In April 2010, Communio was contracted by the Department of Health and Ageing (DoHA) to undertake an external review of the National Rural Locum Program (NRLP) which comprises the Specialist Obstetrician Locum Scheme (SOLS), the General Practitioner Anaesthetist Locum Program (GPALS) and the Rural General Practitioner Locum Program (RGPLP), to assess the appropriateness, effectiveness and efficiency of the three programs.
Key findings from Stage 1 report concluded:
- That SOLS in its current form, is well established, running efficiently and effectively, and enjoys high levels of stakeholder satisfaction;
- SOLS is an appropriate method for providing obstetric relief to rural and remote specialists and GPs, and has strong support amongst canvassed stakeholders;
- SOLS has enabled rural obstetricians the opportunity to pursue leave for recreation, professional development and for emergencies such as illness, while maintaining continuity of local services for women.
- There is strong stakeholder feedback on the continued need for SOLS.
The report also highlights the likely consequences if SOLS was not to continue, including decreased numbers of rural and remote Specialist and GP obstetricians as a result of practitioner fatigue.
Since 2006, SOLS has continued to meet performance targets and this could not have been achieved without the support of every SOLS locum who has travelled to rural and remote areas of Australia to support their rural colleagues to take leave, whilst maintaining the access of rural women to quality local obstetric care.
Some positive feedback
“SOLS undoubtedly is better organised and more professional in organising locum placements.” SOLS Locum
“SOLS from the administrative point of view is excellent and helpful.” SOLS Locum
“Great broadening experience.” SOLS Locum
“As always thank you for everything you assisted us with in providing additional funding for the purpose of allowing our doctors to take leave and being able to replace them with such an excellent doctor. We can't sing her praises highly enough". SOLS Host
"It was such a relief to know that my practice wouldbe in good hands when I went of on maternity leave.The SOLS team were so helpful while I wasorganising my leave.” SOLS Host
