Miss Tara Brady1, Sue-Ellen Hogg1, Kristi-Lee Muir1, Kiah Grubb1, Catherine Carnegie1
1Illawarra Shoalhaven Local Health District, , Australia
Abstract:
Limited and disjointed community rehabilitation services within the Illawarra region contributes to extended subacute length of stays. A 12-week pilot tested the feasibility of a non-admitted Allied Health-driven Rehab@Home service to support rehabilitation patients transitioning home earlier than expected based on their diagnostic criteria.
An interdisciplinary model of care was utilised, integrating virtual care, home visits and utilisation of allied health assistants. The model aimed to offer patients 3 or more allied health contacts per week for up to four patients for 2-4 weeks post-discharge. In a climate of financial austerity and with no new funding available, the need to overcome the cultural challenge of scarcity mindset was paramount. An innovative and collaborative approach was used to repurpose existing staffing (allied health, medical and administration), infrastructure, resources and governance.
Feasibility will be demonstrated through activity provided, patient reported experience measures, number of bed days saved including estimated cost savings, readmission and representation rates. We will share our approach, lessons learned and future scope for this work which aims to offer a sustainable model for earlier home rehabilitation whilst supporting access and flow through our inpatient facilities. The leadership implications of repurposing existing allied health services to address evolving needs and improve access will also be explored.