HNECC PHN's SAVI Initiative Shows Mixed Progress for General Practices
The Hunter New England Central Coast Primary Health Network (HNECC PHN)'s Sustainability and Viability Initiative (SAVI) has shown mixed results, according to its latest analysis. The initiative aims to support general practices in the region.
Report Highlights Reduced Stress, Persistent Challenges
The 2026 General Practice Business Viability Insights Report, which is the second annual SAVI analysis drawing data from 189 practices, indicates a positive shift with reduced financial stress, increased strategic planning, and improved workforce morale.
However, significant challenges persist. These include staffing difficulties, substantial administrative burdens, and approximately one-third of practices reporting trouble keeping up with bills.
Dr. Koschel Emphasizes Resilience and Investment
Dr. Alison Koschel, Executive Manager Primary Care Workforce and Access at HNECC PHN, acknowledged the progress and strong engagement while underscoring the substantial hurdles that general practices continue to face.
She emphasized SAVI's data-driven approach in helping practices build resilience and sustain viability.
Dr. Koschel also highlighted the crucial need for ongoing investment in workforce, operations, and financial support to ensure equitable access to primary care across the region. She noted that addressing workforce retention requires targeted strategies, such as reducing administrative load, enhancing workplace support, and creating clear professional development pathways.
Key Findings from the Check-In Survey
The latest check-in survey revealed several critical insights:
- Financial stress among practices decreased from 49 percent in 2024 to 36 percent in 2025. Despite this improvement, 69 percent of practices still rely heavily on WIP (Workforce Incentive Program) and PIP (Practice Incentive Program) incentives as core income sources.
- Strategic planning uptake significantly increased from 22 percent to 74 percent, reflecting improved business awareness among practices.
- Workforce morale saw an improvement from 41 percent to 58 percent. However, burnout persists, and 55 percent of practices report that attracting and retaining clinical staff remains a major barrier to their sustainability.
- Practices cited high administrative burden, particularly stemming from phone calls and complex compliance requirements. Limited technology adoption and a lack of integrated systems were also noted as hindrances to overall efficiency.
- Approximately one-third of practices reported difficulty with bill payments, and 16 percent indicated they could not afford to replace essential equipment.
- Gaps in digital health literacy and infrastructure continue, especially affecting rural and smaller practices.
- A strong endorsement for the initiative was observed, with 81 percent of practices rating SAVI support as "valuable" or "very valuable."