The International Hospital Federation has recognised Newcastle's Calvary Mater Hospital for its Very Intensive Patients program.
Amongst 131 entries, from 90 organisations in 24 countries, the Calvary Mater was selected as a finalist for their program which identifies patients at risk of re-admission to hospital, both reducing their risk and improving their quality of life.
The program which was implemented in July 2015, has demonstrated promising results with re-admissions falling by 29% in hospitals that adopted the program including Maitland and Kurri Kurri.
Acting Assistant Director of Clinical Services for Nursing, Roslyn Barker, accepted the award on behalf of the hospital and believes the success of the program falls on understanding the patient's condition.
“By listening to patients and understanding the social determinants of health factors which impact on the patients’ health, we can tailor personalised support from our community partners to best meet patient needs and reduce readmission rates", she said.
"We need to make sure these days are special, and the patient is doing what they want, which may not be sitting in a hospital bed."
