Australian Health Review[JOURNAL]
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200 papers
Estimating the true number of people with acute rheumatic fever and rheumatic heart disease from two data sources using capture-recapture methodology.
Thandrayen J, Stacey I, Oliver J … +3 more , Francia C, Katzenellenbogen JM, Wyber R
Aust Health Rev · 2024 Oct · PMID 39413827 · Publisher ↗
Objective In Australia, accurate case ascertainment of acute rheumatic fever (ARF) and rheumatic heart disease (RHD) diagnoses for disease surveillance and control purposes requires the use of multiple data sources, incl...
Objective In Australia, accurate case ascertainment of acute rheumatic fever (ARF) and rheumatic heart disease (RHD) diagnoses for disease surveillance and control purposes requires the use of multiple data sources, including RHD registers and hospitalisation records. Despite drawing on multiple data sources, the true burden of ARF/RHD is likely to be underestimated. Methods This study used capture-recapture methods to quantify the missing number of ARF/RHD cases in data from hospitals and jurisdictional RHD registers. Linked datasets comprised reported cases of ARF/RHD in register records and administrative hospital data. Results Capture-recapture analyses indicated the total number of new ARF/RHD cases in three Australian jurisdictions (Queensland, South Australia and Western Australia), among people aged 3-54years, was 3480 (95% CI=3366-3600) during 2011-2016. This included 894 (25.7%) individuals who were not listed in either the hospital or register datasets. Non-Indigenous, urban and older people with ARF/RHD were least likely to be identified in either the hospital or register data sources. Conclusions The 894 likely ARF/RHD cases our analyses detected that are not included in the routine surveillance datasets are concerning and quantify the magnitude and characteristics of under-notification to RHD registers in Australia, especially for groups that are not typically at high risk of ARF.
A quality improvement project to increase treatment rates of osteoporosis in general practice.
Bolton P, Seibel M, Moses D … +2 more , Moore M, Goodger B
Aust Health Rev · 2024 Oct · PMID 39413820 · Publisher ↗
Objective This study tests a model to improve the management of patients with an osteoporotic fracture. Methods Patients with fractures potentially due to osteoporosis were identified from imaging reports using computeri...
Objective This study tests a model to improve the management of patients with an osteoporotic fracture. Methods Patients with fractures potentially due to osteoporosis were identified from imaging reports using computerised near natural language processing. A coordinator notified the referring GP about the finding and provided follow-up to remind GPs of the need for management. This provided an opportunity to assess action taken by the GP. Results Near natural language processing efficiently detected fractures in patients at risk of osteoporosis. GPs reported that they are managing osteoporosis in over 40% of patients identified. Notification of GPs coincided with a small increase in osteoporosis management. Conclusion Information technology can identify patient populations with clinically important risks such as osteoporosis. Methods to engage GPs to optimally address this risk have yet to be developed.
Voluntary assisted dying: impacts on health professionals.
Lamba GT, LaBrooy C, Lewis S … +4 more , Olver I, Holmes A, Stewart C, Komesaroff P
Aust Health Rev · 2024 Dec · PMID 39401526 · Publisher ↗
Objective The introduction and implementation of voluntary assisted dying (VAD) legislation represents a major shift in Australian health policy. Given potential repercussions for health professionals, understanding how...
Objective The introduction and implementation of voluntary assisted dying (VAD) legislation represents a major shift in Australian health policy. Given potential repercussions for health professionals, understanding how they are being affected by this legislation is important to guide future policy and legislative changes. This study aims to explore the perspectives and experiences of Australian health professionals on VAD and compare impacts on those working under different state legislation in Victoria and WA. Methods Data were collected using a cross-sectional survey design, targeting health professionals nationally, primarily doctors and nurses. The survey had closed and open-ended response options, was informed by previous publications and was piloted prior to further roll-out. Recruitment was via professional networks and social media. Quantitative data were descriptively analysed and qualitative data were coded using NVivo and thematically analysed. Results There was a final sample size of 223. Impacts on clinicians identified include inadequate remuneration, a need for ongoing support and the recognition of barriers to mandatory training. Conclusions Impacts on health practitioners, if not addressed, have future implications for workforce sustainability. Increasing numbers of trained VAD practitioners may enable distribution of clinical load and prevent burnout. VAD practitioners are not being appropriately remunerated, which could be addressed by introducing dedicated Medicare Benefits Schedule items for VAD. Attention should also be given to incentivising training, including continuing professional development accreditation and appropriate funding. Strategies to support staff could include debriefing, mentoring, peer support and psychological consultations.
Leading innovation in transdisciplinary care.
Chadwick M, Hemler JR, Crabtree BF
Aust Health Rev · 2024 Dec · PMID 39396812 · Publisher ↗
Background Benefits of effective team-based working in healthcare settings are well established, with the ultimate form being transdisciplinary teams. Achieving transdisciplinary teams at the large organisation or system...
Background Benefits of effective team-based working in healthcare settings are well established, with the ultimate form being transdisciplinary teams. Achieving transdisciplinary teams at the large organisation or system level has not been extensively studied. Purpose To examine and describe exemplar organisations where transdisciplinary working was enabled and that can be reproduced in other organisations. Methods An expert panel reached consensus on three healthcare organisations in the USA that exemplified transdisciplinary working. Available public information about each organisation was reviewed and site visits with direct observation and interviews were conducted with two of the three exemplar sites (the third completed remotely due to the onset of COVID-19). The process of immersion-crystallisation was used to review the collated material and to identify key themes that were then repeatedly checked with the expert panel. Results Consistent themes were identified across all three organisations, although they each arrived at these commonalities via distinctly different routes. All had a clear and shared creation story as to how they came about as an entity, which was supported by consistent longitudinal leadership. This enabled an environment whereby each organisation created its own language that reflected their culture as an organisation, thus continually reinforcing the uniqueness of their organisation. Conclusions Large healthcare organisations can achieve the concepts of transdisciplinary practice. While no single achievement pathway was identified, common themes noted were a clear creation story, consistent leadership, and building a language that reflected the organisation.
The Living Well, Living Longer program: an integrated care strategy to improve the health of people living with severe mental illness.
Simpson A, Parcsi L, McDonald A
Aust Health Rev · 2024 Dec · PMID 39396811 · Publisher ↗
Living Well, Living Longer (The Program) is an integrated care strategy to improve the physical health of people living with severe mental illness within a public mental health service. The significant life expectancy ga...
Living Well, Living Longer (The Program) is an integrated care strategy to improve the physical health of people living with severe mental illness within a public mental health service. The significant life expectancy gap experienced by this cohort is largely attributed to higher rates of cardiovascular disease and modifiable risk factors. The Program addresses this by guiding people through the four stages of screening, detection, treatment initiation, and ongoing management of coexisting chronic health conditions. The Program adopted an integrated care approach to ensure the provision of appropriate and coordinated care across hospital and primary care services. Key care pathways include a cardiometabolic health assessment clinic, shared care with general practitioners, oral health services partnership and employment of peer support workers, dietitians, exercise physiologists, and smoking cessation to provide targeted community support and interventions. There has been strong engagement with the care pathways introduced since The Program's inception in 2013 and evaluation is currently underway to consider the impact on cardiometabolic health outcomes for participants. Critical to The Program's effectiveness has been engagement with lived experience expertise, multidisciplinary collaboration, and strong executive support. However, significant challenges persist amid an Australian public health crisis characterised by reducing rates of free primary healthcare access for people living with severe mental illness and enduring communication challenges between primary and secondary health services. With the implementation of MyMedicare and the imminent Single Digital Patient Record across NSW Health, we stand at a critical juncture. It is imperative to establish robust systems to enhance care for this vulnerable population.
Response to 'A collaborative approach to support people with a disability living in Australian group homes during the COVID-19 pandemic: a case study'.
Daungsupawong H, Wiwanitkit V
Aust Health Rev · 2024 Dec · PMID 39396758 · Publisher ↗
Abstract loading — click title to view on PubMed.
Feasibility of an allied health led, workplace delivered Long COVID service for hospital staff: a mixed-methods study.
D'Souza AN, Granger CL, Calulo Rivera Z … +7 more , Burke A, Ngwenya R, Struck C, Merrett M, Fazio TN, Juj G, Peiris CL
Aust Health Rev · 2024 Dec · PMID 39374592 · Publisher ↗
Objective This study aimed to evaluate the feasibility of a workplace-delivered outpatient multidisciplinary service (ReCOV) for staff experiencing post COVID-19 condition ('Long COVID'). Methods A mixed-methods study of...
Objective This study aimed to evaluate the feasibility of a workplace-delivered outpatient multidisciplinary service (ReCOV) for staff experiencing post COVID-19 condition ('Long COVID'). Methods A mixed-methods study of staff at a large, tertiary hospital with Long COVID who attended the service was conducted. Participants completed questionnaires to determine baseline symptoms and were offered allied health appointments for up to 12weeks each based on clinical indication. Acceptability, implementation, practicality and limited efficacy were evaluated via one-on-one semi-structured interviews and analysed using inductive thematic analysis. Limited efficacy was evaluated via pre- and post-questionnaires and demand via multidisciplinary utilisation. Results Twenty-three (median age 37 [interquartile range 30-45] years, 52% female) participants were included. Participants had appointments with a median of 4 [3-5] different professions; most commonly exercise physiology (n =19, 83%), occupational therapy (n =17, 74%) and neuropsychology (n =15, 65%). Median time spent on the ReCOV service was 15 [9-19] weeks. Thirteen semi-structured interviews were completed and analysed. Participants valued ReCOV for being a COVID-19 specific, convenient, flexible and multidisciplinary service at their workplace. Participants preferred the service to have been available for longer than 12weeks to achieve further benefits as many participants perceived little change in physical health. Conclusions Attending a multidisciplinary service located at their workplace was feasible for staff to manage post COVID-19 symptoms. Further research is required to confirm the efficacy on patient outcomes.
Models of care for voluntary assisted dying: a qualitative study of Queensland's approach in its first year of operation.
White BP, Ward A, Feeney R … +2 more , Ley Greaves L, Willmott L
Aust Health Rev · 2024 Dec · PMID 39370570 · Publisher ↗
Objective Voluntary assisted dying (VAD) began in Queensland in January 2023 but little is known about its practical operation. This research examined models of care for providing VAD in Queensland. Methods Semi-structur...
Objective Voluntary assisted dying (VAD) began in Queensland in January 2023 but little is known about its practical operation. This research examined models of care for providing VAD in Queensland. Methods Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 24 participants involved with VAD delivery across Queensland's 16 Health and Hospital Services (HHSs). Participants included HHS VAD Coordinators, nurse practitioners and nurses who acted as administering practitioners, and Queensland VAD Support and Pharmacy Service (QVAD SPS) staff. Results Five themes about Queensland VAD models of care were developed: VAD is accessed almost exclusively through the public sector via HHSs, influenced by a Health Service Directive; local models of care vary; nurses play significant roles facilitating access to and providing VAD; QVAD SPS has been instrumental supporting HHSs and ensuring statewide access as back-up VAD provider; and VAD services need more resourcing. Conclusions The Queensland approach to providing VAD has been largely successful in ensuring patient access across the state. However, it differs from previous Australian VAD models with access predominantly through the public sector, greater roles played by nurse practitioners/nurses, and VAD being provided by QVAD SPS. Under-resourcing and consistency in provision of VAD services remain challenges.
Evaluating patient experience and healthcare utilisation in cytoreductive surgery and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy.
Siu A, Steffens D, Ansari N … +5 more , Karunaratne S, Solanki H, Ahmadi N, Solomon M, Koh C
Aust Health Rev · 2024 Oct · PMID 39370564 · Publisher ↗
Objective Approximately 30% of Australians reside in rural communities, where accessing healthcare facilities can be challenging due to considerable distance. This can result in disparities in healthcare equity, subseque...
Objective Approximately 30% of Australians reside in rural communities, where accessing healthcare facilities can be challenging due to considerable distance. This can result in disparities in healthcare equity, subsequently increasing risk of adverse health outcomes, delayed diagnosis, and diminished quality of life. These geographical constraints may be exacerbated in advanced cancers for which treatment is available only at selected centres with appropriate expertise. The aim of this study was therefore to explore the impact of patient residence on experience and healthcare utilisation following cytoreductive surgery (CRS) and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC). Methods A retrospective study examined consecutive CRS and HIPEC patients at Royal Prince Alfred hospital from 2017 to 2022. Patients were stratified as metropolitan and regional based on their postcode. Demographics, experiential, and healthcare utilisation data were collected at multiple time points. Statistical analysis included chi-squared and T -tests. Results Of the 317 participants, 228 (72%) were from metropolitan and 89 (28%) from regional areas. Regional patients tended to rate their hospital experience as 'very good' (P =0.016). Metropolitan patients were more compliant with surgical follow-up (P <0.001). No other differences were observed in patient characteristics, experience or healthcare utilisation. Conclusions The geographical location of patients undergoing CRS and HIPEC for peritoneal malignancies at a major tertiary referral centre did not significantly influence their experience or healthcare utilisation outcomes. Future studies should evaluate long-term healthcare service utilisation or the ramifications of reduced follow-up on recurrence and survival, which will contribute to a deeper understanding of resource allocation in metropolitan and regional Australia, and illuminate its impact on clinical outcomes.
: Variation in direct healthcare costs to the health system by residents living in long-term care facilities: a Registry of Senior Australians study.
Khadka J, Ratcliffe J, Caughey G … +5 more , Air T, Wesselingh S, Corlis M, Evans K, Inacio M
Aust Health Rev · 2024 Oct · PMID 39361527 · Publisher ↗
Abstract loading — click title to view on PubMed.
Spatial clusters of potentially preventable hospitalisations and access to allied health services in South Western Sydney: a geospatial study.
Gifford J, Mazumdar S, Jennings M … +2 more , Jalaludin B, Dennis S
Aust Health Rev · 2024 Dec · PMID 39348876 · Publisher ↗
Objective To explore the association between geographic access to allied health services and potentially preventable hospitalisations. Methods This is a retrospective observational study. Adults aged 18years or older wit...
Objective To explore the association between geographic access to allied health services and potentially preventable hospitalisations. Methods This is a retrospective observational study. Adults aged 18years or older with a potentially preventable hospitalisation for a chronic condition(s) to a public hospital in South Western Sydney Local Health District between 1 July 2016 and 30 June 2019 were identified from the Secure Analytic for Population Health and Intelligence portal at NSW Health. Locations of allied health amenities or practices in the same geographic area were identified from the 2019 National Health Service Directory. Geospatial analysis was used to identify geographic hotspots and coldspots of potentially preventable hospitalisations. Association with access to allied health services was investigated using linear models. Results Hotspots of potentially preventable hospitalisations were significantly more disadvantaged than coldspots. Hotspots also had poorer access to allied health services than coldspots. Conclusion In South Western Sydney, populations with higher burden of chronic disease, as measured through preventable hospitalisations, have poorer access to allied health services than populations with lesser need.
Utilisation of Medicare chronic disease management item numbers for people with cancer in Queensland, Australia.
Rahman MM, Jahan S, Koczwara B … +5 more , Iddawela M, Chan RJ, Thornton-Benko E, Garvey G, Hart NH
Aust Health Rev · 2024 Dec · PMID 39348875 · Publisher ↗
Objective Chronic disease is common in people with cancer. However, the utilisation of Medicare chronic disease management (CDM) items for cancer patients in Australia remains unexplored. This study investigates Medicare...
Objective Chronic disease is common in people with cancer. However, the utilisation of Medicare chronic disease management (CDM) items for cancer patients in Australia remains unexplored. This study investigates Medicare CDM item numbers relating to people with cancer, including general practitioner (GP) and allied health CDM item numbers, and any associated sociodemographic factors. Methods Data from 86,571 people with cancer registered in the Queensland Cancer Registry between July 2011 and June 2015 and the CDM items codes from Medical Benefits Scheme records until 2018 were analysed. This includes utilisation of General Practitioner Management Plans (GPMP) and Team Care Arrangements (TCAs), reviews of GPMPs and TCAs, and engagement with allied health services until June 2018 following a cancer diagnosis. Results In total 47,615 (55%) and 43,286 (50%) people with cancer initiated at least one GPMP and TCA, respectively, with 31,165 (36%) receiving at least one review, and 36,359 (42%) utilising at least one allied health service (e.g. physiotherapists (41%), podiatrists (27%), exercise physiologists (19%)) with variations by cancer type. While people with cancer from disadvantaged socioeconomic groups had a higher likelihood of receiving GPMP (odds ratio, OR: 1.16, 95% confidence interval, CI: 1.11-1.21) and TCA (OR: 1.12, 95% CI: 1.07-1.16), they were less likely to utilise allied health services (OR: 0.89, 95% CI: 0.85-0.93). People with cancer living in remote areas were less likely to receive TCA (OR: 0.84, 95% CI: 0.80-0.88) or utilise allied health services (OR: 0.63, 95% CI: 0.60-0.67) than those in metropolitan areas. Conclusion Our findings underscore the need to examine uptake and implementation patterns of CDM items, especially in relation to clinical, social, and service provider-level factors and related potential barriers. Further exploration is warranted to understand whether people with cancer's care needs are being met and ways to optimise the supportive care of these people.
Predicting hospital bed utilisation for post-surgical care by means of the Monte Carlo method with historical data.
Wong A, Eley R, Corry P … +2 more , Hoad B, Yarlagadda P
Aust Health Rev · 2024 Dec · PMID 39313214 · Publisher ↗
Objective This study aim was to develop a predictive model of bed utilisation to support the decision process of elective surgery planning and bed management to improve post-surgical care. Methods This study undertook a...
Objective This study aim was to develop a predictive model of bed utilisation to support the decision process of elective surgery planning and bed management to improve post-surgical care. Methods This study undertook a retrospective analysis of de-identified data from a tertiary metropolitan hospital in Southeast Queensland, Australia. With a reference sample from 2years of historical data, a model based on the Monte Carlo method has been developed to predict hospital bed utilisation for post-surgical care of patients who have undergone surgical procedures. A separate test sample from comparable data of 8weeks of actual utilisation was employed to assess the performance of the prediction model. Results Applying the developed prediction model to an 8-week period test sample, the mean percentage error of the prediction was 1.5% and the mean absolute percentage error 5.4%. Conclusions The predictive model developed in this study may assist in bed management and the planning process of elective surgeries, and in so doing also reduce the likelihood of Emergency Department access block.
Chief executive officers retention model for Australian hospitals.
Mathew N, Liu CG, Khalil H
Aust Health Rev · 2024 Dec · PMID 39307563 · Publisher ↗
Objective This study aims to develop a comprehensive chief executive officer (CEO) retention model for Australian hospitals, addressing high turnover rates by integrating key retention strategies to promote organisationa...
Objective This study aims to develop a comprehensive chief executive officer (CEO) retention model for Australian hospitals, addressing high turnover rates by integrating key retention strategies to promote organisational stability and enhance patient care. Methods The study employed a sequential exploratory design with four stages: a scoping review, qualitative interviews, a quantitative survey, and comprehensive data analysis. The scoping review examined existing literature on CEO turnover and retention. Qualitative interviews with 14 Australian hospital CEOs provided in-depth insights. A quantitative survey with 51 CEOs validated the findings. Data triangulation ensured a robust and contextually relevant model aligned with Transformational Leadership Theory and a systems approach. Results Five key factors influencing CEO retention were identified: mutual respect and clear roles between CEOs and boards, fostering a positive organisational culture, competitive rewards, robust recruitment and retention practices, and ongoing professional development and mentorship. The model emphasises a supportive environment, equitable compensation, effective succession planning, and leadership development. Findings indicate a holistic approach addressing both professional environment and personal growth is essential for improving CEO retention rates. Conclusions The CEO retention model provides practical solutions to reduce turnover and enhance stability in Australian hospitals. By incorporating Transformational Leadership Theory and a systems approach, the model offers a comprehensive framework that addresses the multifaceted nature of CEO retention. Future research should refine these strategies and explore their applicability in different healthcare settings to further enhance effectiveness.
Utility of a digital app to enhance patient-nurse communications and patient involvement in bedside handover: patient and nurse perceptions.
Casey P, Yuen E, Liskaser R … +5 more , Blencowe P, Boyd L, Abdelrazek M, Wang Z, Considine J
Aust Health Rev · 2024 Dec · PMID 39288901 · Publisher ↗
Objective This study aimed to explore patient and nurse perceptions of using a prototype co-designed app to support patient-nurse communication and patient engagement in bedside handover. Methods This qualitative descrip...
Objective This study aimed to explore patient and nurse perceptions of using a prototype co-designed app to support patient-nurse communication and patient engagement in bedside handover. Methods This qualitative descriptive study evaluated usability of the app with a convenience sample of patient-nurse dyads in a 22-bed medical/oncology ward, during morning shifts. Participants were nurses, and patients proficient in English but without cognitive impairment or physical or mental distress. Patients entered healthcare questions and preferences into the app, nurses acknowledged the information in the app and responded during their usual workflow. Patient comfort level with app use was surveyed. Handovers were observed, and patient involvement rated. After handover, semi-structured interviews and feedback surveys on app usability were conducted. Interviews were recorded, transcribed, and then analysed thematically. Survey data were analysed using descriptive statistics. Results Patient-nurse dyads (n =18) used the app between March and May 2023. Patients were mostly older (median 69.5years; IQR 52.3, 75), female, and frequent users of smartphones. Nurses were mostly younger (median 23years; IQR 21, 40) and female. Five themes were identified, which indicated that using the app empowered patients to engage in healthcare communications, facilitated opportunities for patient-centred information sharing, and refocused nurses' attention onto patient-centred care. Views differed on the app's influence on patient involvement in handover. Surveys (n =36, 100%) indicated that the interface was easy to navigate, features were useful, and only minor amendments were suggested. Conclusion This prototype app shows potential to facilitate patient-centred communication and patient engagement with health care, including bedside handover. With further refinement and testing, this app could enhance experiences of care and reduce harm from miscommunication.
The treatment gap for deep brain stimulation in Parkinson's disease: a comparative analysis of cost and utilisation in high-income countries.
Stein A, Higgins N, Gajwani M … +1 more , Gericke CA
Aust Health Rev · 2024 Oct · PMID 39278648 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVE: Parkinson's disease (PD) is one of the most prevalent neurodegenerative disorders, globally affecting approximately 120 per 100,000 people by age 70. Deep brain stimulation (DBS) is a US Federal Drug Administr...
OBJECTIVE: Parkinson's disease (PD) is one of the most prevalent neurodegenerative disorders, globally affecting approximately 120 per 100,000 people by age 70. Deep brain stimulation (DBS) is a US Federal Drug Administration (FDA)-approved and highly effective treatment for late-stage PD. However, country-specific reimbursement regulations and health policies may affect access to PD-DBS. We aimed to evaluate the uptake rate and 'treatment gap' for DBS across high-income countries. METHODS: We reviewed previous literature to investigate the cost and utilisation of PD-DBS in high-income countries across Asia, Europe, Oceania, and North America (Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Japan, Korea, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Spain, Switzerland, UK, and USA). Using previous estimates of DBS candidate eligibility rates, we calculated theoretical DBS uptake rates and treatment gaps nationally. RESULTS: PD-DBS utilisation was highest in Australia and the USA and lowest in Korea and New Zealand. The total cost of PD-DBS in the first 12 months was highest in the USA and France and lowest in the UK and Germany. The utilisation rate (i.e. uptake rate) of PD-DBS (% DBS surgeries per PD case) was highest in Australia and the USA, and lowest in New Zealand and the UK, where the treatment gap reflected these trends. CONCLUSIONS: Our results highlight differences in access to DBS for PD patients among high-income countries, which we discuss in the context of health systems. Better access to effective PD treatments such as DBS is critical given the increasing prevalence of PD in an ageing world and the associated, avoidable morbidity.
A collaborative approach to support people with a disability living in Australian group homes during the COVID-19 pandemic: a case study.
Everingham J, Todd S, Lo SY … +1 more , Naganathan V
Aust Health Rev · 2024 Oct · PMID 39278646 · Publisher ↗
In this case study we describe how Sydney Local Health District (SLHD) Disability Inclusion and Advice Service (DIAS) provided support to disability group homes during the COVID-19 Delta and Omicron waves. The study prov...
In this case study we describe how Sydney Local Health District (SLHD) Disability Inclusion and Advice Service (DIAS) provided support to disability group homes during the COVID-19 Delta and Omicron waves. The study provides insights into group home providers' experience of supports implemented by SLHD and other stakeholders. A mixed method approach was undertaken that included analysing data from a database and electronic medical records and a survey of disability group home managers. DIAS developed a range of processes to support prevention, outbreak preparedness and response. This included developing a Disability Shared Living COVID-19 Pathway, engaging with group home providers through a fortnightly Community of Practice, assisting with improving vaccination status and procuring personal protective equipment. During an outbreak DIAS provided a 24 h, 7 days per week on call support, coordinated outbreak management team meetings and collaborated with several internal and external stakeholders. SLHD infection prevention and control nurses were recruited to undertake a process of reviewing outbreak management plans and providing support during an outbreak. Most disability providers (86%) reported that they felt very prepared to manage outbreaks at the time of the survey (August 2022) compared with the pre-Delta wave, for which 36% reported feeling 'not prepared'. The proportion who rated the support from the stakeholders as very supportive/supportive was as follows: SLHD (100%), NSW Health (64%), National Disability Insurance Agency (50%) and National Disability Insurance Scheme Quality & Safeguards Commission (37%). Our case study provides insights into the support that LHDs can provide to disability homes in response to future outbreaks.
Clinical care ratios: differences in allied health roles in New Zealand.
McNicholl SG, Reid D, Bright F
Aust Health Rev · 2024 Oct · PMID 39261274 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVE: Allied health workforce planning is difficult and needs to be informed by data. Clinical care ratios (CCR) are commonly used to differentiate between clinical and non-clinical demands. This study aimed to iden...
OBJECTIVE: Allied health workforce planning is difficult and needs to be informed by data. Clinical care ratios (CCR) are commonly used to differentiate between clinical and non-clinical demands. This study aimed to identify trends within and across allied health disciplines and determine if the CCR differed by allied health discipline within one New Zealand district. METHODS: Means of CCR data across six allied health roles over 1 year were compared using a one-way ANOVA. Post hoc analysis was conducted to determine role differences. RESULTS: There were statistically significant differences between the CCR of the six allied health disciplines. Both occupational therapy and physiotherapy had bimodal distributions of CCR. Allied health assistants had the lowest mean and median CCR. CONCLUSIONS: Non-clinical activity represents a significant proportion of allied health activity within the New Zealand hospital system. Insights into the CCR of allied health disciplines may support more effective workforce planning and enable service leaders to match the right task to the right profession.
Accreditation as a lever for change in the development of the collaborative practitioner in the Australian health system.
Kent F, Cardiff L, Clark B … +5 more , Gustavs J, Jolly B, Maundu J, Wilkinson G, Meiklejohn S
Aust Health Rev · 2024 Dec · PMID 39222929 · Publisher ↗
Objective Patient expectations in the Australian healthcare system are for coordinated, collaborative practice. There is a need for education institutions, health services, accreditation authorities, and consumers to wor...
Objective Patient expectations in the Australian healthcare system are for coordinated, collaborative practice. There is a need for education institutions, health services, accreditation authorities, and consumers to work together to achieve this goal. As part of a larger body of work, we sought to understand how these stakeholders contribute to the development of collaborative healthcare practice. Method Nineteen focus groups were conducted in 2022 with 84 participants consisting of education providers (n =62), consumers (n =10), representatives from the Health Profession's Education Standing Group (n =8), and health service practitioners (n =4). Framework analysis was initially undertaken to understand facilitators of, and barriers to, collaborative practice and learning. In a secondary analysis, the themes were re-organised according to the Bolman and Deal domains of organisational practice, to make explicit the structural, human resource, political, and symbolic factors deemed useful for re-imaging a process for learning about and incentivising collaborative practice. Results There are multiple factors across healthcare settings that both facilitate and challenge the development of collaborative practice. Co-location of professions and participation in formal interprofessional processes such as team meetings and handovers facilitated learning collaborative practice, although traditional cultures which perpetuate siloed models of healthcare, power differentials between the professions, funding structures, and information sharing limited opportunities. The 'value' of collaborative practice was facilitated through both consistent curriculum messages throughout health professional courses and positive role modelling. Conclusions Education institutions, health service practitioners, accreditation authorities, and consumers can work together to facilitate the development of collaborative practice through attention to policy and processes, curriculum activities, student participation, health service activities and practice, and resource allocation.
Chronic diseases and their behavioural risk factors among South Asian immigrants in Australia.
Nisar M, Kolbe-Alexander T, Khan A
Aust Health Rev · 2024 Sep · PMID 39218623 · Publisher ↗
Objectives The prevalence of chronic diseases among immigrants varies across different ethnic groups attributed to the disparities in their risk factors. This study aimed to explore the prevalence and correlates of chron...
Objectives The prevalence of chronic diseases among immigrants varies across different ethnic groups attributed to the disparities in their risk factors. This study aimed to explore the prevalence and correlates of chronic diseases among the rapidly growing South Asian population in Australia. Methods An online survey was administered (2020-2021) among South Asian immigrants in Australia. Diagnosed chronic diseases, smoking habits, physical activity, alcohol consumption, body mass index, and fruit and vegetable intake were assessed. A multivariable logistic regression model was used to examine factors associated with chronic disease. Results Overall, 50% of the study participants had one chronic disease and 39% had more than one chronic disease (n =282). Back pain (30%), depression (22%), diabetes (21%), hypertension (19%), and heart disease (12%) were the most reported diseases. Approximately 78% of participants were insufficiently active and 38% regularly consumed alcohol. Approximately three-quarters consumed fruits and vegetables less than once per day. Multivariable analyses showed that those who were aged more than 50years (OR=4.38, 95% CI 1.66-11.56), consumed alcohol more than once/month (OR=3.25, 95% CI 1.17-8.96), and ate less than one serving of vegetables/day (OR=2.94, 95% CI 1.19-7.26) had higher odds of having two or more chronic diseases. Conclusions Fifty percent of study participants presented with preventable diseases, signifying a substantial health burden. Public health interventions should primarily focus on reducing alcohol intake and increasing fruit and vegetable consumption, particularly among individuals of advanced age, to reduce the overall burden on the healthcare system.
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