Developing and testing a strategy to enhance a palliative approach and care continuity for people who have dementia
This new DoHA funded project is based in Perth, WA and in Launceston, Tasmania and, with ethics approval, the initial stage of study participant identification and selection has begun in both states. In tandem Community of Practice formal meetings are now in progress, forging professional networks to continue the efficacy of this study.
People who need a palliative approach to care because they have advanced dementia, or dementia plus other advanced life limiting illness, frequently receive services from community aged care providers, hospitals, and/or residential aged care facilities. It is an imperative to ensure a common understanding of key elements of best practice in this area across these health care sectors, including those elements related to inter sector transfers, and to implement these. This project will test and refine a strategy that instigates a Community of Practice comprising staff drawn from all three sectors, and including representation from respite providers and general practice, in metropolitan Perth (Western Australia) and in regional/rural Tasmania. Members of each Community of Practice will be supported to enhance the understanding of best practice within their workplace and champion its implementation. Each Community of Practice will also be supported to develop and implement inter sector transfer protocols aimed at promoting care continuity.
Outcomes:
The Tasmanian arm of the Community of Practice in Dementia project was launched in Launceston on Friday 27 August at the University of Tasmania’s Clinical School, Launceston General Hospital. Dr Neale Fong, Director of Curtin Health Innovation Research Institute officially launched the project in WA on 3rd September, at Curtin University.
Research Team:
Associate Professor Fran McInerney (Group Leader)
Professor Andrew Robinson, WDREC Co-Director
Dr Sharon Andrews (Contact person)
Dr Chris Toye, Curtin University WA
Barbara Horner
M Jiwa
K Holloway
D Slater
Professor Jenny Abbey
Professor Michael Ashby, DHHS Tasmania