Lightening the Load at Redcliffs Medical Centre

Redcliffs Medical Centre, like many practices, was balancing high GP workload with ongoing administrative tasks such as managing the clinical inbox. These routine demands pulled time and attention away from patient care.

With support from the Primary Care Taskforce and their PHO, Pegasus Health, Redcliffs welcomed medical student Aleks into the team as a Clinical Assistant. He received training in the Patient Management System, used a structured inbox delegation template, and worked closely with the team to establish clear workflows. Aleks also attended staff meetings to learn preferences and clarify processes.

The difference was immediate. With Aleks managing the inbox and administrative tasks, GPs could focus more on clinical care.

“Being able to delegate tasks to someone who is reliable and can manage the inbox has been a huge weight off our shoulders,” said Dr Felix Rueppell. “When you open your inbox and see that the more routine tasks have already been dealt with, it really lightens the workload.”

The wider team noticed the benefits too, with smoother workflows and less daily pressure. Dr Felix encouraged other practices to consider the model: “Once you are up and running, the rewards are well worth it.”

If your practice would like to learn more, new Toolkits are now available for both practices and students. These include checklists, tips, and training resources.

View the How-to Guides:

Practice Toolkit Student Toolkit

Practice Toolkit https://www.pegasus.health.nz/storage-uploads/public-documents/PCTF/Practice-Toolkits-for-Med-Students.pdf

Student Toolkit https://www.pegasus.health.nz/storage-uploads/public-documents/PCTF/Students-Toolkits-for-Med-Students.pdf