Open Clinics have improved how patients access health information and care in secure settings. Traditionally, people in custody seek help by submitting a patient self-referral (PSR) paper form. This process can be slow, inconsistent across centres and heavily administrative, taking up to 62% of a nurse's shift.
In response to patient feedback, the project co-designed and rolled out a nurse-led Open Clinic model which allowed patients to see a nurse without an appointment. The model supports: real-time efficient triaging, reduced wait times for urgent concerns, enhanced communication between staff, better alignment with clinical priorities, and resource capacity. The pilot ran in three correctional centres, including Macquarie, Mid North Coast and Long Bay over a three-month period.
Results showed that 95% of patients had their health concerns addressed at the time of the open clinic and 94% indicated access to health services had improved. Duplicate paper form submissions also dropped to 2% within seven days of an Open Clinic visit. Many patients also received treatment during their initial visit, reducing the need for follow-up appointments and referrals.
Open Clinics have improved patient experience by removing access barriers and empowering patients to take back control of when they seek and receive care.
