Allied health practitioners in Australian primary health care

Abstract

Allied health practitioners (AHPs) are a large and diverse group of health professionals who are integral to the healthcare system. Many work in primary health care, mainly in private practice. Utilisation of AHP services is higher among people with chronic diseases. AHPs are under-researched, and they often lack recognition for their contribution to health care. This RESEARCH ROUNDup provides an overview of AHPs in primary health care, particularly in Australia. There is a need for more research by and about AHPs, better integration into the health system, and more interprofessional education.