RACGP Standards for general practices (the Standards) 6th edition

The 6th edition provides an opportunity to strengthen safety and quality systems within general practice and support continuous improvement in patient care.

Accreditation under the NGPA Scheme currently uses the 5th edition of the Standards.

Information about arrangements for the 6th edition of the Standards will be provided in due course.

View the 6th edition

Implementing the 6th edition

General practices are encouraged to begin implementing the 6th edition.

Implementation means putting systems and processes in place to meet the Standards and is separate from accreditation assessment.

Early implementation will assist general practices to: 

• implement systems and processes that reflect contemporary best practice 
• strengthen patient safety and quality of care through alignment with new and revised requirements 
• support improved outcomes and experiences for patients and consumers 
• support readiness for future assessment.

General practices are encouraged to familiarise themselves with the 6th edition and consider how new and revised requirements may be incorporated into existing quality improvement activities.

Taking a planned approach to implementation will support readiness for any future assessment arrangements.

Transitioning to the 6th edition

To support effective transition to the 6th edition, stakeholders will need to be appropriately prepared and supported throughout the transition process.

We are working closely with the RACGP, the Australian Government Department of Health, Disability and Ageing (the Department), accrediting agencies, general practices and other key stakeholders to support a coordinated and smooth transition to the 6th edition.

Accrediting agencies will work directly with accredited general practices to explain any future assessment arrangements relating to the 6th edition and support practices in preparing for their next assessment. 

Under the NGPA Scheme, transition arrangements will:

• allow us to review and, where necessary, refine NGPA Scheme requirements to ensure they remain fit for purpose and aligned with the 6th edition, including the continuation of existing data collection, reporting and analysis mechanisms
• allow the Department to review and, where necessary, refine requirements for existing government-funded incentive programs and develop new program requirements, where required
• provide accrediting agencies, assessors, Primary Health Networks (PHNs), general practices and other stakeholders with sufficient time to undertake training, update systems and processes, and prepare for the assessment against the 6th edition. 

More information

For more information you can contact our Safety and Quality Advice centre or visit the RACGP Standards for general practices (6th edition) hub.