Innovative aged care partnership unlocks hospital beds
The Prince Charles Hospital Director of Operations Geoff Grima with Anglicare Chief Operating Officer Aged and Community Services Kane Singh celebrating the innovative aged care partnership.
An innovative public-private partnership between The Prince Charles Hospital (TPCH) and Anglicare Southern Queensland is helping aged care patients get out of hospital sooner and freeing up much-needed beds faster.
TPCH Social Work Long Stay Clinical Lead Jenny Kirby said an innovative new model of care with the hospital and St Martin’s Residential Aged Care at Taigum was providing interim care for up to 14 medically stable patients who were clinically ready to be discharged from hospital but still waiting for a permanent aged care placement.
“St Martin’s is providing TPCH inpatients with welcome, temporary respite, away from the busy hospital environment,” Jenny said.
“They remain inpatients of TPCH and continue to receive care from our clinical team, including a geriatrician, nurse practitioner and pharmacist.
“Patients are also able to access an occupational therapist and allied health assistant to help maintain functioning and cognition.
“Intensive support from Social Work assists patients and families with the emotional, social, and practical adjustments required for finding permanent residential aged care.
“This ongoing access to clinical care and allied health support helps patients and their families to settle into the routine and environment of aged care.”
Jenny said patients in interim care often had an increased likelihood of facilities agreeing to a permanent placement, thanks to this innovative partnership model delivering a smooth, safe transition between hospital and aged care. The service is achieving great flow, with 2-3 discharges per week.
“Interim care offers the right environment for the physical, cognitive and psychosocial needs of this patient cohort, rather than being stuck in an acute hospital bed,” Jenny said.
“This partnership ensures we can care for more patients by maximising available space across the Queensland’s hospital and aged care services network.”
Anglicare Chief Operating Officer Aged and Community Services Kane Singh said interim care for aged care patients offered more than clinical support, combining tailored nursing and personal care with meaningful social connection.
“We’re giving older people a safe, welcoming environment where they’re able to take part in meaningful activities and have that important social connection with other residents while still receiving tailored nursing and care support from us as they transition into permanent residential aged care,” Mr Singh said.
“We are proud to offer this vital accommodation, which will not only support individuals and families in their transition but also play an important role in helping free up acute hospital beds for those who need them most.”