Mrs Michaela Watts1, Ms Geraldine Millard1, Ms Belinda Ross1, Ms Anna Ring1, Dr Jonathan Beavers1,2, Ms Olivia Rofe1
1Eastern Health, Box Hill, Australia, 2Monash University, Clayton, Australia
Abstract:
The prolonged hospitalisation of medically stable patients awaiting National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) plan approval is a significant national issue. In 2022, the Victorian average time from medical stability to discharge for this cohort was 160 days. At our organisation, the median length of stay was 111 days as of March 2024.
To address this, a dedicated sub-acute unit was introduced on July 1, 2024, to co-locate NDIS-eligible patients while their applications were finalised, approved, and actioned. This co-location model enabled targeted allied health interventions, including streamlined care planning, proactive NDIS engagement, and optimised report writing. By March 2025, the median length of stay had reduced to 77 days—a 30% improvement.
The development of a specific Continuing Care MOC for this cohort integrates geriatric evaluation and management (GEM) principles, allied health support, and NDIS navigation to optimize outcomes. The model enhances collaboration between providers, disability services, and support networks, reducing hospital length of stay while ensuring patients receive individualized, person-centered care.
Co-location facilitated the team with greater interdisciplinary collaboration, timely decision-making, and increased efficiency in discharge planning. Patients reported improved clarity and engagement in their transition process, while staff reported greater confidence in navigating NDIS pathways.
This presentation will highlight the success and key outcomes of this model, the allied health-led strategies that reduced length of stay, benefits for patient flow, bed availability, and workforce capability. These findings demonstrate a scalable approach for other health services seeking to optimise hospital resources and improve discharge efficiency for NDIS-eligible patients.