Traditional face-to-face cardiac and pulmonary based models of care across Metro North have rapidly changed to enable the continuation of these much-needed services.

With lessons learnt from previous innovative projects including the Integrated Care Innovation Fund (ICIF) and Befit 4 Lungs, the Complex Chronic Disease Team established home-based virtual rehabilitation within one week of pausing centre based programs.

Virtual rehabilitation enabled the continuation of care to current and newly referred patients and the for patients the experience of virtual care has been largely positive.

A recent client of the CCDT virtual Pulmonary Rehabilitation program stating:

“Living with COPD means I have difficulty breathing, limiting my ability to perform everyday activities, and before the program it was my belief that my COPD stopped me from exercising. The program opened my eyes to a new way of breathing …

“In the COVID 19 restrictions I am still able to go outside to exercise and I am connected to the team via the phone, I also have access to a home gym, where I can do my personalised program.

“I find the team very supportive even if I have something personal in my life going on, the staff are very understanding and supportive. Without the team my life would not be as enjoyable, and I believe I am leading my best life.”

To support clients to rehab at home CCDT has commenced virtual education where clients have the option of attending group education sessions at their local community health centre or in the comfort of their own home.