Review of Murray PHN Commissioning Data – First Nations Dual Diagnosis Services
Murray Primary Health Network
Who funded the project
Since 2018, Murray Primary Health Network (PHN) has been commissioning dual diagnosis services for First Nations peoples across six Aboriginal Community-Controlled Health Organisations (ACCHOs). These services support First Nations peoples experiencing both mental health and substance use challenges. Over the years, significant data has been shared with MPHN. Given anticipated changes to funding arrangements, a review is needed to help inform future commissioning arrangements.
Karabena Consulting was engaged by MPHN to carry out this review of the First Nations Dual Diagnosis service.
The initial stage comprised a comprehensive desktop review, analysing a range of documents including work plans and financial acquittals. Insights from this review informed the second stage, which involved interviews with Murray Primary Health Network staff to validate, clarify, and contextualise the preliminary findings.
A final report was presented outlining key recommendations based on identified barriers, enablers, strengths and areas for improvement for the consideration of Murray PHN, local ACCHOs and future commissioning bodies.
Summary
This project aimed to explore the enablers, barriers, outcomes and areas of improvement of MPHN’s First Nations Dual Diagnosis program.
Project Aims
To complete this project, Karabena Consulting:
Completed a desktop review
Conducted interviews with MPHN staff
Thematically analysed qualitative data from interviews and documentation
Performed trend analysis of financial documentation.
Methodologies
Outputs
The key outputs for this project were:
A desktop review.
A final report containing findings from the desktop review and interviews, with recommendations.
A slide deck detailing the project timeline, methods, and findings.
The findings from the review recognise and commend the significant efforts and ongoing commitment of MPHN and local ACCHOs in delivering dual diagnosis services and supporting the health and wellbeing of First Nations peoples. Building on this strong foundation, some of the key recommendations include:
For the ACCHOs:
Strengthen internal service continuity to minimise disruptions and maintain consistent client support
Lead co-design and reporting innovation to reduce the reporting burden while meeting accountability requirements
For Murray PHN (in any future role within the new arrangements):
Advocate for long-term, sustainable funding arrangements that reflect the needs of communities and service providers
Continue to amplify First Nations leadership and support self-determined approaches in service design and delivery
For the potential new commissioning body:
Prioritise First Nations governance
Value and build on existing partnerships
Support culturally responsive outreach and client engagement practices that are led by, and fit for First Nations communities.
Project Outcomes
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