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of Care Report2009-2010

www.timboonhealthcare.com.au

2 / Timboon & District Healthcare Service Quality of Care Report 2009-10 / 3

Our VisionTo be a leader in rural health care providing a responsive and integrated service catering for the needs of all within our community.

Our MissionTo provide a comprehensive, responsive and integrated range of quality health care services working collaboratively within the regional health system to promote and provide for the health, aged care and well being needs of our local community through centre based and community outreach services.

Our Values• Deliveringservicesina

friendly and enthusiastic manner

• Beingresponsivetopatientand client needs

• Ensuringthatservicesare of a high quality through continuous quality improvement and striving for best practice

• Encouragingprofessionaldevelopment of staff

• Beingaccountabletothecommunity

3 Message from the President andChief ExecutiveOfficer

4 Serving our Community

7 Patient Satisfaction – YourExperience

8 Clinical Governance

9 Quality and Safety

14 Caring for Aged Care Residents

17 Health Promotion

20 Keeping You Informed

21OurStaff

22 Volunteers Celebrated

23OurServices-WhatWeDeliver

Recruitment of general practitioners

A 50% increase in inpatients treated

2613 emergency attendances – a record number

Patient Satisfaction Monitor – 100% of patients satisfied with care received

Purchase of cardiac monitoring system – a new technological advance

Department of Health approval for $4.4 million Community Services building re-development

Integrated chronic disease management programs embedded

Men’s Shed program initiated

Quarterly bulletin introduced

Dental services re-introduced

Australasian Reporting Awards – Bronzeaward

Highlights fOrthEYEar

Contents

Accredited with The Australian Council on Healthcare Standards

Cover Images:

Midwifery client - Alisha Wallace

Respite client Mrs. Beryl Naylor

Health Promotion Officers Melanie Green and Carly Dennis

Registered Nurses Pam Robb and Julie Giblett

New cardiac monitoring system

Quality of Care Report 2009-10 / 3

This Report is written for you – our community, the consumer, carer, patient and resident of Timboon and District Healthcare Service. The Quality of Care Report is designed to provide you with an insight into the systems and processes in place to deliver a safe and quality service. We also outline some of our key achievements and new services introduced this year.

Timboon and District Healthcare Service is very proud of the care, services and professional standards we provide for all patients, residents and clients. The dedication and professionalism of our staff is to be commended.

It is our strong belief that the community should have access locally to high quality hospital, aged and community services and throughout theyeartheBoardof Managementandstaff have worked hard to meet this goal.

This year we have recruited medical staff,extendedourroleinchronicdisease management, youth and family services, dental care, health promotion and community activities to meet a growing demand in these areas. abuildingprogramtoextendourcommunity facilities is well underway and construction will commence in thenewyear.thisisanexcitingdevelopment which will well serve the community for many years.

This year’s Quality of Care Report has been produced in a similar format to last year following the very positive responses received. This format enabled the Report to be distributed to all households and this will again be the method of distribution as well as the Report being available on our website.Weinvitemembersof thecommunity to visit our website www.timboonhealthcare.com.au where details of services and current activities are available. Also our Annual Report, which details the goals and achievements of the Service during 2009/10, is available on the website or a copy may be obtained at reception.

appreciationisextendedtostaff andconsumers who have contributed to the production of this report. Feedback received from last year’s Report has guided the presentation of this Report.

Wetrustyoufindthisreportinformative and we look forward to hearing your opinion on this year’s Quality of Care Report and the services we provide. You are invited to complete and return the feedback form at the back of this report. Your views are important in helping us plan future services and continuing to improve and respond to community needs.

John Renyard Elaine Collins President Chief Executive Officer

Highlights fOrthEYEar

Message fromthePresidentandChief ExecutiveOfficer

“It is our strong belief that the community should have access locally to high quality hospital, aged and community services”


Acute CareAcute care involves our medical team of specialist and general practitioners, nursing and allied health staff who provide services including general medicine, emergency, general surgery and diagnostic procedures, gynaecology, obstetrics, diabetes management, nutrition, continence management, physiotherapy and speech pathology.

Sub-Acute CareSub-acute care is the provision of non-emergency, longer term care, together with rehabilitation, geriatric assessment and palliative care.

Residential and Aged CareWithinourtotalnumberof 14beds,three beds are allocated for community members for residential high care and respite care as required. Aged care is furthersupportedthroughanextensiverange of community aged care services.

Serving our community

OverviewTimboon and District Healthcare Service provides a range of services for the community living within the southern section of the Corangamite Shire and adjoining sections of Moyne Shire. Key towns within the service area are Timboon and Cobden and the coastal towns of Port Campbell, Princetown and Peterborough. The hospital in the summer months, in particular, provides an important role in meeting emergency and medical needs of tourists and holiday makers.

Anaesthetist Dr. Geoff Kilminster and Physician Dr. Chris Charnley

Other including Melbourne

Colac Otway Shire

Warrnambool

Terang & Corangamite North

Moyne Shire

Peterborough

Princetown

Port Campbell

Cobden

Simpson & Cooriemungle

Scotts Creek

Timboon

Source of Patients by Municipality


Community Care Communitycarecoversanextensiverange of programs – a number of programs are provided at our facilities and many services are delivered on an outreach basis in clients’ homes.Home based services include district nursing and palliative care, maternity outreach visits, and a range of services within the home and community care program (HACC) for aged and young disabled, such as domestic assistance, meals on wheels and community transport.

Health Education and PromotionA variety of programs to encourage health and well being are provided includingexercisetherapy,taichi,strength training and health education programs for the community and the local schools.

Growth in Emergency Department PresentationsanincreaseinEmergencydepartmentpresentations is challenging the staff to meettheneedsandexpectationsof thecommunity.

In 2009/10 emergency presentations totalled 2613 – a record number. Overthepasttwoyearsemergencypresentations have increased rapidly, with a 44% increase in this two year period.Ourbusiestmonthscontinueto be November, December and January,reflectinganinfluxof touristsand holiday makers to the area.

Nursing staff are well trained to triage, provide stabilisation and to arrange medical care.

Activities undertaken to ensure quality care include:

• reviewingandauditingthetypesof presentations and

• Providingongoingeducationof staff to meet the challenges of the range of emergency presentations.

Research with Deakin UniversityIn the coming year Timboon and District Healthcare Service will participate with Deakin University and other hospitals in the south west in a research project centred upon emergency presentations. The purpose of this project is to study the activity and performance of emergency departments through the collection of data over a 12 month period, providing information for audit and review processes.

New Technology to Improve Cardiac and Vital Signs MonitoringChest pain and other signs of a possible heart attack are all too often emergency presentations.

Withthesupportof generousdonationsa new cardiac and vital signs monitoring system was installed this year both in the emergency department and the ward. The system enables monitoring both at the bedside and from the central nurses station.

Advantages and benefits of the new systemisthatwiththesmallsizeof themonitoring units together with wireless technology patients can be monitored continuously, which enables a better picture of a patient’s overall health. This ability to move around freely also brings more comfort for patients. For staff, an added advantage is that monitored results are directly linked to the patient’s electronic medical record.

Operating TheatreVisiting specialists, Dr. Chris Charnley andMr.BrendanMooney,ablysupportedbytheWarrnamboolanaesthetists and local general

practitioneranaesthetistDr.WarwickRouse performed a total of 185 theatre cases in 2009/10.

Theatre procedures to ensure safetyStaff has implemented National and Victorian Quality Council best practice standards.anexampleof thesepracticesare:

Instrument tracking systemA new instrument tracking system called “Meditrack” has been implemented this year following comprehensive training by all theatre staff. The system enables the tracing of instruments and other items through the sterilising process and then through the organisation, allowing for identification of instruments/packs used in an operation or procedure on any individual.

Correct patient/site/procedureThe policy correct patient/site/procedure is intended to describe the steps that must be taken to ensure that any intended surgical or medical procedure is performed on the correct patient, correct site with the correct procedure.

This comprehensive policy commences from admission to discharge and applies to all patients undergoing a medical or surgical procedure.

Timboon and District Healthcare Service recognises the importance of patient safety and the use of the mandated policy by all doctors and nurses to reduce the risk of a procedure being carried out on the wrong patient or wrong body part.

Staff complianceA comprehensive internal education survey involving all staff has been carried out to test knowledge and compliance. Staff recorded accurate and correct results indicating a good understanding and knowledge base of this policy. Records are audited to ensure compliance with best practice standards.

0

500

1000

1500

2000

25002451

2010 2009 2008 2007 2006

18161633 1652

2613

Emergency Procedures

Right:Timboon Day Centre attendees


Early Years – a continuum of care for young families

Maternity ServicesUnder the direction of obstetrician Dr.ChrisBeaton,midwiveshavebeenoffering an antenatal and birthing service for the past two years. The maternity services are based upon a low risk midwifery model of care. This service provides relevant investigations during pregnancy, labour support and care and postnatal care for mother and baby.Breastfeedingispromoted.

This year 19 local women chose Timboon and District Healthcare Service and all have been really happy with the service.

Maternity services include:

• Childbirthclasses

• Postnataldomiciliarycare

• Breastfeedingadvice

• Newparentsgroupclasses

• fitnessclasses.

These classes and visits are offered to all local families regardless of where the parents choose to have their baby and have been well attended over many years. Midwives this year provided 45 home visits.

Maternal and Child Health NurseWorkingincloseassociationwithourmidwives is the Corangamite Shire maternal and child health nurse, who is located on site at Timboon and District Healthcare Service. This service is free for all families with children under theageof sixanditsaimistosupportfamilies, in order to provide children with a good start to life.

Ten key age and stage visits are offered to provide support, information and access to professional advice on such issues as child behaviour, nutrition, breastfeeding and family planning. These contacts with families offer the chance to identify any problems with the child’s health development and make social connections with other parents of young children.

Child Screenings

theParentalEvaluationof DevelopmentStatus has been implemented in conjunctionwiththeuseof Brigancesecondary screenings to support early intervention in the early years. Through the implementation of these evidence based screenings, professionals are better equipped to provide seamless service delivery with other health professionals and present opportunities for each child to reach their potential.

Family SupportThis year we commenced a new service – Family Support – and our worker Steffi Persson, a qualified social worker, has quickly developed the service aimed at prevention and early intervention. Part of the service we offer is parenting support for parents who may be struggling, whether that be with babies, toddlers or adolescents. Whateverafamily’sneedsourserviceis to cater for each family’s individual needs, offering support and advice and referral to a more specialised service if required. All our services work in close co-operation with each other and Steffi has formed a team approach with the maternal and child health nurse, home and community care assessment officer and youth worker in meeting the needs of families.

Monitoring Safety inObstetricsBirthingoutcomesaremonitoredthrough critical analysis of individual cases.

Birthingdataisroutinelyreportedto the Department of Health and reports received from the Department to enable comparison of such indicators as

• Rate of inductions of labour

• Tears during childbirth

• Health of the baby.

“The midwives are fantastic and support you through it all. I like the fact it’s a small hospital and it’s all very personal. The staff are very caring.” LocalresidentalishaWallace


External SurveyThe State-wide Victorian Patient Satisfaction Survey asks people who have been discharged home from hospital a series of questions related to their admission, participation, complaints management, physical environment, general information and overall care. This survey is undertaken onasixmonthlybasis.

ResultsThe graph below shows the comparison between Timboon and District Healthcare Service, peer multi purpose services and the state average for overall care for the period 2006-2009 coveringthesixsurveys.theoverallcareindexisacombinationof allindexesmeasured.

How much do you think you were actually helped by your stay in hospital? Percentage

A great deal 63

Quite a bit 34

Somewhat 2

A little 2

Not at all 0

100

“A1 hospital and nursing staff”

“Being made welcome and assistance from the medical staff”

“Prompt, courteous, caring staff”

Cultural Diversity PlanOurCulturalDiversityPlanhasfivekeygoals:

• To understand clients and their needs

• To provide a staff manual of cultural and linguistic diverse resources

• To develop a culturally diverse workforce

• To use language resources to best effect

• To encourage consumers from a cultural and linguistic diverse background to be involved in service planning and the activities of the organisation.

Information is collected on patients’ country of birth, preferred language and interpreter requirements. This data is analysed on an annual basis to ensure we are meeting the cultural needs of patients and clients and providing appropriate information. Staff is trained in accessing the interpreter service.

Victorian Patient Satisfaction Monitor – Wave 17: June 2009 to December 2009

Page 11 of 73 Timboon & District Healthcare Service

Table 3.1 above highlights the changes of statistical significance (those numbers coloured and shaded) between the current wave and the previous wave. Only those with changes that have attained statistical significance should be considered to reflect a real change in the indices’ values. It should be noted that statistical variations occur in the values of indices as a result of sampling and measurement variations and that changes from one period to the next may not reflect real or statistical significant changes unless they are specifically tested for. In this report, statistical significance testing has been performed between Wave 16 and Wave 17 data only; details of the significance testing are contained in the relevant tables. No statistical significance testing is contained within the time series charts. The following charts show the historical trends for each index of patient satisfaction. Please note that figures in the following charts have been rounded for formatting purposes.

Overall Care Index for Period 2006 to 2009 Access and Admission Index for Period 2006 to 2009

Wave 12 Wave 13 Wave 14 Wave 15 Wave 16 Wave 17

Timboon & District Healthcare Service 85 89 88 90 90 87

Category M Mean 84 85 82 84 85 84

State-wide Mean 78 78 78 79 78 78

60

70

80

90

100

Wave 12 Wave 13 Wave 14 Wave 15 Wave 16 Wave 17

Timboon & District Healthcare Service 85 86 87 88 87 84

Category M Mean 84 81 83 83 85 83

State-wide Mean 77 77 77 77 77 77

60

70

80

90

100

Respite client Mrs. Beryl Naylor Chiropractor Dr. Ross McIlveen


Key components of clinical governance involve:

Consumer Participation at every levelStudies show that patient involvement in their care often improves health outcomes and patient satisfaction. Wevaluepatientandclientfeedbackon all aspects of the care we provide in order that we can make changes and continually improve.

Ways in which we seek to engage you in your care include:

• Providinginformationaboutyourmedical condition, medications and services available and inviting you to ask questions

• Workingwithyoutodevelopacareplan or establish goals to manage your medical condition or establish health and wellbeing goals through our health promotion programs

• Externalandinternalsatisfactionsurveys to gain vital input into our service provision and detect areas for improvement

• Encouragingpatientsandclientstoexpressconcernsorcomplaints.

Consumer Participation Indicators Percentage Satisfied

Opportunitytoask questions about treatment 97%

Waystaff involvedyou in decisions 100%

Willingnessof staff tolisten 98%

Source: Victorian Patient Satisfaction Monitor–Wave17

Clinical EffectivenessClinical effectiveness involves the measurement of clinical outcomes, ensuring the right care is provided attherighttime.Wehaveanumberof ways to monitor and evaluate oureffectivenessincludingexternalevaluation through accreditation processes, monitoring clinical indicators and undertaking clinical audits and reviews. Many of these are presented throughout this report.

Effective WorkforceWehavesystemsinplacetoensurethatstaff employed at our health service have appropriate skills, qualifications andexperiencetoprovidesafehighquality care.Someof theseinclude:

• Credentialling,scopeof practiceand certification of staff

• Mandatorycompetenciesforstaff working in clinical areas

• regularparticipationbystaff inclinical practice and education programs.

Clinical Governance

Registered Nurse Michelle Selten


Quality and Safety

Clinical Risk ManagementRisk management is an important aspect of clinical governance and involves identifying potential risks and undertaking activities to minimise the risk. Clinical risk management refers specifically to patient care and involves identifying, analysing and managing risks to optimise patient safety.

Infection Control and CleaningInfection control in the hospital setting is a broad term which encompasses procedures necessary to prevent the spread of germs, that is, bacteria and viruses.

Hospital acquired infections cause patients pain and suffering and use up valuable health care resources.

Mandatory ReportingWehaveacomprehensiveinfectioncontrol program which is designed to protect both patients and staff from cross-infection. However, should hospital acquired infections occur we are required to monitor and report such infections to the Victorian Nosocomial Infections Surveillance System (VICNISS). Infection rates

are able to be compared with hospitals of similarsizeacrossthestate.hospitalacquired infections can include surgical site infections, blood stream infections, caused by insertion of intravenous devices, and the incidence of multi-resistant organisms such as “golden staph”.

Hand HygieneHands are one of the main culprits in spreading disease and the importance of hand washing in preventing the spread of infection between patients in the hospital is regularly monitored by the regional infection control nurses and the percentage compliance reported to the Victorian Hand Hygiene Coordinating Centre.

In the past two years the Victorian Quality Council has highlighted the importance of hand washing for all health professionals. Staff at Timboon and District Healthcare Service is showing a continual improvement as demonstrated through regularexternalauditsconducted by the regional infection control nurses.

In this section we outline some of the systems and processes in place to create and maintain the high standards we continuously strive for.

Hotel Services Supervisor Monica Easterbrook


Actions taken to improve compliance:

• Raising staff awareness through regular education

• Highlighting audit results

• Use of hand gel and training in the correct method of applying gel

• Placement of hand gel in every patient room.

A Clean HospitalThe importance of a clean hospital is taken seriously by the Hotel Services staff, particularly in terms of minimising the risk of cross-infection and maintaining a comfortable environment for patients.

New cleaning standards were introduced in 2010 by the Department of Health and are monitored on a regular basis.

Falls Prevention – it’s everyone’s responsibilityFalls are one of the most widespread and potentially serious injury problems fortheelderly.Werecognisethisandwe have a falls prevention program in place both for inpatients and clients in theirhome.Weareconcernedthatnoharm arises whilst patients, residents and clients are receiving care.

Actions taken to reduce falls: • Staff education to heighten

awareness of the risk of patient falls and the falls prevention strategies available

• A risk assessment on each patient to identify those patients at risk of falling

• Review of the environment such as ensuring adequate lighting and an uncluttered room

• Encouragementtopatientstorequest staff assistance

• Encouragementof ahealthydiet

• Correct assessment and use of walking aids

• Use of equipment such as low beds that can be lowered to floor level and bedside alarms

• Reporting and investigating all falls together with a review of strategies in place to see if the fall could be prevented from happening again

• Referral of patients to physiotherapy and ‘No Falls’ programs.

“The cleaning standards aim to improve quality health service provision by ensuring that all risks involving cleaning are identified and managed in an appropriate manner.”

2010 External Cleaning Audit Results

MarchOverallscore97%June Overallscore96.4%

Two staff passed the Department of Health accredited cleaning audit course.

Patient Satisfaction with cleanliness of rooms and facilities

2009/10 2008/09

Cleanliness of patient rooms 98% 100%

Cleanliness of toilets/ showers 98% 100%

Source:PatientSatisfactionMonitorWave17

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40

60

80

100

Apr 10Nov 09Jul 09Mar 09Nov 08Jul 080

20

40

60

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100

OHSLRMRHRVHR

Hand Hygene Compliance 2008 -2010

External Cleaning AuditMarch & June 2010

AQL - Acceptable Quality Level

VHR - Very High Risk

HR - High Risk

MR - Medium Risk

LR - Low Risk

OHS-OverallScore

Community Care Worker Sharon Bissett


Patients, families and visitors can help prevent or reduce the risk of falls by:• Bringingincorrectlyfittingand

firm slippers or shoes

• Ensuringthatclothingsuchaspyjamas and dressing gowns fit correctly and are not too long

• Bringinginusualwalkingaidsanddistance glasses and ensuring that they are within easy reach

• Encouragingthepatienttoaskforassistance if needed when getting out of bed.

Preventing Falls in the CommunityEmphasisisplaceduponmembersof the community over the age of 70, who it is recognised are more at risk of falls.

Actions Taken:• Falls risk assessments for all

district nurse clients and home and community care clients

• Individual ‘no falls’ assessments provided for members of senior citizensanddaycentreclients

• Referral to occupational therapist for the use of aids in the home to prevent falls/slips

• Referral to a podiatrist to assist optimal foot health

• Referral and promotion of our exerciseprogramsincludinganeight week body balance course.

Pressure Ulcer PreventionA pressure ulcer known as “pressure sore” or “bed sore” is an area of skin that has been damaged due to pressure and rubbing. This can be caused by lying or sitting in one position too long, and is linked with other factors such as smoking, the elderly with more fragile skin,poornutrition,extremesof bodyweight and chronic illness.

Pressure ulcers are classified into stages:Stage1:Observablepressureareaasa

reddened area on skin with no break in the skin integrity

Stage2:Smallbreakorblisteredareaof skin

Stage3:fullthicknessskinlossinvolving structures below skin surface

Stage4:Damagetostructuresbelowtheskinthatextenddowntothe bone or tendon.

Several of our residents had Stage 1 ulcers. Particularly for the elderly or the bed-ridden pressure ulcers can be a significant risk.

Activities undertaken to prevent pressure ulcers:• Staff education on risks, prevention

and management including documentation

• Policies based on best practice guidelines

• All patients and clients assessed for risk factors associated with the development of pressure areas

• Monitoring for any signs of pressure development.

Management through:• Monitoring skin hygiene and using

appropriate skin care products

• Ensuringpatientshaveahealthydiet to assist in skin repair

• Use of pressure relieving mattresses and special air flow mattresses and other pressure relieving equipment such as chairs and heal protectors

• Appropriate handover between staff regarding pressure care and wound management.

• Provision of loan items of equipment to clients in the home such as recliner chairs, soft overlay mattresses and other aids.

“A pressure ulcer known as “pressure sore” or “bed sore” is an area of skin that has been damaged due to pressure and rubbing”

Monitoring Falls

Whenoneof ourpatientsorresidents falls staff must fill in an incident report and the circumstance of thefallisexaminedtoseeif wecan prevent it from happening again.

Number of Falls

2009/10 – 10 falls Rate of 0.29 % per total bed days – acute and aged care

2008/09 - 6 falls Rate of 0.20 % per total bed days – acute and aged care

Most falls resulted in no injury or minor injury such as skin tears in several episodes.

Nurses Julie Harkin and Jessica Baker


Wound ManagementNew ideas and products are evolving regarding best practice in wound management.Bothinpatientandcommunity nurses attend regular updates and product demonstrations to keep abreast of new ideas.

Regular education sessions are provided by the regional wound care nurse and referralsmadeasrequired.Woundcare charts are used to document management and progress of wound healing.

Using Medications SafelyMedication administration is an important aspect of care in the hospital and in our role in community care. The potential for adverse effects from medication errors may include missed or incorrect dosage of a drug.

Staff is encouraged to report medication incidents or ‘near miss’ episodes as part of continuous quality improvement and throughout this year this has been highlighted to staff.

Actions in place to reduce the number of medicationerrors:

• Useof theNationalInpatientMedication Chart – a common chart used by all hospitals

• reportingof medicationerrorstothe Clinical Services Committee for review and preventative action

• Medicationmanagementpoliciesforsafe storage

• Documentationtochangesinthe Clinical Management Plan and changes discussed at nurse handover.

Numberof MedicationErrors

2009/10 - 7

2008/09 - 3

None of the medication errors impacted on patient care.

The increased number of medication errors this year is largely due to increased training for staff in reporting errors and additional clinical audits.

Maintaining Quality through AccreditationWeparticipateintheEQuIPprogramof The Australian Council on Healthcare Standards and have been fully accredited until April 2013, subject to meeting on-going commitments of the program.

Accreditation operates within a four year cycle involving in the first year of the cycle a comprehensive organisation widesurveybyexternalsurveyors,followed in the second year by a self assessment report, then a periodic reviewbyanexternalsurveyor,afurtherself assessment in the fourth year, leading again to the organisation wide survey.

This accreditation processes places an emphasis upon: • acustomerfocus

• Strongleadership

• acultureof improving

• Evidenceof outcomes

• Strivingforbestpractice.

District Nurse Corry Kerr


Any recommendations by Surveyors for improvement are followed up during the four year cycle.

Extensiveachievementwasawardedfortheexcellentfeedbackfromthe Patient Satisfaction Monitor over a five year period and for the consultative processes undertaken in the development of the organisation’s strategic plan.

Extensiveachievementwasalsoachieved in recognition of our health promotion programs and the evaluation processes undertaken in ensuring they are achieving their goals.

Limited Adverse Occurrence Screening (LAOS) – Monitoring Clinical Practice

What is LAOS?LimitedadverseOccurrenceScreeningis a system to identify critical incidents that may occur in hospital. Medical records are reviewed by general practitioners from across the state to find out if anything could have been done better. Twelve small rural hospitalsthroughouttheOtwayDivision of General Practice participate in this program. The medical records are managed in a secure way to ensure the privacy and confidentiality of all patients’ records.

Why have LAOS?The purpose of these reviews is to provide feedback and educational opportunities for general practitioners. Recommendations are made and distributed to all general practitioners acrosstheOtwayDivisionforconsideration and advice to ensure best practice awareness.

Planning for Emergencies

Bush Fire SafetyPlanning for various emergencies such as fire and evacuation is a standard part of our facility emergency response.

This year particular emphasis was placed upon reviewing and revising the organisation’s bush fire plan. Members of the Clinical Services Committee have undertaken detailed planning and consulted with local police, ambulance, state emergency services and the Shire to ensure our plan is consistent with the community plan.

Staff has developed detailed checklists and purchased additional equipment to ensure we are prepared to deal with a bush fire emergency. This will ensure a high level of organisation and effective use of the resources we have to protect all patients, clients, visitors and staff.

The plan takes account of the various levels of fire warnings and the level of community outreach services able to beprovided.Weareverymuchawareof those who are at highest risk in the community and the plan includes follow up of clients to check on their welfare.

Weencourageallresidentstoensurethat they have a fire plan – leaving early if deciding to travel to a safer more built up area, organising preventative strategies such as clearing debris early and planning with and for elderly and those without transport.

Dealing with a HeatwaveNewsletters and advice on how to stay cool, have plenty to drink, together with follow up phone calls are all part of the careof theelderlyondaysof extremeheat. Guidelines from the Department of Health and Ageing on dealing with a heatwave were issued to all home and community care clients during the summer months.

Otway Division Timboon Group of Hospitals Healthcare No. % No. %

Transfer to another health service 91 45 25 56

Unplanned readmission within 35 days of discharge 71 35 17 38

Patient lengths of stay greater than 35 days 9 4 2 4

Unexpectedpatientdeath 32 16 1 2

Total 203 100 45 100

Across the Otway Division 2009/10• 203recordsreviewedby13reviewing

general practitioners.

• 45recordsfromtimboonandDistrictHealthcare Service reviewed.

Of the45recordsreviewednonewereflagged as containing either an adverse event (critical incident) or an educational opportunity.

The dominant screening criteria were:

“ExtensiveAchievement was awarded for the excellentfeedbackfrom the Patient Satisfaction Monitor over a five year period”

“Staff has developed detailed checklists and purchased additional equipment to ensure we are prepared to deal with a bush fire emergency”


Residents and respite clients are encouraged to participate in various group activities such as gentle exercise programs, adult day activities and the visually impaired group.

New Diversional Therapy ProgramthisyearEnidO’Connorcommencedin the newly created role of diversional activities officer to enhance the care and variety of activities for residents andrespiteclients.Ouraimistoprovide client centred holistic care – to support, challenge and enhance physical, social, physiological, cultural and spiritual well being of residents and clients.

Additional entertainment equipment suchasWiiandNintendogameswere purchased with assistance from donations for this purpose.

Many respite clients request to return to Timboon and District Healthcare Service for further periods of respite as they appreciate the care provided by both the nursing and hotel services staff.

Providing these periods of respite for carers is an important component in maintaining frail elderly clients in their home.

Chronic Disease Independence ProgramThe Chronic Disease Independence Program has now been running successfullyforoverayear.Ouraim is to offer a home-based service to those who suffer from a chronic condition including people with chronic obstructivepulmonarydisease(COPD),chronic heart failure, diabetes, chronic andcomplexneedsandpsychosocialissues.

The Chronic Disease Coordinator ChristieBerrywillorganiseservicesrequired, liaise with medical staff and other health professionals as well as provide medical information and education relevant to the client’s individual needs. Wellbeingtoolsareoftenusedtoencourage clients to talk about their conditionandexplorehowtheycanbetter self manage their condition and often reduce the need to be hospitalised.

Wehavemanyclientsinvolvedinourchronic disease independence program and following is the journey of one of our clients over the past year.

Our goal is to deliver compassionate care to residents and respite clients. Throughout the year there were a total of 4 residents and 35 frail elderly provided with respite care for varying periods of time.

Caring for Aged Care Residents

Diversional Therapist Enid O’Connor


Chronic Disease Coordinator Christie Berry with Ray Lane

Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation The physiotherapy service provides services across acute inpatient, rehabilitation, aged care and our communityexercisetherapyprograms.thephysiotherapistandexercisetherapist participate in a number of multidisciplinary clinics to assist people with mobility and balance problems and provide advice and assistance to older members of the community who have experiencedrepeatedfalls.

April Falls DayFree screenings were offered to all local residents to see how their balance measured up during the week of April Falls Day and to encourage residents to enrolinaneightweek“BetterBalance”program designed to improve balance and prevent falls.

There were 58 attendances over the 8 sessions, which included activities that target strength and skills to improve people’s balance mechanism, as well as education on safety and surrounds and the effects of medication on balance. Olderpersonsareencouragedtotakepartinanumberof lowimpactexerciseclasses offered at Timboon and District Healthcare Service on a regular basis such as tai chi and the rehabilitation exerciseprogram.

Mental Health – Looking after your well beingCounselling services are offered in a number of ways:

Mental Health Social Worker Lee Town visits on a weekly basis providing general counselling services.

Youth Worker Natasha Neal provides counselling through her youth work activities and youth support.

Family Support WorkerSteffi Persson offers counselling services as part of her role in supporting families.

Health PromotionOurhealthpromotionofficersprovidea number of preventative programs with a focus on physical and mental well being and social connectedness as well as providing advice and access to information to assist with mental health issues.

Oral Health for Everyone

Dr. Donna Mercado and her team from SouthWesthealthcarehavebroughtdental services back to Timboon – private dental, teen dental and school dental.

School and Teen DentalWithMedicare’steenDentalvoucherprogram teenagers can access up to $157 worth of preventative dental care. The vouchers cover a general check-up as well as other procedures including x-rays,aclean,fluoridetreatmentandfissure sealing.

“It’s a whole package of preventative treatment and every child aged 12 to 17 is eligible for that treatment” advises Dr. Mercado.

InassociationwithSouthWestHealthcare Dental Department we have commenced a school dental clinic every second Tuesday. Pre-school aged

Ray Lane’s Health Journey...“InOctober2009Ihadbeeninthehospital for my diabetes (which flared up) and doctors did different tests and found out that I had heart problems also. Following this I went to Geelong Hospital for an angiogram and a lot of other tests. During this timeChristieBerrybecamemyCareCo-ordinator with the co-operation of Dr. Rouse.

Christie came out to visit me at home quite often and made sure that I had all the services I needed. SheorganisedfortheOccupationalTherapist to put in rails (shower and toilet) and for Fiona Hanel (assessmentOfficer)toorganisehomehelpforme.Betweenthedoctors and the hospital profession I feel much obliged to what they have done for me. I also started aBetterhealthSelf Managementcourse but could not finish as I had aheartattack.WhenIhadmyheartattack in May 2010 I was taken toWarrnambool,thentoGeelongby ambulance where I stayed for 6-8 weeks following a quad bypass and valve repair. I then returned to Timboon for 3 weeks of cardiac rehabilitation and respite. I went home from Timboon where I had the District Nurses visiting every day to my home. I then had to be brought back into hospital in July to adjust my insulin as my diabetes was still high.

Now my health is getting back on track. I am attending physiotherapy andexerciseclasseseveryweekand even participating in a “cooking for one” food course. I see Ingrid Rial (diabetes educator) and Dr. Andrea Hedgland regularly to keep my diabetes stable. I praise the help that I have received from all the medical and allied health workers and a special thank-you to Christie for the help and guidance she has givenme.Beforeallof thisIhadbeen in and out of hospital regularly for 6-12 months. The doctors told me that following my heart operation that I would have 15 years added onto my life and today I feel like a brand new man!”


children and those in prep to grade 6, whose parents are health care card holders, receive free dental care and for others a charge of $28 per child applies per course of treatment.

To date there have been 14 clinics with 75 school children seen. In the coming year it is proposed that public adult clinics will operate.

Private Dental ServicesIn addition to these special programs, a private dental service offers general restorative work, crown and bridge work, full and partial dentures, extractions,minorsurgery,implantrestorations and root canal treatment.

Pre-school Smiles for MilesThe ‘smiles for miles’ program is provided to all children and their parents attending kindergarten and child care services. The program

focuses upon dental health and nutrition in the early years with three keythemes:

• Drink well – tap water is the preferred drink, limit sugary and fizzydrinksandplainmilkispreferable to flavoured.

• Eatwell–enjoyavarietyof nutritious foods, limit sugary foods especially between meals

• Clean well – brush twice a day with a low fluoride (children’s) toothpaste, encourage flossing and develop good oral hygiene practices at an early age.

A 20 year old intellectually disabled woman has been referred to our service.She is 12 weeks pregnant, separated from her partner and living alone. The client does not drive.

Assessment reveals that she has very poor life skills and requires intense services to maintain her independence to live alone and prepare for motherhood.

A goal is set with the client for her to live independently with her child.

A community care worker was assigned and a combination of home care and personalcareprovidedsixhoursperweek. The role of the community care workerinvolved:

• teaching the client how to cook• teaching the client how to shop for

appropriatefoodforanexpectingmother

• teaching the client how to budget and

• providing assistance to maintain a clean home environment.

The case manager also provided a lot of emotional and personal support to the client during pregnancy, liaised with her treating doctor and arranged community transport to attend medical appointments.

Monthly meetings were held with health professionals – general practitioner, midwife, maternal and child health nurse, case manager, Department of Human Services and home care support workers to monitor the client’s progress and plan for the birth of her baby. Shopping assistance was provided for purchasing the necessary clothing and furniture for the baby.

A healthy baby was born and the client remainedinhospitalatotalof sixweeks to enable midwives to continue to monitor the client and baby and provide her with post natal skills.

Upon discharge the client was provided with further home care services to continue to instruct and advise on life skills, including monitoring and helping with the infant. Case management also included liaison with the Department of Human Services involving the child’s welfare. The client was encouraged to attend the new parents group sessions.

OutcomeFifteen months on the client is living independently with her toddler. Services have been reduced to two hours per week to provide assistance and emotional support. The client attends to all her daily living tasks for herself and her toddler – cleaning, shopping, cooking and accesses public transport.

A case study

Health professionals team up for a client’s journey from dependence to independenceThe Department of Health has introduced the Active Service Model throughout Victoria as a quality improvement initiative in the delivery of home and community care services.

The Active Service Model focuses upon the premise that all clients have the potential to make gains in their well being to live in the community as independently as possible given the appropriate support. This model focuses upon person centred care to ensure the best outcomes for clients.

Guidance and training in assessment and case management in this new approach to service delivery has been undertaken by staff.

Dental care at Timboon Kindergarten


Health Promotion

Men’s ShedTimboon’s Men’s Shed got underway in February 2010 following the appointmentof aProjectOfficerbyTimboon and District Healthcare Service to act as convenor, initiating a community information session, planning meetings and visits to other Men’s Shed programs in the area as well as further afield.

The first day as the Timboon Men’s Shed was in April, meeting at the local timboonBaptistChurchhall.fundingfor a shed is being sought.

Timboon Men’s Shed is open twice weekly to men of all ages and all abilities. The Men’s Shed encourages participation by people who are still active, keen to provide volunteer work and have a vast range of skills and experiencetosupportcommunityactivities. Such activities, recognised as one of the key benefits of the Men’s Shed movement, will undoubtedly contribute to their overall health and wellbeing. In our community we are privileged to have some very inspiring men who mentor and motivate others. The “Shedders” have found the program provides a great place to meet, have fun and do practical things – they have

avastrangeof skillsandexperienceto support community activities such as restoring tables and chairs for the kindergarten and outdoor benches for the Ambulance Station.

Promoting Health to Younger MenA men’s health night was held in conjunction with the Timboon Demons Football Club with 106 men in attendance. This highly successful night comprised a three course meal, special guest Geelong premiership player Joel Selwood, guest health

speakerStuWilderfromWesternDistrict Health Service, raffles, men’s health toolkits and socialisation.

The aim of working with the football club was to attract men in the 18-34 age group as this age group previously had been low in attendance at health promotion evenings.

OutcomeThe evening was well received and rated highly. The majority of men in attendance ranged from 18 to 44. Joel Selwood highlighted the importance of not ignoring any warning signs drawing

Timboon’s Men’s Shed got underway in February 2010 following the appointment of a Project Officer

Geelong Footballer Joel Selwood


fromfirsthandexperienceof seeingtheGeelong Football club doctor, a relatively fit man, suffer a heart attack in front of him. He advised “you should see your doctor regularly and never leave things until it’s too late”.Men’shealtheducatorStuWilderstressed the importance of men taking their health seriously now to prevent problems later in life, stressing that it is the things you do now that really have an impact on your health later in life. He stated “the damage is done by the time you are 50 when it comes to health issues such as cancer, diabetes and heart disease.”

Well Women’s ServicetheWellWomen’sServicewasestablished by Timboon and District Healthcare Service in February 2001. Clinics are now offered at Timboon, Cobden, Terang and Mortlake.

This free service offers women options to where they can obtain Pap tests, advice and education on breast health, contraception, menopausal issues or any other health related issues they wish to discuss, with appropriate referral as needed.

The aim of this service is to increase screening rates in our rural area through promotion and providing an alternative service. Up to 90% of the most common types of cervical cancer are preventable with early detection of abnormalities and treatment if needed.

This year 185 women attended clinics run by our nurse practitioner.

Community OutcomeThroughout the catchment area, the percentage of eligible women attending

clinics for cervical screening has risen from 54% in 2002/03 to 58% in 2007/08.Source:CytologyVictoria

Women’s Health – A Night to CelebrateWednesdayMay19th2010saw150women descend upon the Timboon Golf ClubfortheannualWomen’shealthNight,sponsoredbyBhPBilliton.

The evening comprised a three course meal, guest speaker Dr Sally Cockburn (Dr Feelgood), raffles, information bags andsocialization.

Dr Cockburn was chosen due to her vast health knowledge as well as her

phenomenal ability to engage her audience. She spoke on topics such asmentalhealth,self esteem,sexualhealth and the importance of a good relationship with your doctor.

This was by far one of the most successfulWomen’sNightswehaveheld.Womenfromallagegroupsfrommid 20’s to 60’s were well represented with many in the 30s-40s group.

The women thoroughly enjoyed Dr Feelgood’s presentation about the jugglingactexperiencedbymanywomen and rated it highly. The women in attendance commented that it was refreshing to hear that they are not alone in their thoughts and feelings about life and their health.

A Whole School Approach to Health and Wellbeing humandevelopmentandsexualityeducationisnotsomethingthatcanbecoveredbyaonehoursessioningrade5or6.Whatthestudentslearncanaffectthewaytheythink,feelandactinrelationtotheirsexualwellbeingandidentity.

Timboon and District Healthcare Service provides programs to local schools - Timboon P-12, Cobden Technical School, Simpson and Nullawarre Primary School - from grade 5 to year 10.

These programs aim to educate students about the benefits of leading healthy lifestyles as well as building trust between the students and health service staff.

Sincetheirinceptionwehaveseenexcellentresultsnotonlyinstudents’feedback but also in the increased usage of Timboon and District Healthcare Service by young people.

Women’s Health Night - Dr. Feelgood (Centre) with student waitresses


79 year old Paula Steen of Timboon completed the Multiple Sclerosis Melbourne Summer Cycle Marathon with her brother on the 21st February 2010. It was her first competitive 40 kilometre bike ride which took her fromPrincessParkovertheWestGateBridge,throughWilliamstownandbackto Princess Park. Paula only began training (cycling) for the event one month before.

Paula contributes her ability to stay fit and feel young to her involvement in the community and her regular attendance attheexerciseprogramsprovidedby Timboon and District Healthcare Service.

Paulaattendstheweeklyexerciseprograms of tai chi and strength training run by staff member Tracey Heeps. Paula also sought advice from our physiotherapist in preparation for the bike ride.

Paula swims regularly either by travelling on the Timboon and District healthcareServiceaquazonebusonMondaymorningsortheWednesdaymorning Corangamite Shire Council bus to Colac.

PaulaattendsexercisetomusicattheTimboon Hall on Fridays.

aswellasherexerciseroutinePaulafinds time to be the Secretary of the Arthritis Group, which meets the second Friday of the month. As well she regularly volunteers for the Timboon and District Healthcare Service ‘meals on wheels’ program.

Paula is always ready to try something new and contributes her youthfulness to “keeping fit, health and busy”.

Community involvement and exercisekeepsPaula Steen young

“Paula contributes her ability to stay fit and feel young to her involvement in the community and her regular attendance attheexerciseprograms”


Keeping you informed

Communication StrategyA communication strategy has been developed this year to ensure we are providing the community and key stakeholders with information on our activities. Improvements have included:

What’sOnandQuarterlyThis year has seen the commencement of a regular ‘Quarterly’ bulletin, providing up to date information on services, regular and special health promotion activities as well as health information. Also on a monthly basis ‘What’sOn’isdistributed.If youmissed out on the printed copy, these bulletins are available on the website. Also you may receive these publications regularly via email.

Websitetokeepyouuptodateonwhenexerciseclasses, physiotherapy, podiatry or any other service is operating, you may go to www.timboonhealthcare.com.au and find our calendar of events plus an outline of all services available.

Newspaper ArticlesRegular reports and public notices are placed regularly in the local newspaper on our services, upcoming events and major achievements.

Members of the Timboon and district community have been

enjoying the weekly challenge of both swimming and aqua

aerobics at Aquazone in Warrnambool on a Monday morning.

Currently 14 people make the trip. One of the regular ‘exercisers’ Elaine Finnigan

said that “the group makes you go and it doesn’t feel like another car trip to

Warrnambool”. Paula Steen also likes going on the bus as it “cheaper than driving

yourself and you get a longer time in the pool.”

So with more room on the bus feel free to make a booking for next Monday.

You could try:

Aqua aerobics class at 10.00am,

Go for a SWIM or work out in the GYM

Aquazone Bus

Timboon Dental ClinicWe welcome the return of a Private Dental Clinic to Timboon as well as Teen Dental

and Public School Dental programs to Timboon and District Healthcare Service.

Private Dental Clinic

A private clinic is provided by Dr. Donna Mercado.

Dr Mercado is currently director of dental services at South

West Healthcare and the three dentists will continue to work

in Warrnambool. Dentists will be available every Saturday and

every second Friday.

Dr Mercado is only providing a private service in Timboon.

Locals wanting a subsidised service will still have to travel to

Warrnambool.

The Dental Clinic will provide general restorative work,

crown and bridge work, full and partial dentures, extractions,

minor surgery, implant restorations and root canal treatment.

To make an appointment contact, Timboon and District

Healthcare Service on 5558 6049.

Teen Dental Program

Dr Mercado can also provide services under the ‘teen dental

program’ which is an incentive by Medicare to offer every

teen with preventative dental care. Local teens are eligible for

basic dental care, including cleaning and x-rays which will be

reimbursed by Medicare. To make an appointment contact,

Timboon and District Healthcare Service on 5558 6049.

Public School Dental Clinic

A Public School Dental Service commenced at Timboon and

District Healthcare Service on Tuesday 23rd February as an

outreach of South West Healthcare Warrnambool’s Dental

Clinic. Jenny Juschkat (Dental Therapist) is attending the

Clinic, accompanied by a Dental Assistant.

The clinic operates every second Tuesday from 9am to 4pm.

Who is eligible to utilise the service and fees involved

1. All preschool aged children

Health care Card holders: No Fee

Non Health Care Card holders: These children are

required to pay $28.00 per child per course of treatment.

2. All school aged children (Grade Prep to 6)

Health Care Card holders: No Fee

Non Health Care Card holders: These children are

required to pay $28.00 per child per course of treatment.

3. Year 7 to 12 and teenagers up to 18 years (and are

enrolled in full time studies ie TAFE, (apprenticeship/

traineeships), University

Health Care Card holders only: No Fee

The Dental Therapist will NOT see the following patients

1. Persons under the MEDICARE TEEN DENTAL PROGRAM

2. Adult patients (over 18 years old) and not enrolled in full

time studies.

Making an appointment / Consent & Permission

Appointments are made by phoning South West Healthcare

Dental Clinic 5564 4250. Please make sure that you make it

clear to the receptionist that the appointment is for TIMBOON.

Please have your current Healthcare Card/Pension Card ready

when making the appointment.

A photocopy of the HCC/Pension Card is required at the first

appointment to confirm details, together with written parental/

guardian permission to have dental treatment done if child is

unaccompanied by parent/guardian.

Bus Departs for Aquazone 9.00 am

Depart home for Timboon at 11.30am

Arrive Timboon approx 12.30

Cost - Aquazone Pool Charges

BOOKINGS ESSENTIAL / Ph: 5558 6049From the CEOWelcome to the first edition of our Quarterly magazine. Our aim is to provide you with an insight into the various activities taking place at Timboon and District Healthcare Service on a regular basis.

Different services will be highlighted from time to time. This new format to ‘HEY’ arises from community consultation undertaken late last year on how to improve communications with the community and promote and advertise upcoming events. You may have already seen our new one page monthly ‘What’s On’, which is distributed on the alternative months to this Quarterly. Also our website has been updated and the ‘Quarterly’ and the ‘What’s On’ is available on the web – www.timboonhealthcare.com.au Further additions in the coming months are planned for the website which will make it easier to check on upcoming events.

Our staff will continue to provide educational material and hints on staying healthy and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

We hope you enjoy our new format and we welcome your feedback and advice on any topics or information you might like included.

New staff and changing rolesHealth Promotion – Carly Boutcher and Eleanor MarshallCarly Boutcher has been appointed to a new full-time health promotion position. Carly’s role will provide for an expansion of our important health promotion programs throughout Timboon and Cobden district communities.Eleanor Marshall has replaced Lyn Russell whilst she is on leave.

Diabetes Education – Ingrid RialIngrid completed the diabetes educators course through Deakin University in 2009 and is now the Diabetes Educator for Timboon and Cobden. This role involves seeing patients on a one-to-one basis fortnightly in Timboon and Cobden. She will also be involved in setting up programs for people with diabetes in the community. Ingrid will work with the Cobden diabetes support group and aims to establish a youth group for kids with chronic illness.

A diabetes workshop is to be held on Tuesday 15th April between 10am and 2pm for those with diabetes, family and friends.

Diversional Program Activities – Enid O’ConnorEnid began this role in January. Working two days per week facilitating client centred holistic care which aims to support, challenge, and enhance physical, social, psychological, intellectual, cultural and spiritual well-being of residential and respite clients at Timboon and District Healthcare Service.

Men’s Shed – Sheryl O’ConnorSheryl O’Connor has been employed to facilitate the development of a Men’s Shed in Timboon. A Men’s shed is a place for men to come together, to capture and share their skills and experiences. It’s a place to build the health and wellbeing of men of all ages.Look in future newsletters for further developments of the Timboon Men’s Shed.

District Nursing– Linda McDonaldLinda grew up in Timboon and returns after many years to join our district nursing team as a registered nurse Division 1.

Post Graduate Nurse – Jessica BakerJessica has been employed for her postgraduate year to consolidate her university training.

An insight into the various activities taking place at Timboon and District Healthcare Service

Timboon Dental Clinic •

Social Activities •

Aquazone Bus •

Seasonal Flu Vaccination •

Taking Action on Diabetes •

Calendar of Events •

Community Noticeboard •

Diversional Program Activities – Enid O’Connor

Inside...

quarterlyautumn 2010

Timboon and District Healthcare

Responses to the 2009 Quality of Care Report

We value the comments we received from the 47 people who completed the feedback form.

Respondents were requested to rate questions from 1 to 5 rate1=Excellent,5=Poor

Excellent Very Good Good

The Report depicts activities and achievements 87% 13%

The Report is well presented 93% 7%

The Report is easy to read 91% 7% 2%

The Report gives confidence in choosing my care at Timboon and District Healthcare Service 87% 13%

The graphs are easy to understand 82% 18%


OurStaffGeneral PractitionersDr. Warwick Rousethereturnof Dr.Warwickrouseto Timboon was most welcome by the Healthcare Service and the community. After ten or so years attimboon,Warwickandhisfamilychosetore-locatetonorthernNSWforseveralyears.Wearefortunatethat he has returned and is practising both as a general practitioner and GP anaesthetist.

Dr. Andrea Hedglandafterexperiencingtimboononasevenweek locum from New Zealand in the early part of 2009, Dr. Hedgland chose to return and she and her family have settled into Timboon.

Professional DevelopmentProviding both a high quality and safe service relies very much upon both the dedication and training of our staff. Staff undertakes regular competency audits and mandatory training in life support.

A core value of the organisation is encouraging professional development of staff. For a small rural health service to deliver a wide range of services it is essential that

staff is multi-skilled. This requires staff to undertake regular upskilling

and professional development.

Courses and workshops attended by staff during 2009/10:

Emergency• Emergencynursingshortcourse

General Medicine• Basicsinwardmanagement• Modern medical and surgical

nursing• Clinical audits• No lifting workshop• No lift update• Power of attorney

• Palliative care• Stop the violence conference

Chronic Disease• australianDiabetesEducators

Association Conference• Heart Research Centre & Quit

australiaWorkshop• Flinders Tool Training• Project Management• Graduate Certificate in advising on

Chronic Disease/Condition

Diversional therapy• Leisure and Lifestyle

District Nursing• Medical Study Day• Dementia• Mental Health First Aid Training• WoundManagement

Home and Community Care• Active Service Model state-wide

seminar• Active Service Model training• HACC Conference• Flinders Model of Health

Physical Activity• PhysicalactivityforOlderPeople• Tai Chi for Arthritis

Health Promotion• Core of Life• familyPlanningVictoria–Sexual

Health• Australian Health Promotion

Association Conference• Pap Test Accreditation

Dr. Andrea Hedgland

Dr. Warwick Rouse

Anne McMeel, Director of Nursing


The willingness of volunteers to give of their time is a vital part of the success of Timboon and District Healthcare Service in providing a caring and responsive service.

The volunteers at Timboon and Cobden support a range of services for frail aged members of our community and the visually impaired.

These programs include:

• MealsonWheels• Communitytransport• adultDayactivities• VisuallyImpairedGroup• redCrosstransport

Years of ServiceFor more than 30 years volunteers have been delivering meals and in fact several volunteers are still delivering meals 30 years on and a large number of our meals on wheels volunteers have contributed 20 or more years of service.

SuzannePope,SylviahanelandPaulaSteen were recognised for 30 years or more of volunteering to meals on wheels.Certificates of appreciation recognising between 20 - 30+ years of service to mealsonwheelswereawardedto:

alanLeCouteur,PaulaSteen,SuzannePope, Sylvia Hanel, Frances Thompson, BettyO’Brien,MavisandtimCouch,Nell and Les Joiner, Carmel Flanagan, Evelynthompson,hazelCollinsandDorothyandDennisBettens.

Cobden meals on wheels volunteers were celebrated at a special function recognising the volunteers, the coordinating role of the Quota Club and Cobden District Health Services who cook the meals.

Withoutvolunteersandstaff behindthe scenes this service would not be possible.

Volunteers Celebrated

“The willingness of volunteers to give of their time is a vital part of the success of Timboon and District Healthcare Service in providing a caring and responsive service”

Mavis & Tim Couch, Betty O’Brien, Nell and Les Joiner


Your Views Are ValuedWevalueyourcommentsandsuggestionsastohowwecanbettermeetyourhealthandwelfareneeds.Complaints are valued as an opportunity for us to continue to improve our service.

Patients/clientsareencouragedtodiscussissueswiththeseniorstaff memberondutyortheChief ExecutiveOfficer.

Acute Hospital Care24houraccidentandEmergency

Day Surgical Procedures

Diagnostic Procedures

General Medicine

Midwifery Services

Obstetrics/Gynaecology

Palliative Care

Diagnostic ServicesPathology

Aged Care – Residential andhomeBasedServicesAged Residential and Respite Care

Community Aged Care

Support services to older persons in their own home

Adult Day Centre

Community NursingContinence Resource

Chronic Disease Management

District (Home) Nursing

DiabetesEducation

MaternityOutreach/DomiciliaryVisits

Palliative Care Nursing

Post Acute Care

Women’shealth

Home and Community Care - Aged & Disability SupportAssessment and Case Management

Delivered Meals

Domestic Assistance

Home Maintenance

Personal Care

Respite Care

Community Transport

Planned Activity Groups

ExerciseandRehabilitation Programs – Active LifestyleBetterBalance

BounceBackwithBabes

Circuit

Gentle&rehabilitationExercises

Strength Training

Tai Chi

healthEducationBetterhealthSelf Management

Childbirth Classes

EarlyChildhoodreadingGroup

Health Promotion asthmaEducation

Community&SchoolBasedhealthPromotion Programs

Health Screenings

Primary Care Services Counselling

Chiropractic (private)

Dental Services

Nutrition

Naturopathy (private)

Occupationaltherapy

Osteopathy(private)

Physiotherapy

Podiatry (public & private)

Speech Pathology

Support GroupsArthritis

Diabetes Support

Men’s Shed

Visually Impaired

Family & Youth ServicesCounselling

Youth Activities

TIMBOON & DISTRICT HEALTHCARE SERVICE21 Hospital RoadTimboon, VIC 3268p: (03) 5558 6000f: (03) 5598 3565e: [email protected]

Community Servicesp: (03) 5558 6049

Community Health Nurse - Cobdenp: (03) 5595 3150

of care report€¦ · 2 / timboon & district healthcare service quality of care report 2009-10...

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