We have rigorous processes for identifying community needs. Each year, we look at the specific health needs of the people in our region, using more than 100 sources of population, health and service-usage data.

SEMPHN established an Organisational Narrative (Our Story) to help simplify our messaging, build staff and stakeholder engagement and improve relationships with service providers and general practices.

At SEMPHN, we employ experts in our field. Our workforce is diverse and includes allied health professionals, project and communications specialists, business and finance experts, contract officers and data analysts.

Our achievements over the past 12 months are testament to the agility and strength of those working on the frontline, especially our primary care workforce, who have continued to adopt innovative approaches to delivering care.

This year we’ve faced another year of significant challenges across the sector. Implementing significant changes to clinical and business practices while facing a pandemic and all manner of related challenges with great positive impact, has served to highlight the deep capacity and immense capability of primary care.

SEMPHN continues to assess the mental health needs of our community, including the impact from COVID, and service accessibility across the catchment to help provide appropriate care to support our most vulnerable community members.

Alcohol and other drug addiction continues to impact the south east community, with higher-than-average rates of mis-use among young people and adults who live in the local government areas of Port Phillip and Greater Dandenong.

SEMPHN, in partnership with the Victorian Government, is continuing to support communities as part of the Place-Based Trials to reduce the incidence of suicide through a coordinated place-based approach to suicide prevention across the LGAs of Greater Dandenong, Casey, Cardinia, Frankston, and the Mornington Peninsula.

The COVID pandemic has continued to have a significant impact on the wellbeing of young people resulting in increased demand for support. Responding to these needs has proved challenging. Workforce availability has been a major barrier in delivering vital services during a time when they are most needed.

General practices continue to be at the frontline of COVID, having to respond rapidly, adopting new and flexible approaches to primary care while also rapidly implementing a COVID-safe practice environment.

SEMPHN has been partnering with general practices and leading experts in chronic disease to help improve, manage and prevent chronic health conditions within our communities.

Want to find out more? Get in touch with us by phone or email.