The community health sector in Victoria, Australia: an evolving model of primary health care

Using complexity theory as an analytical frame, this thesis explores the challenges, organisational responses and perceived value-add of independent community health organisations, as a component of the primary health care system in the state of Victoria, Australia. Nested case studies were used to explore the two-way relationship between evolving contexts, shifting boundaries and the organisational responses of independent community health organisations. Two system-level action areas are put forward, which could enhance the ability of governments and organisations to operationalise comprehensive models of primary health care.