Care Plan

What is a Care Plan?

• A care plan, such as a General Practitioner Management Plan (GPMP) or a Team Care Arrangement (TCA), utilized by General Practitioners to aid patients coping with chronic diseases, intricate medical needs, and/or terminal illnesses.

Am I eligible for a Care Plan?

• Patients who have at least one chronic medical condition, or complex medical care needs, are eligible for a care plan. A chronic medical condition is broadly defined as an illness or disability that is presented for at least six months.

• There is no concrete eligibility criteria for a care plan. The decision plan is based upon your medical management benefit, and is a shared decision made by you and your doctor.

• Examples of common conditions that require care plans include:

  • Heart disease

  • Asthma

  • Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

  • Diabetes

  • Cancer

  • Stroke

  • Arthritis

  • Kidney disease

  • Mental ill-health

What are the benefits of a Care Plan?

• Organised and Structured Approach: Care Plans provide a systematic and planned strategy for managing your healthcare needs, ensuring that all aspects of your condition are addressed effectively.

• Patient Empowerment: Care Plans encourage active participation from patients in their own healthcare journey, empowering them to take control of their health and well-being.

• Improved Coordination: By outlining the roles and responsibilities of your GP, specialists, and allied health providers, Care Plans facilitate smoother coordination and communication among healthcare professionals involved in your care.

• Enhanced Rapport: The collaborative nature of Care Plans fosters stronger relationships between patients and their GP, promoting trust and communication that are vital for effective healthcare management.

Who makes a Care Plan for me?

• A care plan will be made by your usual GP. This is the doctor who provides your primary care for the past 12 months, and who will be the doctor you are going to see most in the following 12 months, to manage your health. 

What happens once a Care Plan has been made for me?

• Once a care plan has been made by your GP, it should be regularly reviewed and changed accordingly to your needs. Regular reviews, generally occurs every six months, allows you and your medical team to assess whether your goals of treatment are being met.

• You can make changes to your care plan at any time according to your own needs and advice from your GP is recommended before you make any changes.