(SASKATOON) June 27, 2001 -- A District program
is providing cost-effective options for people to be better cared
for in the community rather than in hospital, found an SDH research
study.
The District's 'Quick Response Program' (QRP) in its emergency
departments facilitates an effective community-based alternative
to unnecessary and costly hospital stays.
This research initiative is one of the most comprehensive taken
on the topic of QRP to date within an integrated regional health
setting such as Saskatoon District Health.
Often people who come to the emergency department do not need to
be admitted to hospital and they could receive more appropriate
treatment or health services in the community. The Quick Response
Program employs a team of health professionals who work with individuals
to find them the services they need in the community.
District researchers reviewed more than 3,000 ER visits to the
District. "The Quick Response Program is an appropriate cost-effective
alternative for people who don't need acute hospital care,"
says Joanne Franko, Manager, Research Services Unit.
The dollars for the program measure up. Franko explains: "Thirty
days of community-based health services initiated by QRP for one
person costs $358. The cost of that same person staying in hospital
for just one day for the same kind of non-acute health services
is $327."
"By treating non-acute people through the Quick Response Program
in the community, we free up hospital beds for the people who really
need them."
The study also found that people who are admitted are acutely ill
and need to be in hospital.
Part of the success of the program is due to the District's highly
integrated health system, says Franko. "Our staff not only
work in hospitals and long-term care facilities - District staff
provide health services throughout our community. This reduces barriers
to communication and increases the success of programs that require
an integration of services."
This research project was one of 14 studies funded by Health Canada
for a national evaluation of the cost-effectiveness of Home Care.
Franko will present her findings at a conference in Vancouver during
the next week.
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For more information contact:
Janet Allen
Communication Counsellor
Saskatoon District Health
(306) 655-5112
Saskatoon Health Region
"Healthiest people, healthiest communities, exceptional service."
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