Definition of a general practice for the purpose of accreditation

The new definition of a general practice has been published for the purpose of accreditation in the Standards for general practices (5th edition).

The updated definition ensures all general practices providing comprehensive, patient-centred, whole-person and continuous care are eligible for accreditation against the Standards.

This means that access to accreditation against the Standards is extended to non-traditional general practices models, which may include mobile services (such as outreach disability services) or those servicing a specific patient cohort within facilities (eg Residential aged care facilities (RACFs) or disability homes). Broadening the definition of a general practice for the purpose of accreditation in this way seeks to achieve greater equity.

The update does not exclude services which are currently accredited by adding limiting parameters.

We have developed an Interpretive guide for the accreditation of general practices under the new definition of a general practice for the purpose of accreditation, which assists practices seeking accreditation, and agencies and surveyors assessing practices under the new definition.

Practices who want to know about their eligibility for accreditation can contact an accreditation agency approved under the National General Practice Accreditation Scheme.

You can contact standards@racgp.org.au for more information or assistance.