Clinical service integration: a stocktake of the Australian experience

Abstract

Australia, in common with most developed countries, needs to reorientate its health system to meet the needs of the future. There is general acceptance that the current approach geared towards acute episodic care is no longer fi t for purpose. This article explores the concept of integration in healthcare in Australia and specifi cally describes the role of clinicians over the last fi ve years in brokering and supporting change in the way services are delivered.