Abstract
Allied health services in rural and remote hospitals often work in siloed and solo discipline-specific positions. They are often part of general multi-disciplinary teams without a clearly articulated service model that integrates care for individuals and addresses broader community health needs. Integrated care service models for clients with complex disabilities or chronic health needs have demonstrated improved outcomes, but feasible service models are rarely described in the context of rural, remote and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. Integration can support primary health care in remote communities where resources are thin, and the breadth of multidisciplinary service providers is not available. A remote health service, in collaboration with a University Department of Rural Health and community partners, developed a community rehabilitation and lifestyle service for adults who experience chronic disease, disability or were at risk of functional decline due to frailty. Using an integrated approach, this model of care improves access to specialist and primary healthcare services, delivers targeted group-based rehabilitation and preventative activities, and addresses community and workforce capacity to meet the needs of the remote community. This paper describes a remote primary health care, Integrated Allied Health Service Model, developed with a focus on the co-ordination and integration of care and resources between the health service, education and community.
Funder
North Queensland Primary Health Network
James Cook University
Torres and Cape Hospital and Health Service
Reference31 articles.
1. Rationing is a reality in rural physiotherapy: a qualitative exploration of service level decision-making.;BMC Health Services Research,2015
2. Australian Bureau of Statistics (2015) Disability, ageing and carers, Australia: summary of findings. Australian Government, Canberra.
3. Australian Bureau of Statistics (2018) Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander life expectancy lowest in remote and very remote areas. Australian Bureau of Statistics. Available at [Viewed 7 November 2023]
4. Australian Bureau of Statistics (2021) Statistics. Available at [Retrieved 21 June 2023]
5. Australian Government (2013) National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Plan 2013–2023. Commonwealth of Australia, Canberra.