Accreditation - Country SA PHN

High quality health care

Better Standards for General Practice

Accreditation is an independent activity undertaken by general practices showing that a practice meets the Standards for General Practice set out by the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP). Accreditation demonstrates a practice's dedication to delivering high quality care and safety to their patients.

General Practices obtain accreditation from an independent accreditation agency. The agency will be able to assist the process and provide support for requirements, the process usually takes 12-18 months.

The benefits of accreditation

Improving the quality and safety of service delivery to the community

Promotion of quality and safety of the standard of service provided to patients and the wider community
Provides confidence to patients and/or consumers
Reduction of business risk
Education and engagement of staff in the provision of quality service
The creation of a culture of quality

A competitive advantage over practices/service providers who are not accredited
Eligibility for access to the practice incentive program (PIP)
QI and CPD points for each general practitioner participating in accreditation
Compliance with regulatory requirements and national standards.

Accreditation Agencies

Accreditation Support

Supporting practices undertaking accreditation

Country SA PHN's Primary Care and Digital Support team provides support for practices undertaking accreditation for the first time, or for those undergoing re-accreditation. This support includes:

Deciding on an accrediting body
Enabling the practice to plan and implement policies and procedures
Providing templates and resources
Demonstrating available resources - AGPAL “Hub” and QPA Connect Plus websites. providing (capped) in-practice support to practices preparing for accreditation using the 5th Edition Standards
Sourcing relevant resources, including templates and guidelines

Published on: November 9, 2020

Last updated on: March 14, 2025