Research - Development of BEACH Statistical Evaluation Areas (SEAs)

Introduction

In the national BEACH program a sample of 1,000 GPs participate per year. The national data are widely published as the reference point about general practice activity.

However, GP Divisions need more localised data to assist them in evaluating the impact of their programs. We need a minimum of 40 participating GPs (on average) to describe the activities of a group of GPs (because of wide variance between individual GPs).

Few Divisions are of sufficient size to gain a minimum sample of 40 participating GPs per year. Exceptions are large Divisions such as Brisbane North.

Aim

To develop BEACH Statistical Evaluation Areas (SEAs) that are made up of multiple Divisions that are similar in terms of their classification in:

• the Australian standard geographical classification (ASGC);
• the Socio-economic index for areas (SEIFA);
• the Rural, Remote and Metropolitan Area classification (RRMA)

in a manner that provides sufficient statistical power to make valid comparisons and monitor trends in the local area.

Method

Queensland was selected as the trial State. Each postcode was allocated fully/ partially to a Division. For each Division we considered:

• average annual BEACH GP sample size
• geographic proximity to other Divisions
• pattern of SEIFA, RRMA class and ASGC of postcodes within each Division.

Results

We experienced difficulties with postcode splits across Divisions, and wide variation in SEIFA, RRMA and ASGC classes within any single Division. We developed a draft proposal of five SEAs for Queensland. Queensland Divisions of General Practice (QDGP) considered the proposal, and based on local knowledge suggested some changes to the SEA groupings. These were adopted. The revised proposal was distributed to all Queensland Divisions (through the QDGP) with a request for criticisms and comments. The suggestions were considered, but none were adopted because of their negative effect on other SEAs.

The final SEAs for Queensland are summarised below. The other states and territories will be reviewed as time and funding permits.