We've come a long way . . . together Looking back - reflections from ...

Rehab Day Hospital(cont’d from page 3)Comprehensive Stroke Unit),other hospitals, and professionalsin the community.Initially, patients participate inan interdisciplinary assessmentduring which time the patient,family and all Day Hospital teammembers jointly determine thepatient’s impairments. In discussionwith the patient and family,rehabilitation goals are establishedand it is decided whichdisciplines will be required tohelp meet therapeutic goals.The Day Hospital team consistsof an occupational therapist,speech-language pathologist,physiotherapist, social worker,recreation therapist, occupationaltherapy assistant, physiotherapyassistant and two nurses.Following the team assessment,patients attend the program twiceweekly and receive varioustherapies throughout the day.Length of stay is determined onthe basis of progress, but it is3-6 months on average. TheRehabilitation Day Hospital hashelped many patients achievefunctional gains and helpedthem to return to enjoyable,independent living after neurologicalevents.For referrals or additionalinformation, please contact theRehab Day Hospital, TrilliumHealth Centre at 905-848-7280.Story submitted by DarienHeathcote, speech-languagepathologist, on behalf of theRehab Day Hospital Team.Strategic Directions for 2004 – 2006Here is the framework for the future direction of the Network,developed on February 27, 2004. More detailed information isavailable from Kathryn LeBlanc, Regional Coordinator, at905-848-7580 x 5476.VISION 2006By the end of 2006, we want to see that clients in our catchmentarea receive the right treatment or therapy at the right place andat the right time – based on best practices using the appropriateresources. We also want to see that the delivery of services tostroke victims and their families is equitable across the Provinceand we will take a leadership role in achieving that end.Strategic FocusIn order to achieve our Vision, we are committed to the followingStrategic Priorities• Enhance PreventionTo ensure that acute risk patients are seen within 2-3 days andpatients with more general risk are seen within 1-2 weeks. Themodel to provide this level of service would be a ‘hub-and-spoke’with the regional stroke centre at the hub.• AdvocacyTo ensure that services for individual stroke survivors and theirfamilies are available across the continuum of care.• Improved TransitionsTo ensure that there is a smooth transition through the carecontinuum from pre-hospital, acute care and return to thecommunity. These transitions must flow fairly and equitably inboth directions across the region.• TransportationTo work with regional stakeholders to address impediments transportationposes to ensuring patient access across the continuum.• Education & CommunicationTo promote patient/family education that offers appropriateinformation to assist in stroke recovery;To ensure ongoing evidence-based, best practice education forhealth care professionals• Contingency PlanningA contingency plan for the Network will be completed andapproved by the Steering Committee by August 2004.