The Commonwealth-backed coordinator of the region’s primary health care has launched a North Coast-wide search for innovative and high-performing projects in out-of-hospital care.

Entries will be reviewed by an expert panel, with finalists and winners to be announced at an Awards dinner at Coffs Harbour in September.

The North Coast Primary Health Network’s inaugural Primary Health Care Excellence Awards are designed to showcase the work of health care professionals such as GPs, allied health practitioners, community health workers and social services.

Project submissions will “honour the partnerships, teams and individuals who are working tirelessly to keep the people in our communities healthy and out of hospital,” said NCPHN’s Chief Executive, Dr Vahid Saberi.

“The Awards will provide an opportunity to showcase the considerable unseen efforts that contribute to improvements to health care provided outside of hospitals,” he added.

“NCPHN has an ongoing commitment to fostering and recognising excellence in primary health care… we would like to publicly congratulate those making a difference and say ‘we are proud of what you are doing’.”

There are four Award categories:

  • Innovation, Integration and Partnership.
  • Improving Health Care Access and Outcomes
  • Reducing Health Inequity
  • Promoting Healthy Living

All those working in health, social services and community organisations on the North Coast – Tweed Heads to Port Macquarie – are encouraged to submit their programs and projects for consideration by the award judges.

Submissions close at midday on Friday 3 June.