What is CarePlus?
CarePlus is a programme which aims to support and coordinate the care of people with high health needs. It is designed for people who will benefit from regular visits with their doctor or nurse and is only available through your general practice which is part of a PHO.
Who can be enrolled with CarePlus?
To be enrolled on the CarePlus programme you must meet at least one of the following criteria:
• you have two or more chronic conditions
• you have a terminal illness
• you have had two acute hospital admissions for a medical or mental health problem in the last 12 months (this doesn’t include surgery)
• you have visited your doctor, after hours clinic or emergency department 6 or more times in the last 12 months
• your condition is being monitored for eligibility for elective surgery
How can I be enrolled?
Ask your doctor or practice nurse about it. As long as you are enrolled with your general practice and they agree you meet the criteria, you will be considered for CarePlus. If your practice has space available then all you have to do is agree to be on the programme.
What does the enrolment involve?
You will have an initial assessment with your doctor or practice nurse and together you will develop a plan for your care. This may involve setting goals to make changes in your lifestyle or other things you can do to keep you as well as possible and minimise any complications with your condition. After this you will be expected to attend reviews approximately every three months so the doctor or nurse can check your progress. You can also discuss any concerns you may have about the plan you have developed for your care.
What does it cost?
CarePlus lowers the costs of some of your visits to the doctor or nurse. Your initial assessment and your three monthly reviews will be a cheaper cost than usual. If you need to see the doctor in between your quarterly CarePlus visits, you will be charged the usual consultation fee.