Mrs Alison Maclean1
1Sir Charles Gairdner Osborne Park Health Care Group, Nedlands, Australia
Biography:
Alison MacLean is the Deputy Head of Department at Sir Charles Gairdner Osborne Park Health Care Group (SCGOPHCG).
Her areas of specialist clinical practice have been in relation to liver and renal transplant patients, conducted as part of her work in the areas of Renal, Hepatology and Gastroenterology. She is a keen educator providing training and support to staff to build their clinical expertise in this field.
Her constant promotion of carers rights and advocating for patients needs continue to be reflected in her role. This has been recognised by the local awards she has received over the past years.
Abstract:
The purpose of the presentation:
This presentation examines the integration of the Social Work role within the newly established Kidney Support Clinic. The focus is on assisting patients and families in understanding their options for managing chronic kidney disease, with emotional support and counselling to make informed decisions confidently.
The nature and scope of the topic:
The Kidney Support Clinic addresses a critical gap in managing patients undergoing or considering dialysis. Recognising transplantation as the sole alternative to dialysis, the presentation will share organ donation statistics, highlighting donation rates and extended transplant wait times. Patients explore practical and emotional aspects of their choices, including facing death without dialysis.
The issue or problem under consideration:
Key data will reveal the primary concerns of patients and families about commencing, continuing, or stopping dialysis. The discussion will address the emotional and practical challenges of decisions around death, focusing on patient autonomy, quality of life, and advanced care planning.
The outcome of the conclusion reached:
The involvement of Social Workers in the Kidney Support Clinic has received significant appreciation from patients, families, and staff. By addressing crucial aspects such as patient choice, life quality, and advanced care planning, Social Workers ensure a comprehensive, empathetic approach, aiding individuals in navigating end-of-life decision-making with clarity and compassion.