The Home Team brings care to the patient’s home

A newly launched Home Team service in Invercargill means more patients will be able to be cared for at home rather than in hospital, and those already in hospital who are medically well enough to leave will also be able to go home sooner and continue their recovery there with ongoing support.

Comprised of nurses, physiotherapists, occupational therapists, social workers and rehabilitation assistants – the Home Team provides appropriate and coordinated support. This enables patients to leave hospital sooner – or not be admitted at all – and to recuperate and recover at home.

Southern DHB Executive Director Strategy, Primary and Community Lisa Gestro says the DHB is delighted to launch the new Home Team service in Invercargill following the launch of the service in Dunedin in December.

“It’s a great example of the Primary and Community Care Strategy in action and is a truly patient focused initiative. It values our patient’s time, and supports people to stay at home, if that is the right place for them to be by bringing health care services to where patients live and better integrating services and providers across the health system. These include specialist care, general practice, home care, district nursing, rehabilitation services, pharmacy, needs assessment, ED and inpatient wards.”

Patients under the care of the Home Team will receive all the care and support they need from the team for up to two weeks, and those requiring support and services longer term will be referred to other community services and providers.

“Patients recover quicker when they are in the familiar surroundings of their own home and have a much greater chance of regaining their independence,” says Southern DHB Nursing Director, Strategy, Primary and Community Sally O’Connor.

 

"Home is more comfortable and familiar. At home, patients are likely to get up and be more active than in hospital meaning less loss of mobility, fitness and muscle strength. The calmer environment of home also helps recovery."

 

In Invercargill the service is available five days a week from 0800 – 1800hrs. All referrals will have access to a dedicated 0800 number.