Using computer based templates for chronic disease management

Background General Practice Management Plans (GPMPs) and Team Care Arrangements (TCAs) were introduced in 2005 to promote better chronic disease management and to provide funding to support general practitioner involvement in care planning. To develop these plans, GPs complete forms documenting goals and strategies using computer based templates. Objective This article evaluates GP use of computer based templates for GPMPs and TCAs, their views about using them, and community health service (CHS) staff attitudes to the role of TCAs in coordination of care. Method A qualitative interview based study of 31 GPs from solo and group practices and 15 service providers from community health centres (n=46). Discussion Most GPs interviewed used templates in claiming the GPMP and TCA items. Reasons GPs chose not to use the items included time constraints and uncertainty about the process. Community health service staff identified difficulties with TCAs and care coordination. This study suggests that templates assist GPs in claiming for GPMP and TCA Medicare Benefits Schedule item numbers but do not in themselves facilitate care coordination. To improve care coordination between general practice and other agencies, communication regarding TCAs must be improved.