Description
Background:The burden on under-resourced remote healthcare services and staff burnout, highlights the need for innovative workforce solutions. Point-of-care (POC) testing by local community operators has been successful globally, however task-sharing in remote Australian settings remains unexplored.
Objectives:
This study aims to address whether non-clinical staff can be trained in Strep A POC testing at remote health services to determine whether enhanced confidence and competence will increase the health services’ POC testing capacity.
Methods:
Using a mixed methods design, the study will implement training in selected health services participating in the Strep Throat Rapid Assessment and Treatment (START) project.
Anticipated outcomes:
The development of this alternate workforce model may enable local employment opportunities for First Nations peoples and aims to strengthen health service delivery. Grounded in the principles of the Lowitja Evaluation Framework, the research prioritises partnerships with health services and support capacity building in culturally safe ways. If successful, an expansion into other infectious disease Molecular POC testing would be the next path to walk.
Significance
By aligning with the anticipated 2025 Medicare rebate changes for POC testing in remote settings, this study may provide the first evidence in Australia for molecular POC testing of Strep A. If successful, this model could provide the foundation for a sustainable POC workforce with a view to expand into other infectious disease POC testing. This initiative underscores the importance of leadership and workforce investment to close the gap in health outcomes, providing a model for culturally responsive and efficient health service delivery.
| Period | 16 Jun 2025 → 19 Jun 2025 |
|---|---|
| Event title | 4th International Indigenous Health & Wellbeing Conference |
| Event type | Conference |
| Location | Adelaide , AustraliaShow on map |
| Degree of Recognition | National |