Abstract
Research Aim: To explore practitioner perspectives on a large-scale, proximity-based integrated primary healthcare (PHC) model to inform future service planning for chronic disease management.
Background: A qualitative study using semi-structured interviews with 29 health professionals across general practice, allied health, pharmacy, and specialist services at Health Hub Morayfield in North Brisbane, Australia. Interviews were conducted between October 2023 and July 2024. Braun and Clarke’s thematic approach was used for analysis.
Results: Five themes were identified: (1) individualised healthcare, (2) accessibility and equity in care, (3) efficient service delivery, (4) integration of primary and urgent care, and (5) workforce and financial sustainability. Practitioners highlighted strengths of the model, including co-located services, enabling technologies, and a no-fee urgent care centre supporting hospital diversion. Workforce shortages and financial pressures were identified as key challenges. Suggested adaptations focused on sustaining the workforce and funding to support model expansion in underserved areas.
Conclusions: This integrated PHC model demonstrates how co-located, tech-enabled services can improve access and efficiency in chronic disease care. Our findings support how the World Health Organization’s Integrated People-Centred Health Services (IPCHS) model can be successfully adapted in a regional, low-socioeconomic context where key factors around workforce and funding is resolved as part of scaling integrated care in low-resource settings.