A Redesign Journey to Improve Patient Access to Acute Mental Health Services
Greater Southern Area Health Service
Abstract
Patient access to Mental Health Inpatient facilities within Greater Southern Area Health Services (GSAHS) was at times significantly longer than acceptable. A collaborative redesign project between Mental Health and Critical Care that commenced in November 2006 has resulted in improvements in patient access which has been sustained above targets for 5 out of the last 6 months.
The project involves staff on the frontline objectively monitoring their patient activity and identifying and implementing strategies to improve patient access. The focus of the project has been on the patient journey, utilising objective data and encouraging problem solving skills. The initiative is ongoing and is an area of continual learning for all involved.
This project was entered in the 2007 NSW Health Awards, Better Experiences for People using Health Services category.
The full entry document can be downloaded in the formats listed below:
A redesign journey to improve patient access to acute Mental Health Services (Word - 69 KB)
A redesign journey to improve patient access to acute Mental Health Services (pdf - 40 KB)
Download the Presentation ( pdf - 297 KB) from the 2007 NSW Health Expo
Contact
Communications and Publications Coordinator, Development Unit
Greater Southern Area Health Service
Phone: 02 6933 9184
