A new intervention project aimed at keeping people with chronic health conditions out of hospital has been launched in Whittlesea.
The CarePoint project, which will be run by Medibank on behalf of the Eastern Melbourne Primary Health Network (EMPHN), will identify Northern Health patients with complex chronic conditions such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease and respiratory conditions, who are at high risk of readmission to hospital and support them at home and in the community.
EMPHN chief executive Robin Whyte said 5.8 per cent of Whittlesea residents have type two diabetes, compared to the Victorian average of 4.7 per cent. Whittlesea also has an above average percentage of residents with cardiovascular disease.
“The CarePoint initiative will deliver personalised support to these patients in a home community setting,” Ms Whyte said.
“The initiative aims to improve the health and quality of life of around 90 patients with complex chronic diseases while reducing pressure on the public hospital system.”
Northern Health general manager Jenni Smith said the 12-month project would help the community.
“By working together, Northern Health will be able to provide patients timely, safe and appropriate care, in the comfort of their home,” she said.
Fifteen doctors’ clinics across Whittlesea will also take part in a CareFirst program aimed at helping GPs to better manage the condition of 700 patients with chronic diseases.
Patients will be chosen to participate in the program and will be provided with a care plan and health coaching to help them improve their quality of life and stay out of hospital.
