Primary Health Care [PHC] provides patients access to health services and holistic care. While social determinants of health significantly influence patients’ overall health and wellbeing, General practitioners [Gps] often lack the time, expertise and resources to address the psychosocial or systemic issues affecting patients’ health. Social workers, on the other hand, focus on social justice, human rights and holistic well-being and are trained to address complex factors impacting patients. Yey, to date few social workers are working in Australian general practice settings.

This presentation is based on interviews with GPs who have worked in practices who employed social workers in North Queensland. A semi-structured interview guide was used to explore the participants’ observations of the benefits and challenges of social work in PHC settings, any noted patient outcomes and feedback, the impact of social work practice on patients, GPs and the clinic, and what facilitated social work practice in their general practice. Six GP participated in the qualitative data collection. Data were analysed thematically.

Findings highlight the value of social work supporting workflow of GPs, freeing up GP time to focus on medical issues and providing wrap around care for patients. GPs appreciated working in a multi-disciplinary team and recognised the value that social work added to holistic patient care.

The discussion explores the value of workload relief for GPs and the opportunity to advance holistic patient care particularly in rural and regional areas. Recommendations include securing funding for social workers in general practice, extending the model elsewhere and ensuring role clarity.