Reminders: Key operational requirements of the NGPA Scheme | Advisory GP23/03: Standardised Repeat Assessment of General Practices

For some, accreditation preparation may seem daunting, but with the right tools and support, your practice can confidently navigate the process. As the governing body of the National General Practice Accreditation (NGPA) Scheme, the Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care (the Commission) has released Advisory GP23/03: Standardised Repeat Assessment of General Practices. It’s important your team understands the mandatory requirements of this advisory, should you be required to undergo a repeat assessment.

What you need know about mandatory repeat assessments

If your practice does not meet at least 20% of the mandatory indicators during your initial accreditation assessment, the Commission will advise that a follow-up or repeat assessment is required. This reassessment must occur within six months of the final assessment occurring, which may be done by AGPAL’s independent Decision Making Team as a desktop review.

This measure is in place to ensure that practices have successfully embedded the necessary requirements for ongoing compliance throughout the accreditation cycle. However, it also highlights the importance of thorough preparation to minimise the added pressure, stress, and cost of a reassessment.

How to strengthen your preparation process

Having worked with thousands of practices across Australia for close to three decades, we know the hard work that goes into preparing for your accreditation.

There are a number of proactive steps your practice can take to stay on track and minimise the chance of a repeat assessment:

• Maximise the self-assessment period: AGPAL’s self-assessment software steps you through the requirements of the RACGP Standards. It’s helpful to use this tool and phase to identify and address areas needing improvement to ensure your best prepared for your on-site assessment.
• Leverage the accreditation hub: Access a comprehensive suite of tools, templates, and guides designed to support your evidence requirements and preparation journey.
• Participate in the AGPAL Essentials webinar: Equip your team with practical insights into the RACGP Standards and tips for staying on track. Our next webinar is scheduled for 13 February 2025 and you can register your attendance here.
• Connect with your Client Liaison Officer: Your Client Liaison Officer is available support you at any stage of your accreditation journey. Their personalised support is available as part of your service inclusions and at no additional cost! Contact them to clarify standards, criterion and indicators or for any accreditation queries.

Feeling confident with your accreditation preparations

Preparation is the cornerstone of a successful accreditation process. Creating a culture of quality can help spread the responsibility of your accreditation requirements as part of the NGPA Scheme and establishes a foundation for long-term quality and safety improvements to better patient care.

AGPAL is here to support you every step of the way. If you have questions or need guidance, reach out to your Client Liaison Officer and be sure to explore the resources available to you and your team in the accreditation hub. Our team is committed to supporting your practice in achieving accreditation success—right from the start!