Aim
To provide a culturally capable alternative to hospital cardiac and pulmonary rehabilitation, particularly for those not currently accessing treatment.
Outcomes
Investing in the IUIH to deliver these services to First Nations people in South-East Queensland has:
- supported the delivery of culturally appropriate service models in the community closer to home
- provided culturally appropriate alternative care pathways for: community-based Pulmonary Rehabilitation programs for people who have had surgery or an acute health episode
- enhanced access and adherence to recommended treatment, and support hospital discharge
- reduced likelihood of emergency department presentations, Did Not Attends for outpatient and surgical care, and of hospital readmission
- enabled the IUIH to free up the own source revenue utilised to deliver these services for investment into services and programs not supported by Commonwealth or State government grants
The program effectively and adequately achieved value for money by allowing clients to access Pulmonary Rehabilitation close to home which increases the likelihood of reducing hospitalisations, increasing client access to the IUIH System of Care and increasing clients' abilities to self-manage their pulmonary conditions. Anecdotally, the program has improved attendance and access in comparison to mainstream programs not specifically designed for First Nations peoples.
Background
It is well documented that mainstream services are not always well attended by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people due to a range of issues including transport and culturally safe practice. Establishing these services within the community-controlled sector is one way to increase access and culturally responsive care.
The specialised rehabilitation programs are supported by the IUIH System of Care that supports clients to access a wide array of holistic health services and programs designed to meet community needs and strengthen pathways for clients to self-manage their health needs in a self-led manner.
This Network is comprised of the five Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community Controlled Health Organisations (ATSICCHO's) who operate as a regional collective with IUIH providing leading strategic direction and coordination.
