HNECC PHN driving system-wide improvements in palliative and end-of-life care across the region

The Hunter New England and Central Coast Primary Health Network (HNECC PHN) has released its updated Palliative and End of Life Care Needs Assessment, reaffirming its leadership in strengthening access to high-quality, home-based care and driving long-term system reform across the region. Covering a diverse population of more than 1.36 million people across metropolitan, regional, rural and remote communities, the report provides a comprehensive, evidence-based roadmap to improve how palliative and end-of-life care is delivered between 2025 and 2028 under the Greater Choice for At Home Palliative Care (GCfAHPC) Program. The assessment confirms that demand for home-based palliative care, including care provided in private residences and aged care facilities, is rising significantly, driven by an ageing population and increasing prevalence of chronic and non-malignant conditions. While strong commitment exists across the health workforce, the report identifies persistent gaps in access, equity and coordination—particularly impacting rural and remote communities, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, culturally diverse populations, and those experiencing socioeconomic disadvantage. HNECC PHN Chief Executive Officer, Richard Nankervis said, “The assessment findings are clear, while there is strong commitment across the system, access to palliative and end-of-life care remains inconsistent and inequitable, particularly for people in rural and remote communities. “As a Primary Health Network, we are determined to confront these gaps head-on, using evidence to drive practical, system-wide improvements that ensure every person can access high-quality care, regardless of where they live.” The report highlights several system-wide challenges that continue to limit timely, high-quality care: Late identification and referral to palliative care, particularly for non-cancer conditions, reducing opportunities for early intervention and planning Fragmented care coordination and communication across providers, impacting continuity and shared decision-making Inconsistent access to after-hours support and symptom management, increasing avoidable hospital presentations Pressure on primary care, including workforce constraints, funding limitations and variable access to training and support tools Persistent inequities in access and outcomes across priority populations Limited support for families and carers, including gaps in health literacy, death literacy, system navigation and bereavement care In response, HNECC PHN has identified two core priority domains to guide investment and reform: 1. Strengthening primary care and system capability Enhancing workforce skills, confidence and sustainability Improving care coordination and referral pathways Expanding digital health and telehealth integration Increasing access to timely symptom management and after-hours care 2. Improving access, equity and consumer experience Ensuring more equitable access for priority populations Supporting culturally safe and responsive care Improving health literacy, death literacy and shared decision-making Strengthening support for families and carers, including bereavement services HNECC PHN will now progress a coordinated program of work aligned to these priorities, with a strong focus on measurable outcomes and system integration. Key next steps include: Refining and implementing targeted initiatives under the GCfAHPC Program Strengthening partnerships with Local Health Districts, primary care providers, non-government organisations and community stakeholders Monitoring impact through clear performance measures, including improved access, patient experience, system responsiveness and reduced unnecessary hospitalisations All activities will be delivered through the PHN’s established commissioning and governance frameworks, ensuring transparency, accountability and alignment with regional health needs. This assessment reinforces HNECC PHN’s central role in coordinating and strengthening the primary care system to better support people to receive care where they prefer—at home. By translating robust evidence into clear, targeted action, HNECC PHN is driving meaningful, system-wide improvements that will enhance the quality, equity and experience of palliative and end-of-life care for individuals, families and communities across the region. **No closing date provided. Please confirm with the issuer. **