Australia’s healthcare system is under increasing strain, with rising hospital admissions, growing pressure on emergency departments, and a surging demand for services driven by an ageing population. During 2023-24, South Australia’s public hospitals experienced a significant increase in emergency department (ED) presentations. Notably, the number of urgent (Category 3) presentations reached 258,283, marking the highest figure in 12 years and a 10% rise from the previous year.
In response, allied health professionals (AHPs) and in-home clinical support services have emerged as pivotal components in preventing unnecessary hospital admissions. Providers like KompleteCare are at the forefront of this shift, delivering personalised, home-based care that support client health needs early, reducing the risk of hospitalisation, and easing pressure on the system.
Pillars in preventative care
Allied health professionals encompass a diverse group of practitioners, including physiotherapists, occupational therapists, dietitians, speech pathologists, and social workers. These professionals are integral to the multidisciplinary approach in healthcare, focusing on prevention, rehabilitation, and management of chronic conditions.
Research indicates the expansion of allied health services can significantly reduce admissions and shorten lengths of hospital stays. This is achieved through early intervention, patient education, and managing chronic diseases.
Hospital-level care at home
Outpatient programs are a significant advancement in providing acute care outside traditional hospital settings. These programs offer hospital-level care, such as intravenous therapy, wound care, and monitoring of chronic conditions, within the comfort of the patient’s homes.
These benefits are multifaceted, as patients typically experience reduced exposure to hospital-acquired infections, and increased autonomy over their care decisions. From a systematic perspective too, these programs alleviate pressure on hospital resources.
Evidence supports the efficacy of outpatient care programs in preventing unnecessary hospital admissions. A study published in Medical Journal of Australia found patients receiving care through such programs had fewer readmissions and lower mortality rates compared to those receiving traditional inpatient care.
KompleteCare exemplifies this model, coordinating multidisciplinary care plans that keep clients safely at home while maintaining high standards of clinical oversight.
The path forward
To fully harness the potential of allied health and in-home clinical support in preventing hospital admissions, several steps are necessary:
- Policy support: Governments should continue to invest in and support programs that facilitate the integration of allied health services and in-home care models.
- Workforce development: Training and retaining of a skilled allied health workforce is crucial to meet the growing demand for these services.
- Public awareness: Educating the public about the availability and benefits of allied health and in-home clinical support can encourage patients to seek appropriate care options.
As the demand on Australia’s hospitals continues to grow, allied health professionals and in-home clinical support services have become indispensable in promoting a healthcare system focused on prevention and patient-centred care. By reducing hospital admissions, these services support a more sustainable and efficient healthcare system.
KompleteCare is a leading provider of in-home care services, offering a comprehensive range of services designed to prevent unnecessary hospital admissions. Our services include advanced clinical nursing, home support, and care management (to assist with navigating allied health services), all delivered by our dedicated team. By focusing on early intervention and continuous care, KompleteCare aims to reduce the need for hospital admissions and promote better health outcomes for those under our care.