The best approach to most HJP problems is to approach them as a partnership.
In a 2022 tutorial, we took an experimental approach to the challenge of low referrals in health justice partnership. After being introduced to a simple but highly collaborative hypothesis testing tool, the group completed the first step – discussing all the possible reasons (hypotheses) for referrals being low. We stopped at 27!
Here are 3 hypotheses for low referrals and the related practice tips the tutorial group developed.
Hypothesis #1: Referrals may be low because the referral process is confusing and unclear, or conversely, it’s too prescriptive and rigid.
You can try:
- Talking as a partnership and making the process as simple and non-burdensome as possible. As one participant suggested, “take the labour out of the referral process.”
- Having a range of referral options available that are clearly communicated, coupled with an openness from legal partners to pick up referrals whatever way they come in. Requiring referrals to be made via a lengthy form can be a barrier for many health partners.
Hypothesis #2: Referrals may be low because your health partner has had to prioritise resources and time to COVID-related work and/or your legal support service may have been required to move offsite.
You can try:
- Both partners actively re-engaging the partnership by initiating regular, proactive communication about the change you have noticed.
- Re-exploring the potential for the legal partners to be onsite with health partners, as much as possible and suitable for your particular HJP, for face-to-face training, discussion and work. Discussing and reviewing this idea regularly together.
Hypothesis #3: Referrals may be low because your health partner is unsure of clients/patients’ legal needs.
You can try:
- Talking together about what you have noticed and why this may be happening.
- As a legal partner, offering or re-offering the idea of training for your health partner. Remember to ask about their needs and preferences for all relevant aspects of the proposed training (e.g. time, frequency, topics) rather than making any assumptions.
If you need more support, please email partnerships@healthjustice.org.au.
