The evaluation of the Primary Health Network (PHN) After Hours Program aimed to assess how well the program was being delivered and whether it continues to be the right response in the current context. The evaluation used a mixed methods approach, including case studies of eight PHN localities, interviews with national stakeholder groups and PHNs, a survey of PHNs and service providers and analysis of MBS and PIP data, emergency department presentations and potentially preventable hospitalisations. We made recommendations to sharpen the program’s focus, improve accountability and support the sustainability of services. Our recommendations recognised the importance of retaining flexibility in the program to meet local needs but also the need to target gaps in particular geographic areas and specific population groups.
