In the new model, ACCHOs will continue to deliver ITC through their Aboriginal Medical Services and they will also work with general practice to provide ITC through mainstream services. The change will be that general practice will be supported by their local ACCHO rather than by Northern Australia Primary Health Limited (NAPHL).

The changes to the ITC program are being made following an independent review of the program and codesign process undertaken in 2019. The Integrated Team Care–Assessment, evaluation, and co-design consultation report, prepared by KPMG, made a suite of recommendations to improve access to the program, particularly for rural and remote Indigenous communities. By implementing the recommendations of the report, Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islanders in North Queensland with complex chronic conditions will be supported in the best way possible to manage their conditions.

Northern Queensland Primary Health Network (NQPHN) and NAPHL have been working in collaboration with ACCHOs to transition to the new model for the ITC program, ready for 1 July 2022.

Should you have any questions on the ITC program or the new referral pathways for your local ACCHO, please contact NQPHN at itc@nqphn.com.au