The progress in ensuring the sustainability and viability of general practices is noteworthy, yet significant hurdles still exist.
A recent assessment of the Sustainability and Viability Initiative (SAVI), launched by the Hunter New England Central Coast Primary Health Network (HNECC PHN), reveals some encouraging trends: financial pressures on practices have eased, the adoption of strategic planning has surged, and there is a notable improvement in workforce morale.
However, staffing issues continue to pose a serious challenge, and many practices find themselves burdened by administrative tasks. Alarmingly, about one-third of these practices struggle to keep up with their financial obligations.
The 2026 General Practice Business Viability Insights Report, available here, represents the second annual analysis conducted under SAVI. This comprehensive report highlights the changing landscape of general practice viability throughout the region, drawing from data obtained from 189 practices, including 164 that participated in both this year’s and last year’s assessments. It builds upon the foundational viability survey conducted in 2024.
Dr. Alison Koschel, PhD, who serves as the Executive Manager for Primary Care Workforce and Access at HNECC PHN, stated, “The latest report provides clear evidence that while substantial progress has been made and participation in the program remains robust, general practices are still grappling with considerable challenges.”
She further explained, “SAVI’s customized, data-centric approach equips practices to enhance their resilience, boost performance, and maintain their viability. Continued commitment to workforce development, operational enhancements, and financial backing is crucial for ensuring equitable access to primary care services across the Hunter New England Central Coast region.”
Dr. Koschel emphasized the ongoing issue of workforce retention as a critical barrier for practices. She suggested that addressing this requires focused strategies such as alleviating administrative workloads, enhancing workplace support mechanisms, and establishing pathways for professional growth for key personnel.
While some solutions may necessitate broader advocacy on behalf of general practitioners, these findings underscore the importance of PHN's role in supporting workforce initiatives. After all, the capacity of the workforce is fundamental to achieving improvements across the board in general practice.
Key Statistics Highlighted from the Check-in Survey:
- The percentage of practices experiencing financial stress has decreased from 49% in 2024 to 36% in 2025. Nevertheless, it’s concerning that 69% of practices still depend on WIP and PIP incentives as a significant part of their income.
- Strategic planning engagement has risen dramatically, from 22% to 74%, demonstrating enhanced business acumen and capability among practices.
- Workforce morale has shown an overall improvement, climbing from 41% to 58%, which suggests healthier team dynamics; however, issues like burnout remain prevalent, with 55% of practices reporting challenges in attracting and retaining clinical staff as a major obstacle to their sustainability.
- Practices face a heavy administrative load, particularly from phone calls and compliance requirements, coupled with a slow uptake of technology and a lack of integrated systems (such as phone and booking systems), which hampers efficiency.
- Nearly one-third of practices indicate difficulties in managing their bills, and 16% state they cannot afford to replace essential equipment.
- There are persistent gaps in digital health literacy and infrastructure, especially among smaller and rural practices.
- Impressively, 81% of practices evaluated the support received from SAVI as either "valuable" or "very valuable."
As we consider these findings, it raises several questions: What additional steps can be taken to alleviate the administrative burdens faced by practices? How can we better support workforce retention in a rapidly changing healthcare environment? Share your thoughts below!
