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A research team, led by ICFHS Research Fellow Dr Shona Bates, with colleagues Dr Jialing Lin, Associate Professor Luke Allen, Associate Professor Michael Wright, and Professor Michael Kidd AO, undertook a review of primary care patient enrolment schemes around the world. This was completed to help understand what to expect from the introduction of MyMedicare - a patient enrolment scheme introduced in Australia in 2023 – that aims to improve continuity of care and enable the delivery of other primary care reforms. The review included schemes in 15 countries, each differing in form and operation. We found limited evidence that enrolment improved continuity of care; a large proportion of patients have a natural preference to continue to see the same physician – with or without enrolment. However, there was evidence enrolment supported the delivery of preventative care and other primary care reforms. Some groups were less likely to enrol, particularly if an alternative ‘walk in’ model of primary care was available. The review identified the enablers and barriers to enrolment and laid the foundation for future research required to understand the impact of patient enrolment in Australia.

This review was also featured in a recent podcast featuring Associate Professor Michael Wright. 

The review also featured in an article published in the Medical Republic.