place, at the
right time, by the right people. For more information primaryhealthtas.com.au.
Primary Health Tasmania also has a key role as a commissioner of primary health services, commissioning for
measurable outcomes rather than a direct provider of services. Commissioning services is the process of
working with communities and providers to identify health priorities; designing services to address those
priorities; then procuring and implementing these services in partnership with providers to ensure they meet
required outcomes. Commissioning is one the roles in the Australian Government has given all Primary Health
Networks. For more information about commissioning visit primaryhealthtas.com.au/what-we-do/commissioning.

2. Introduction and background


Chronic conditions stand as the primary contributors to illness, disability and death in Australia. Among the
prevalent chronic conditions are cardiovascular diseases, musculoskeletal conditions, respiratory diseases,
diabetes, mental illness, and cancer 1. Addressing these long-term health conditions presents one of the biggest
challenges to the Tasmanian health system.
Many chronic health conditions can be effectively managed in primary care. People can often manage their
conditions with limited healthcare support, particularly during the early stages of their illness. However, as
chronic conditions become more complex, more intensive team care may be required. Thus, managing chronic
conditions is a priority for Primary Health Tasmania, especially for those at the highest risk of the poorest health
outcomes.
To effectively manage and reduce the impacts of chronic conditions, Primary Health Tasmania has
commissioned chronic conditions services aimed at addressing the multifaceted challenges posed by prevalent
long-term health conditions, guided by a chronic conditions program strategy and logic developed by Primary
Health Tasmania. This resource serves as a guide for priority setting and decision-making in service design,
commissioning, and other activities across all Primary Health Tasmania chronic conditions program areas.
The chronic conditions program aims to achieve the following outcomes for Tasmanians with chronic conditions:
x access to evidence-based care.
x Primary care as close to home as possible.
x Comprehensive team-based primary care for those with high levels of hospital services
x Improved access to primary care in the after-hours period.
x Culturally appropriate care.
In addition:
x Tasmanians with life-limiting chronic conditions receive timely, appropriate end-of-life care.
x Data drives best-practice performance by primary care providers.

1
Chronic conditions | Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care

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Evaluation of rural primary health and diabetes management services

Primary Health Tasmania focuses on priority populations identified in our triennial comprehensive health needs
assessment2. Accordingly, Primary Health Tasmania has commissioned services for people with chronic
conditions in rural areas and for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people with chronic conditions. More
specifically, Primary Health Tasmania provides funds to organisations to deliver primary healthcare services
across several rural local government areas3. Additionally, Primary Health Tasmania allocates specific annual
funding for diabetes management, which was previously supported under the Rural Primary Health Services
(RPHS). The scope of this evaluation will be to assess the RPHS and diabetes management services
commissioned by Primary Health Tasmania. Further information regarding these services is provided in
Appendix 1: Service overview.
Outcomes sought from these RPHS and diabetes management services are:
x increase the efficiency and effectiveness of medical services for patients - particularly those at risk of poor
health outcomes.
x Improve the coordination of care to ensure patients receive the right care in the right place at the right time.
Primary Health Tasmania is committed to regularly monitoring, assessing, and evaluating our programs and
services. As per Primary Health Tasmania evaluation strategy, each significant program and service undergoes
a thorough evaluation. This approach is crucial as evaluations provide valuable evidence to guide informed
decision-making for future program enhancements.
Given that the RPHS and diabetes management services have been established for several years, a
comprehensive summative evaluation is required to be conducted to evaluate all processes and outcomes of
the services.

3. Evaluation scope
Primary Health Tasmania is seeking proposals from experienced and qualified consultants to conduct a
summative evaluation of the design, implementation and delivery of the two (2) main components of the chronic
conditions services (RPHS and diabetes management services) commissioned by Primary Health Tasmania.
The evaluation will assess impacts, effectiveness, and sustainability by examining design, implementation,
delivery, outcomes, data quality, and long-term viability, including resource availability and adaptability to
evolving needs.
Primary Health Tasmania reserves the right to engage the successful consultant from this tender process for
additional works, if required.

3.1 Evaluation aim


The evaluation aims to provide evidence to Primary Health Tasmania to inform the 2025-26 planning of chronic
conditions program priorities into the future. This involves achieving the following:
x evaluate the design, implementation, and delivery of RPHS and diabetes management services, including
accessibility for the target population.
x Examine the equity, effectiveness and efficiency of RPHS and diabetes management services. This
includes efficiency and effectiveness of service delivery mechanisms, stakeholder engagement strategies,
resource utilisation, and coordination among healthcare providers involved in the services.
x Identify potential risks and challenges encountered by service clients and providers, along with
recommendations to mitigate these risks and enhance RPHS and diabetes management services
sustainability. This includes recognising areas for improvement by identifying the elements that are not
functioning well and understanding the underlying reasons (barriers).
x Identify the key elements that contribute to the RPHS and diabetes management services’ success (identify
strengths) and understanding the factors that enable them (facilitators).
x Assess outcomes and impacts achieved by the RPHS and diabetes management services, including but not
limited to the improvements in health indicators, satisfaction, and the overall impact on the quality of life for
participants.
x Examining the relationship between financial inputs and measurable health outcomes, broader impacts, and
overall value for money.

2
Primary Health Tasmania-Comprehensive Needs Assessment 2022-2025
3
Managing chronic conditions - Primary Health Tasmania

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x Examine the sustainability of the RPHS and diabetes management services by assessing resource
availability, adaptability to evolving needs, and integration with other healthcare services.
x Provide actionable recommendations to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of data collection.
It is expected that the consultant will engage with key stakeholders including service clients, staff, healthcare
professionals, and community organisations to gather diverse perspectives and insights on the RPHS and
diabetes management services effectiveness and areas for improvement. Additionally, the consultant should
demonstrate flexibility in addressing unforeseen challenges while staying aligned with evaluation goals and
timeframes.

3.2 Key evaluation questions


The key evaluation questions will address relevance, effectiveness, efficiency, sustainability, and guiding
principles such as partnership relationships and collaboration.

Question Source of information Why do we want to know this?

To what extent are the RPHS and Services overview, To ensure services align with
Diabetes management services commissioning intentions commissioning intentions and are
designed and delivered effectively, documents, and quarterly accessible to those who need them most.
and are they accessible to the target reports. Interviews with This provides insight into whether the
population? providers as needed. design is appropriate, and delivery
mechanisms are meeting the target
population’s needs.

To what extent are the RPHS and Stakeholder interviews/ To assess whether resources are being
diabetes management services surveys. utilised optimally and stakeholder
achieving their intended outcomes collaboration is effective in achieving
efficiently, including effective program goals. This helps identify areas
resource utilisation, stakeholder where efficiency or coordination could be
engagement, and coordination? improved and inform future adjustments
and decisions.

What specific mental health services Services overview, service To assess the breadth and depth of
are being delivered, in terms of data, financial and quarterly mental health services provided, evaluate
scope, volume, and proportionality reports, provider interviews/ their quantitative and proportional
compared to other health services, surveys. emphasis within the healthcare offerings,
and how effectively do they integrate and determine the effectiveness of their
within the overall service delivery integration with other health services.
framework? This analysis will inform future planning.

What are the key strengths (success Stakeholder interviews/ To identify what is working well and what
factors) and barriers (challenges) surveys and discussions with is not, understand the reasons behind
impacting the delivery of the RPHS Primary Health Tasmania barriers, and provide actionable
and diabetes management services, staff recommendations to inform future
and how can these challenges be decisions.
mitigated?

To what extent have the RPHS and Patient surveys and service To assess the direct impact of services on
diabetes management services data. participants and evaluate their
improved health outcomes, patient contribution to health and wellbeing,
satisfaction, and the overall quality of providing insights to inform future
life for participants? decisions.

To what extent do the RPHS and Services overview, financial To determine whether the services are
diabetes management services and quarterly reports. achieving optimal results relative to their
provide value for money by Interviews with providers and costs, ensuring resources are being used
balancing costs and health Primary Health Tasmania efficiently and delivering the greatest
outcomes? staff as needed. possible benefit to participants.

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Question Source of information Why do we want to know this?

To what extent are the RPHS and Discussions with providers, To assess the long-term sustainability of
diabetes management services and stakeholder interviews/ services, their adaptability to changing
sustainable, considering resource surveys. needs, and their potential for integration
availability, adaptability to evolving within the broader healthcare system to
needs, and integration with other inform future planning.
healthcare services?

What actionable recommendations To be determined in To provide practical insights and solutions


can be made to enhance service consultation with Primary that guide service delivery, address
delivery, address identified Health Tasmania, potentially challenges, and improve data collection
challenges, and improve data including surveys, interviews, processes to inform future decisions and
collection and evaluation processes? focus groups, or workshops evaluations.
with key stakeholders and
commissioned service
providers.

3.3 Tasks and responsibilities


Tasks and responsibilities are outlined as follows:

3.3.1 Consultant responsibilities


Rapid review: a rapid literature review to identify and summarise the current effective models of care for people
with chronic conditions at both local and national level and provide comparison of RPHS and diabetes
management models of care with best practice. This includes relevant current state and national policy direction
and, in particular, the initiatives under the Strengthening Medicare reforms to encourage multi-disciplinary team-
based care. The rapid review is expected to identify the characteristics of successful models of care or outline
what an ideal best practice model could look like. This analysis will be used to establish success criteria for
assessing the effectiveness of the current services.
Stakeholder engagement: conduct interviews/surveys with stakeholders and service clients to understand
service barriers and facilitators, understand the models of care used by the commissioned service providers,
gather insights into service implementation, identify best practices, assess participant and client interactions,
consider client specific needs, assess services integration with other health services, obtain provider feedback,
and provide context for the quantitative and other data collected by the Health Strategy and Performance (HSP)
team.
Qualitative/and or quantitative data: in-depth interviews/surveys with stakeholders to understand the
commissioned service provider’s perspective and experience on services’ barriers and facilitators, understand
the model of care used by providers, gather insights into services implementation, identify best practices,
assess providers and client interactions, assess providers' ability to tailor care to meet specific clients' needs,
assess RPHS and diabetes management services integration with other health services, obtain provider
feedback, capture clients experience/satisfaction, and provide context for the quantitative and other data
collected by the HSP Team.
Note that these variables are collected and reported separately for each commissioned service provider.

Indicator/data variable (measure) Data source Data collection method and who

x Number of clients serviced 6 monthly reports from Commissioned service providers


x Demographics of the clients commissioned service providers submitted the report quarterly to
x Original intention of referral Primary Health Tasmania, the HSP
x Improved health outcomes and team will share the variables from
quality of life for clients over time reports 2020-2023 with the
consultant

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Indicator/data variable (measure) Data source Data collection method and who

x Commissioned service providers’ In-depth/or focus group interviews Consultant


experience and perspectives with commissioned service
providers

x Stakeholders’ experience and In-depth/or a survey for general Consultant


perspectives practices collaborating with
commissioned service providers

x Clients’ satisfaction, experience Surveys for clients of the RPHS Consultant


and perspectives and diabetes management
services.

Cost-outcome analysis: conduct a cost-outcome analysis to assess whether the benefits of the RPHS and
diabetes management services justify their associated costs.
Evaluation quality and ethical standards: the evaluation respects and protects the rights and welfare of the
individuals and organisations involved. It should be accurate, reliable, transparent, and impartial, and it should
also support organisational learning and accountability.

3.3.2 HSP team responsibilities


The HSP team will be responsible for conducting the following activity and provide the results to the consultant.
Quantitative data: The HSP team will analyse data from six-monthly reports 2020-2023 collected from the
commissioned service providers, such as client demographics, diagnoses, and risk factors. The following
indicators that will be collected and analysed by HSP team and provided to the consultant.

Program activity Indicator

Rural Primary Health Services x Number of clients serviced


(RPHS) x Demographics of the clients
x Original intention of referral (if available)
x Improved health outcomes and quality of life for clients over time
(if available)
x Positive changes in health status and level of functioning of the
program clients (if possible to do and if the data is available)
x Decrease in level of blood pressure for hypertensive patients of
people at risk of cardiovascular disease (if possible to do and if the
data is available)
x Decrease in weight in obese and overweight people

Diabetes management services x Number of clients serviced


x Demographics of the clients
x Original intention of referral
x Improved health outcomes and quality of life for clients over time
x Improved health outcomes for clients with diabetes in population
groups of greatest need
x Improved integration of care for clients with diabetes
x Improved integration of primary health services delivering care for
clients with diabetes
x Increased access to services through improved continuity of care
x Decrease weight, waist circumference, systolic blood pressure if
high) and HbA1c

Distribution of survey and interview invitations: the links to surveys and interview invitations to stakeholders,
developed by the consultant, will be distributed through Primary Health Tasmania.

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3.4 In scope activities for the consultant

3.4.1 Develop evaluation/data analysis plan


The consultant will provide an evaluation and data analysis plan after the evaluation kick-off meeting detailing
the agreed and confirmed approach.
The evaluation plan will include but is not limited to:
x a comprehensive data strategy matrix outlining data sources, collection methods, and analysis techniques
utilised throughout the evaluation.
x A description of qualitative data analysis methods, and descriptive statistics to summarise and interpret the
data. The plan should also indicate whether other statistical methods may also be used.
x Visual representation of data through charts, graphs, and tables to illustrate key insights.
Findings should be interpreted within the context of the RPHS and diabetes management services goals and
research questions. The results should be presented in a detailed report, including evidence-based
recommendations for program enhancements, further research, and future initiatives.
Analysis of quantitative data collected by commissioned service providers and shared with Primary Health
Tasmania. Analysis of these quantitative data should be used to assess the impact of services. Note that
diabetes management data should not be integrated with the RPHS as their cohort of clients and services are
different.
In 2024, Primary Health Tasmania has shared with RPHS commissioned service providers a standardised
'minimum dataset' that outlines the variables to be collected by clinicians and providers. The dataset is designed
to capture essential demographic and health-related information necessary for evaluating the effectiveness of
the programs. Furthermore, the proposed dataset includes physical measures that are to be collected at each
patient encounter by the RPHS commissioned service providers. These measures aim to assess whether the
programs have had any impact on participants' physical health and overall wellbeing. These physical measures
encompass parameters such as blood pressure, weight, quality-of-life assessments, glucose or HbA1c levels,
and evaluations of cardiovascular and other chronic disease risk factors, among others. Comparison between
those measures will be made to determine changes over time. A list of physical measures will be extracted and
analysed by the HSP team and provided to the successful consultant.
The data analyses will be conducted by Primary Health Tasmania analysts according to the requirements of the
consultant wherever the data is available. Additionally, client satisfaction feedback collected from the
commissioned service providers will be analysed by the HSP team to assess clients' satisfaction with the RPHS,
and diabetes management services.

3.4.2 Develop a program logic


The consultant will develop a comprehensive logic model and illustrating components and activities, the
overarching design, and both RPHS and diabetes management services, while also addressing the evaluation
questions. The logic model should reflect the programs' specific goals and provide a foundation for interpreting
findings.

3.4.3 Develop evaluation framework


The consultant needs to develop evaluation framework outlining the overarching structure and methodology
employed in the evaluation process. This document should clearly map the evaluation questions to the data
collection and analysis methods, ensuring alignment with the program’s objectives.

3.4.4 Develop interview guide for key stakeholders


The interview guides can include but are not limited to the following layers of subthemes: core services delivery
(understand client journey, and care collaboration), individualised care delivery services (tailored care approach
to address the specific needs of individual clients), services implementation and optimisation (effective
strategies, area for improvement), and best practices and optimisation (successful practices and identify
potential areas for advancement).
Commissioned service providers: The interview guide needs to focus primarily on barriers and facilitators’
themes, drawing insights from the providers experience and perspective. This includes identifying the key
elements that contribute to the services' success and understanding the factors that enable them (facilitators)
and identifying the elements that are not functioning well and exploring the underlying reasons (barriers).

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Other stakeholders: The interview guide or survey for general practices collaborating with services providers is
expected to assess the integration of the RPHS and Diabetes Tasmania services with other parts of Tasmania's
health system (integration challenges and opportunities).
As a minimum of five (5) (at least one for each commissioned service provider) and up to 10 interviews are
expected to be conducted by the consultant in order to explore services barriers and facilitators, to understand
the model of care that RPHS and diabetes management providers use, to understand the provider’s
perspective, to gather information about program implementation insights, to know about participant and clients
interactions, to understand how to tailor care to specific participant’s needs, and to give context for the
quantitative and other data collected.
A minimum of five (5) to 10 interviews, or online survey (as considered more efficient approach) with general
practices collaborating with RPHS and diabetes management providers. This will assist in understanding how
their services integrate with other health services within the Tasmanian Health System.
Client feedback, regarding their experiences, obstacles in accessing care, satisfaction, and recommendations
for improvements will be gathered through a survey conducted by a consultant. The minimum acceptable
number of participants (the clients of the service) could be 10% or an appropriate representative number of
clients who used the RPHS and Diabetes management services.
The consultant should provide draft question guides, interviewee lists/survey participants including:
x clients, commissioned service providers key people, such as managers, clinicians, and the staff providing
service to the clients for these programs in those settings.
x Primary Health Tasmania relevant staff (program sponsor/manager/team, contract advisor, or service
design team) and data analysis plan for discussion and endorsement by Primary Health Tasmania.

3.4.5 Engage with relevant stakeholders


The consultant is expected to develop a stakeholder consultation plan and engage with relevant stakeholders.
The engagement with stakeholders can include but is not limited to online or face to face interviews, focus
groups, and online survey (if required). The key stakeholders include services staff,service clients, healthcare
professionals, and community organisations, ensuring a diverse range of perspectives and insights are
gathered to evaluate service effectiveness and identify areas for improvement.
Primary Health Tasmania will provide the consultant with list of the key stakeholders (summarised in the table
below) which will include service clients identified by the commissioned service providers, key staff (managers,
clinicians, and the commissioned providers staff providing service to the clients for these services in those
settings), general practices who collaborate with the commissioned service providers, and Primary Health
Tasmania relevant staff.

Stakeholder identification Audience category Role in evaluation

HSP Team Primary (internal) Engaging: plan and lead the evaluation
with other relevant teams and external
consultant

Primary Health Tasmania teams Primary (internal) Engaging: co-leading with HSP team

Executive Primary (internal) Sponsor of the project

RPHS commissioned service providers: Primary (external) Engage and participate in the evaluation
x Corumbene providing the required information
x Royal Flying Doctor Service
x Rural Health Tasmania

Diabetes management services Primary (external) Engage and participate in the evaluation
commissioned service provider: providing the required information
x Diabetes Australia Tasmania

Service clients Primary (external) Engage and participate in the evaluation


providing their experience or feedback

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Stakeholder identification Audience category Role in evaluation

General practices Secondary (external) Engage and participate in the evaluation


providing their experience or feedback

Tasmanian Department of Health Secondary (external) Not applicable

The audience category is defined according to the level of their interest in the evaluation findings. It includes
primary audience e.g. Primary Health Tasmania, program funder, commissioned service providers, and
secondary audience e.g. other relevant organisations, general population.

3.4.6 Submit an evaluation report


This evaluation will expect to utilise a mixed-methods approach, with the consultant drawing the final picture
based on quantitative findings provided by the HSP team, and rapid review, the results of the cost-outcome
analysis, qualitative and/or quantitative data collected by the consultant. This will then inform the presentation of
findings, conclusions, and recommendations aligned with the evaluation objectives. The cost outcome analysis
is to assess whether the benefits of the service justify their associated costs.

3.4.7 Progress meetings


The consultant will be required to participate in a 30-minute meeting with the Primary Health Tasmania contract
manager each week during the execution of the evaluation activities. This meeting can be conducted virtually.
The timing of the meetings will be agreed between the consultant and the contract manager. The regularity of
the meetings can be varied as agreed.

3.4.8 Develop post evaluation phase activities


This includes an executive summary highlighting key findings, conclusions, and actionable recommendations,
presentation of the evaluation results to Primary Health Tasmania executive team and other relevant
stakeholders and providing any additional materials or documentation that support the evaluation findings and
recommendations.
The final report should include but is not limited to:
x executive summary, highlighting key findings, conclusions, and actionable recommendations.
x The findings, conclusions, and recommendations based on the evaluation aims.
x A summary of stakeholders engaged and recommendations including de-identified transcripts or surveys,
summaries of consultation, or other documents associated with stakeholder consultation.
x The evaluation framework and program logic.
x Presentation of evaluation results to Primary Health Tasmania executive team and relevant stakeholders.
x Any additional materials or documentation, supporting the evaluation findings and recommendations.

3.5 Project timeframes

Evaluation activity Expected date

Project team and consultant meetings April 2025

Designing the evaluation for the services (by consultant) April 2025

Quantitative analyses for the data collected from the services providers May 2025
(by HSP Team)

Rapid review (by consultant) May 2025

Undertaking other activities of evaluation, such as documentation review, interview, June 2025
survey (by consultant)

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Evaluation of rural primary health and diabetes management services

Evaluation activity Expected date

Qualitative/and or quantitative data analyses (by consultant) June 2025

Cost-outcome analysis (by consultant) July 2025

Draft report (by consultant) Mid-July 2025

Provision of feedback from Primary Health Tasmania and commissioned service Mid-August 2025
providers

Final report (by consultant) End of August 2025

Post-evaluation phase activities (by consultant) End of September 2025

3.6 Out of scope


Activities that are out of scope for this project are:
x broader program evaluation: the focus of the evaluation should only focus on RPHS and diabetes
management services.
x Developing new service models: While the evaluation may identify areas for improvement, which may
include recommendation around a new service model.
x Ethics approval is not anticipated as an in-scope requirement of this evaluation.

3.7 Constraints
x Primary Health Tasmania is required to work within Australian Government funding guidelines.
x Completion timeframes are required to inform Primary Health Tasmania annual planning activities.
x All communication between the consultant and stakeholders will be facilitated through Primary Health
Tasmania to ensure consistent messaging and alignment with agreed-upon key messages.

4. Performance measures
To successfully achieve the outputs required for this project, the following performance measures have been
developed to enable a clear understanding and expectation by Primary Health Tasmania of the consultant.

Performance criteria Measure

Deliverables must be submitted by the deadlines with feedback from Primary As per dates in agreed project
Health Tasmania being addressed comprehensively and promptly. plan

Revision cycles required after submission of draft and final report for review Two (2) or less

Statement of financial performance Within budget constraints

5. Budget, payment and pricing requirement


5.1 Budget
A budget value or range will not be disclosed for this project as this is a competitive process.

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5.2 Payment schedule


Payment terms are 30 days after receipt of a correctly rendered tax invoice and satisfactory completion of each
delivery of each Deliverable along with any supporting documentation reasonably requested by Primary Health
Tasmania.

Deliverable no. and description % Split

2501 Contract execution 30%

2502 Evaluation planning kick off completed 10%


x Development and Primary Health Tasmania acceptance of:
- revised program logic
- revised evaluation workplan including a data analysis plan and any proposed data
collection tools and templates
- draft evaluation report structure
- finalised stakeholder consultation plan (see 3.4.5 Engage with relevant stakeholders)
- completion of an evaluation kick-off meeting (with Primary Health Tasmania) detailing
the agreed and confirmed approach

2503 Completing review and data collection 15%


x Completion and acceptance of:
- de-identified transcripts or surveys, summaries of consultation, or other documents
associated with stakeholder consultation
- a summary of stakeholders' engagement and recommendations within the final report

2601 Acceptance of draft (interim) report 15%


x Completion and acceptance of the draft evaluation report to Primary Health Tasmania
x Presentation of draft report findings to key Primary Health Tasmania stakeholders

2602 Final approval of the evaluation package 30%


x Final evaluation package accepted by Primary Health Tasmania including the evaluation
framework, program logic, and final report
x Presentation of findings to Primary Health Tasmania and engaged stakeholders

100%

5.3 Pricing requirement


All prices quoted must be exclusive of Goods and Services Tax (GST), include all assumptions, (if different
hourly rates apply) and costs for all activities. The following tables are a guide on how to structure the pricing in
your proposal. Please remember to itemise any proposed travel and accommodation costs.

Project stage Team member High level activities Quantity (days $ Rate (day Total price
and/or hours) and/or hourly)

Other expenses (1 expense line per row)

Grand total

All proposals must have an accompanying schedule of rates detailing:

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Team member Position Quantity (days $ Rate (day Total price


and/or hours) and/or hourly)

Grand total

The quoted price should be finalised and not include ‘TBC’ costs and must include all assumptions and costs
for all activities.

5.4 Funding exclusions


Funding provided by Primary Health Tasmania cannot be used for:
x international travel. x sitting fees to any person, including a member of
x fines or penalties. the organisations governing board for his or her
x loans or gift money or assets to any person. attendance at a meeting, or involvement in the
x sale and lease back arrangement. business of the board.
x leasing of an item of property that the x establishing a subsidiary or other commercial
organisation owns. entity or activity.
x costs of any legal action or proceedings or to x fees or charges that are calculated on a basis
settle or agree to consent orders in relation to, or other than the costs the organisation actually
otherwise resolve any proceedings or application incurs in the performance of the service.
for reinstatement and/or wrongful dismissal by a x capital expenditure, including the purchase of a
current or former employee. car or other vehicle.
x redundancy payments, advances, commissions, x provision for the future of any asset
bonuses, performance-based benefits or similar replacements by allocation of depreciation
benefits to any person. expense or otherwise.

6. Evaluation criterion
Primary Health Tasmania will establish an evaluation panel to complete a comprehensive evaluation of received
proposals. Your completed proposal should address the requirements of the tender and include the necessary
information for the evaluation panel to assess the merits of your proposal.

Criterion Description

Project methodology Prepare a response which should clearly evidence the project management
approach to successfully deliver this project. Ensure the response outlines:
Weighting 30%
x project stages by milestone outlining planned activities, stakeholder
engagement, resources and timeframes
x include the objectives and outcomes of each stage, resources allocated
and key risks and mitigation strategies
Structuring your proposal with tools such as project plans with Gantt charts and
a risk management plan is encouraged.
Ensure the methodology considers the quality and ethical standards such as
the Australian Evaluation Social Code of Ethical conduct or equivalent.

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Evaluation of rural primary health and diabetes management services

Criterion Description

Organisation experience Ideally, the consultant will assemble a team with the following experience and
qualifications if possible:
Weighting 35%
x recent evaluation experience at a state or national level.
x Membership in a recognised evaluation society.
x Team members with tertiary qualifications in evaluation.
x A track record of publishing or contributing to published evaluation works.
x 10-15 years of professional experience in evaluation.
x A solid understanding of qualitative and quantitative methods.
x Expertise in design evaluation and strong grasp of evaluation
methodologies.
Provide an executive summary and general capability at an entity level
supported with your core competencies and differentiators to competitors.
Include the project team members, their evaluation skills, experience,
qualifications, and expertise in qualitative and quantitative evaluation methods.
Provide two (2) referees from similar projects that have been completed by
your organisation in the past five (5) years outlining:
x broad summary of project performed
x project duration and value (if permitted)
x role of your organisation.
In providing referee information, please include contact name, organisation and
contact email. Please do not use Primary Health Tasmania as a referee.
Focus on experience that is similar to the project outlined in this request.

Pricing and value for money Include a detailed budget (structuring the budget using the guidance provided
in 5.3 Pricing requirement) outlining project phase, project member allocated
Weighting 35%
hours (resources). Ensure you outline all associated expenses and
assumptions and include a schedule of rates for the project team.
Include at least two value for money features in your proposal.

Total

7. Request for proposal requirements


7.1 Organisation eligibility
To be eligible to apply your organisation must meet the following mandatory requirements

Mandatory requirement

1. Have an active Australian Business Number (ABN)

2. Have insurance coverage that complies with:


x public liability $20,000,000 per claim
x professional indemnity $10,000,000 per claim
x workers’ compensation as required by law.

Page 14 of 22
Evaluation of rural primary health and diabetes management services

7.2 What are the response requirements?


Submit your completed written proposal via eTender portal before the close day and time at portal.tenderlink.
com/primaryhealthtas. The following documents must also be submitted:

1. Comprehensive written proposal that addresses evaluation scope and evaluation criterion.

2. Outline of capability, project team and CVs, including team members, their evaluation skills, experience
and qualifications

3. Details of two (2) referees (contact name, business name and contact email) for similar projects your
organisation has completed in the past five (5) years.

7.3 Procurement timeframe


The anticipated timeframe to complete this procurement activity is as follows:

Release date Thursday 16 January 2025

Close date and time Friday 14 February 2025 - 2.00pm AEDT


Late applications will not be accepted

Evaluation and selection Late February

Contract negotiation March 2025

Contract commencement Late March 2025

7.4 How to ask questions/seek clarification


Primary Health Tasmania encourage organisations to seek clarity on this request with the following options
available:

Online To post a question:


x login into TenderLink portal.tenderlink.com/primaryhealthtas
x click on All Current Tenders, and select the Rfx number link
x click on the Post a new question button at the bottom of the forum window
x fill in the Subject and Question/Comment to Add fields and click the Add
Posting button. The question will be posted to the forum.
To add a comment/reply:
x click on the question subject under the Question/Comment heading
x in the forum thread window click on the Post a new reply button and fill in
the Reply/Comment to add field
x click the Add Reply button to add your reply to the thread.

Email For any questions that are commercially sensitive, these queries must be in
writing and submitted to: Manager Procurement via procurement@
primaryhealthtas.com.au
Where applicable these questions will be posted to the online forum on your
behalf or as an addendum.

Important: Online and email questions are monitored by Primary Health Tasmania’s Procurement Team
Monday to Friday 9.00am-5.00pm, excluding public holidays.
To ensure fairness and transparency for any prospective organisation, please refrain from direct contact to any
Primary Health Tasmania staff during this process. Any attempt to seek information in this manner may result in
disqualification of your organisation from the ongoing process.

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Evaluation of rural primary health and diabetes management services

8. Contract information
Please review the service agreement to understand and accept our standard terms and conditions. Should your
organisation expect to negotiate these terms and conditions, the written response must outline:
x clause number/description
x proposed change
x reason for change request.
Primary Health Tasmania is prepared to contemplate minor variations to our standard terms and conditions,
however, it may not be viewed as reasonable if the variation is not supported with the necessity for the change.
Any variation to our standard terms and conditions will require agreement by both parties.
If no variation to our standard terms and conditions is provided, Primary Health Tasmania will assume the
consultant can and will, comply with the proposed contract in all respects.

9. Attachment
The following attachment is included in this notice are provided below for you reference:

No. Attachment name Purpose

1. Service agreement terms and conditions To review Primary Health Tasmania’s service agreement
terms and conditions

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Evaluation of rural primary health and diabetes management services

10. Procurement terms and conditions


1. Definitions 3.2 Non-disclosure
Applicant: any individual or organisation submitting a Confidential Information can only be disclosed to those
proposal in response to a tender issued by PHT. employees, agents or subcontractors who require it for
Confidential information: any information disclosed by the purpose of preparing their proposal and who are
PHT or the applicant in connection with this tender bound by similar confidentiality obligations. Any
whether in written, verbal or electronic form. This unauthorised disclosure is strictly prohibited.
includes but is not limited to, documents,
3.3 Data protection
communications, pricing, data, attachments and any
other sensitive information and associated materials with Applicants must comply with all applicable data
the tender. protection laws and regulations, including the Privacy
Close date and time: The specific date and time by Act 1988 (Cth), Personal Information Protection Act
which all proposals must be submitted in response to the 2004 (Tas) and any relevant state legislation.
tender.
Key contact: is TenderLink on 1800 233 533 or 3.4 Public announcements
support@tenderlink.com Applicants must not make any public announcements or
Preferred supplier: a supplier who, having been engage in advertising relating to this tender without
selected after a formal evaluation process, is written consent from PHT.
approached to provide goods and or services to PHT.
PHT is Primary Health Tasmania. 3.5 Confidentiality of proposals
Proposal: the written response submitted by an Proposals submitted by applicants are considered
applicant in accordance with the tender. confidential and will be used solely for evaluating and
Tender: an approach to market initiated by PHT to invite selecting a preferred supplier/s. Proposals will not be
applicants to submit proposals to bid for goods and/or disclosed to any third party without the applicant’s prior
services. written consent, except where disclosure is required:
Tender portal: means the system TenderLink which
PHT uses to release and manage the tender. x For the proper evaluation and assessment of the
tender
This tender is governed by the laws in Tasmania.
x By law or regulation; or
2. Anti-competitive conduct x For internal purposes within PHT, including
disclosure to employees, agents, or advisors
The applicant warrants that: involved in the tender, provided these individuals are
x they have not engaged in any anti-competitive subject to equivalent confidentiality obligations.
conduct, including but not limited to, any collusive, 3.6 Applicant acknowledgements
anti-competitive, or other prohibited conduct, in
connection with this tender. The applicant acknowledges that PHT may:
x engaging in such conduct may contravene the x publish the name of the preferred supplier/s and
Competition and Consumer Act 2010 (Cth) which disclose the awarded contract amount.
could lead to disqualification from this tender. x engage a probity advisor to ensure that the tender
2.1 Disqualification process is fair, allowing for independently validation.
PHT reserves the right, at its sole discretion, to disqualify 4. Conflict of interest
an applicant if it has reasonable grounds to believe that
Applicants must promptly disclose in writing to PHT any
the applicant has engaged in any anti-competitive
actual, potential, or perceived conflict of interest that
conduct in relation to this tender. The applicant may be
may arise in connection with their participation in this
deemed ineligible to participate in any future
tender. This includes situations where the applicant,
procurement processes or tenders. PHT reserves the
their employees, agents, or subcontractors have any
right to notify relevant government authorities of such
personal, financial, or other interests that could
conduct, where deemed appropriate.
improperly influence, or appear to influence, the
3. Confidentiality and Data Protection outcome of this tender. Failure to disclose a conflict of
interest may result in disqualification from this tender, as
3.1 Treatment of confidential information well as any other actions as deemed appropriate by
Confidential Information must be treated with the utmost PHT.
care and the applicant must take all necessary steps to
protect its confidentiality. The applicant agrees to
indemnify and hold PHT harmless from any claims,
losses, or damages arising from the applicant’s breach
of this confidentiality and data protection clause.

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Evaluation of rural primary health and diabetes management services

5. Information for applicants 6.2 Confidential enquiries


5.1 Familiarisation with Tender If an applicant has a question related to confidential
information that is specific to their proposal and does not
Applicants must familiarise themselves with all apply to other potential applicants, the question can be
requirements of this tender, including any issued directed to procurement@primaryhealthtas.com.au.
responses to questions and addendums, to ensure their Should PHT agree that the question is specific and not
proposal aligns with PHTs requirements. If the applicant relevant to any other potential applicants, the response
identifies or reasonably believes there is a discrepancy, will not be shared. Otherwise, PHT will de-identify the
ambiguity, error or inconsistency in this tender or any question and make the response available to all
other information provided by PHT, they must promptly potential applicants.
notify PHT in writing to procurement@primaryhealthtas.
com.au. 6.3 Prohibited communication
5.2 Acceptance of terms Any attempt by an applicant to communicate with PHT
staff during or after the tender process, to influence the
By submitting a proposal, applicants are deemed to outcome or lobby, will result in the applicant’s
have accepted all terms and conditions of this tender. disqualification from the tender.
5.3 Use of Tender Portal 7. Proposal completion
The use of the tender portal is provided on the condition 7.1 Document format
that the applicant assumes all risks associated with its
use and releases PHT from all responsibility for any Applicants must follow the instructions in the tender
consequences arising from such use. portal and upload documents in a Microsoft word, Excel
or PDF format unless otherwise specified and must be
5.4 Tender withdrawal capable of being accessed in Windows Office 365. All
PHT reserves the right to modify or withdraw this tender file names should be keep short and avoid use of illegal
at any time for reasons including, but not limited to: characters such as & - , ( ) ‘ “ % ?. Larger files may take
time to upload, therefore the applicant should allow time
x Determination that the tender process is to complete uploading all files to submit the proposal on
compromised due to irregularities, errors or time. Proposals should avoid use of hyperlinks or
unforeseen events. incorporating attachments unless specifically required.
x If funding is no longer available or is significantly
reduced. 7.2 Applicant responsibilities
x If there are changes in scope or requirements that The applicant must complete the mandatory
necessitate re-evaluation of the tender. requirements as specified in this tender. Failure to
x If no proposals have demonstrated value for money address these requirements may result in
or have met the tender requirements. disqualification from this tender.
In the event of withdrawing a tender, PHT shall provide Applicants are responsible for ensuring they allow
written notice, detailing the reasons for the withdrawal. sufficient time to complete and submit their proposal
5.5 Costs and liability before the tender close date and time, considering any
time zone differences if applying from other states
PHT will not be liable for any costs and expenses and/or territories.
incurred by applicants in the development or preparation
of their proposal, including any subsequent Any financial details i.e. prices, fees or budgets provided
presentations, meetings, contract negotiations or in a proposal must be in Australian dollars and GST
additional information requests by PHT. To the extent exclusive. A breakdown of assumptions, variation,
permitted by law, no applicant, whether successful or discounts or other qualifications relied upon for
unsuccessful, is entitled to claim any costs, expenses, generating pricing should be provided in the proposal.
losses or damages arising from their participation in this 7.3 Proposal submission
tender.
All proposals and accompanying documents will become
6. Tender enquiries the property of PHT upon submission.
6.1 Submission of questions PHT will not accept late proposals under any
circumstances. Any attempt to submit a proposal outside
All questions regarding this tender must be submitted
of the tender portal (without prior PHT approval which
through the tender portal and can only be made up to
will not be considered on the tender close date) or after
five (5) business days before the tender close date. PHT
the close date and time will also not be accepted. Upon
will provide responses to these questions, and all
submission, a system generated notification will confirm
responses will be made available to potential applicants.
that the proposal has been successfully submitted. If this
To ensure fairness, the identity of the person or
notification is not received before the tender closes,
organisation submitting the question will not be
applicants should contact the key contact.
disclosed.

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Evaluation of rural primary health and diabetes management services

7.4 Request for additional information Feedback will be provided only in relation to the
evaluation criteria specified in the tender; applicants will
PHT may request additional information from applicants not be provided information about other applicant’s
after the tender has closed. If the applicant does not proposals.
provide the requested information within the specified
timeframe, the evaluation may proceed based on the Feedback requests must be made within 30 days of
original submitted proposal, or the applicant may be receiving the notification of the outcome any feedback
disqualified. Requests for additional information are not request submitted after this period will not be
an opportunity to materially amend the proposal. accommodated.
7.5 Validity of proposals 9. Non-exclusive agreement
All proposals must remain valid and open for acceptance PHT reserves the right to:
for a minimum of 90 days from the close date and time
of the tender. This period may be extended by mutual x negotiate with applicants after the close date and
agreement between PHT and the applicant. Applicants time of the tender to allow alterations to their
must promptly inform PHT in writing of any material proposal.
change that could affect the completeness or accuracy x decide not to appoint any applicant to undertake the
of any information provided in their proposal. services described in this tender.
x Appoint one or more preferred suppliers to provide
7.6 Change in circumstances the goods and/or services.
The applicant may withdraw their proposal after the Nothing in this tender can be construed as creating any
tender close date if a change in circumstance occurs binding obligations between PHT and any applicant.
that significantly impacts their ability to fulfill the Until a legally binding agreement is executed by both
proposed requirements. This includes but is not limited parties, no legal relationship will exist between PHT and
to: any preferred supplier regarding the supply of goods
x Significant changes in the applicant’s financial status, and/or services related to this tender.
operational capacity or resources 10. Relevant legislation
x Unexpected regulatory changes or legal obligations
that materially affect the proposal The applicant agrees to comply with all applicable laws,
x Any other event that the applicant reasonably regulations, and standards, whether federal, state, or
believes would prevent them from delivering on the local, in relation to their participation in the tender
commitments outlined in their proposal. process and any subsequent contract. This includes, but
is not limited to, laws governing:
The applicant must provide in writing to procurement@
primaryhealthtas.com.au advising of the request to x Workplace Health and Safety
withdraw from the tender. This withdrawal shall not x Labour and employment practices
prejudice the applicant’s right to submit a proposal in x Anti-Discrimination
relation to any other tender issued by PHT. x Privacy and data protection
x Financial management and reporting
8. Evaluation process
x Any other relevant legal obligations.
PHT will form an evaluation panel consisting of members
The applicant must notify PHT in writing of any change
selected for their relevant expertise and experience. The
in ownership or control of the organisation if this occurs
panel may include external parties to evaluate proposals
during the tender. Such notification must occur within 14
or provide advice. Therefore, applicants should not
days of the change. PHT reserves the right to review
assume prior knowledge or understanding of their
and assess the implications of the change, which may
business operations. All panel members are required to
include a re-evaluation of the applicant's suitability for
disclose any actual, potential or perceived conflict of
the tender.
interest, which will be managed in accordance with
PHT’s conflict of interest policy. Panel members will treat The applicant warrants that any subcontractors or third
all matters related to the tender as confidential. parties related to the tender also comply with all
applicable laws and regulations as outlined in this
The evaluation panel will assess proposals against the
clause. The applicant remains responsible for the
criteria outlined in the tender. Proposals that fail to
compliance of its subcontractors. Applicants must also
address the evaluation criteria, meet the mandatory
comply with any other legislation as reasonably
requirements, or satisfy the eligibility criteria will be
requested by PHT.
deemed non-compliant and excluded from further
consideration.
8.1 Outcome notification
Applicants will be formally advised in writing of the
tender outcome as soon as practicable by PHTs
procurement team. Unsuccessful applicants may
request feedback on their proposal by directing this
request to procurement@primaryhealthtas.com.au.

Page 19 of 22
Appendix 1: Service overview
Below is a description of the chronic condition program components to be evaluated.

The current service model aims to achieve the following objectives:


x improve health outcomes for people with diabetes living in highest need communities
x support collaborative allied health service that works in partnership with the client, referring GP and other
health professionals to provide integrated diabetes/dietetic assessment and education service.

Rural Primary Health Service


The Rural Primary Health Services (RPHS), a nationwide initiative operating in 16 rural and remote
communities throughout Tasmania for about 14 years, shifted from Australian Government oversight to
management by Tasmania Medicare Local (the precursor to Primary Health Tasmania) in 2013-14. The rural
health offered various services, including allied health services, diabetes education, mental health services,
youth health, health promotion activities, and services coordination.
The establishment of Primary Health Networks in 2015 prompted a review and transition of health service
contracts through a commissioning cycle. Primary Health Tasmania conducted a thorough commissioning
process and review to enhance rural healthcare investment. The commissioning approach for rural primary
health services started in July 2016.
In September 2016, the RPHS tender awarded contracts to five (5) primary health organisations to deliver
services in rural areas of Tasmania. Currently, the commissioned providers of the RPHS service are
Corumbene Care, Royal Flying Doctor Service, and Rural Health Tasmania. The chronic conditions covered
by these services are:
x circulatory and cardio-vascular diseases
x mental illness
x diabetes
x respiratory diseases (Asthma/Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease-COPD)
x musculoskeletal conditions.
These services aim to achieve the following objectives:
x enhance care coordination for rural residents at high risk of poor health outcomes, focusing on priority
chronic conditions such as COPD, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, musculoskeletal conditions, and
mental illnesses.
x Enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of primary healthcare in rural regions to ensure individuals
receive appropriate care in a timely manner.
x Strengthen the capability and capacity in population health planning by collaborating with community
stakeholders and service providers. This collaboration will help identify and prioritise health issues and
potential solutions, thereby informing future commissioning cycles.

Corumbene Care
Corumbene provides various types of services used by people, including:
x care coordination
x allied health
x group clinics/clinics
x telehealth/telemonitoring.
Commissioned to provide primary health services for three (3) types of chronic health conditions:
x chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
x cardiovascular disease (CVD)
x musculoskeletal conditions.
Corumbene provides these services to people living in the following LGAs:
x Central Highlands
x Derwent Valley, and
x Southern Midlands.

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Evaluation of rural primary health and diabetes management services

Royal Flying Doctor Service


Commissioned to provide primary health services for several chronic health conditions within particular rural
local government areas (LGAs) of Tasmania. The chronic conditions are:
x mental health conditions (excluding complex and severe mental health conditions)
x cardiovascular disease (CVD)
x chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
x dementia
x musculoskeletal disorders.
Different conditions are covered in northern and southern regions of the state in the following LGAs:
x Break O'Day x Glamorgan/Spring Bay
x Dorset x Huon Valley
x Flinders Island x Bruny Island
x George Town x Tasman

Rural Health Tasmania


Commissioned to provide primary health services for five (5) types of chronic health conditions:
x mental health conditions (child, adolescent and adult, excluding adult complex and severe and drug and
alcohol services)
x cancer
x cardiovascular disease (CVD)
x chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
x musculoskeletal disorders.
Rural Health Tasmania provides services to people living in the following LGAs in North-West Tasmania:
x Circular Head x Waratah-Wynyard, and
x Kentish x West Coast.
x King Island

Diabetes Australia Tasmania


Diabetes Australia Tasmania was initially contracted to offer diabetes services to the ‘Urban Fringe’
communities within Clarence City Council, Brighton City Council, and the northern suburbs of Launceston
City Council under the RPHS. Following the tender process in 2016 for the new RPHS, Diabetes Australia
Tasmania was appointed to deliver Type 2 diabetes services across all rural Local Government Areas in
Tasmania, effective from 1 January 2017. At the time, Type 1 diabetes services were also included;
however, this was taken out of scope in 2023. As the services in Urban Fringe communities faced
discontinuation after the initial RPHS ended in 2016, the contract with Diabetes Australia Tasmania was
extended to cover these regions to ensure continuity of services.
This extension lasted until June 2017, after which further contracts were signed to continue urban diabetes
services until June 2021, then to June 2025, under the Integrated Models of Care in Highest Needs
Communities (Urban Fringe) Project.
The current service model collaborates with clients, referring GPs and other health professionals to provide
comprehensive diabetes and dietetic assessment and education services in Tasmania. The services are
provided by diabetes nurse educators, dietitians, diabetes nurse practitioners, and other health workers as
agreed to by Primary Health Tasmania. These services are tailored for adults aged 18 and over with specific
chronic conditions, including:
x type 2 diabetes
x pre-diabetes
x individuals at high risk of diabetes.
These evidence-based services are primarily delivered through telehealth, alongside other methods such as
one-to-one sessions/programs, digital sessions/programs (including apps and videoconferencing), and
access to other non-Primary Health Tasmania funded group-based sessions/programs. The service model
aims to adhere to principles of equity of access, appropriate distribution sensitivity, team-based and person-
centred care, shared transfer of care, intensity matching to client needs, and adaptability to changing
community needs.

Page 21 of 22
Evaluation of rural primary health and diabetes management services

Appendix 2: Glossary of terms


Term Definition

Chronic condition Chronic conditions refers to a wide range of persistent and


complex health issues, including mental illness, trauma,
disability, and genetic disorders. They have multiple
causes, may occur alone or with other conditions, and often
develop gradually but can include sudden or acute
episodes. Chronic conditions impact people across all life
stages, becoming more common with age, and can
compromise quality of life, independence, and overall
health. While not typically life-threatening in the short term,
they are the leading cause of premature mortality.
(Adapted from National Strategic Framework for Chronic
Conditions).

Chronic Condition Management Program The program aimed at managing long-term health
conditions.

Rural Primary Health Service (RPHS) Health services provided for patients with chronic
conditions in rural areas.

Diabetes Tasmania Organisation providing services related to diabetes


management.

Primary Care Primary care is generally the first service people go to for
health care outside of a hospital or specialist. It includes
diagnosis and treatment of health conditions and long-term
care. Primary care also covers health promotion and
prevention services. Common types of primary care are:
x general practice
x Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Services
x community health centres and walk-in clinics
x community pharmacies
x community nursing services
x oral health and dental services
x mental health services
x drug and alcohol treatment services
x sexual and reproductive health services
x maternal and child health services
x allied health services, such as psychologists,
physiotherapists, occupational therapists, chiropractors.
Reference: Department of Health and Aged Care
www.health.gov.au/topics/primary-care/about

Mixed-Methods Strategy Research approach combining qualitative and quantitative


data collection and analysis methods

Model of Care Approach to healthcare delivery, including clinical


procedures and patient management strategies.

Physical Measures Health indicators collected during patient encounters, such


as blood pressure, weight, and glucose levels.

Page 22 of 22

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