AN EFFECTIVE LINK – A PATIENT STORY
An admission to a large hospital in the city is a daunting process for many, as indeed it was for Mulwala resident Valerie who had recently experienced a run of poor health leading to multiple hospital admissions and explained that there were definitely some differences between her experiences. Valerie was transferred back to Yarrawonga Health's Acute ward and states "I couldn't fault the care that I received". Staff were always available, were continually checking in to make sure that she had everything she needed, and that she always felt safe. Valerie also appreciated the visits by the Physiotherapist during her stay, which resulted in a timely discharge and subsequent referral to Community Services for Pulmonary Rehabilitation. When Valerie was discharged from the acute ward, she was surprised to receive a phone call from the Intake worker the same day, who assessed her needs and also provided referrals to Dietetics and Occupational Therapy. "The intake was very thorough, they asked me what I needed to see how urgent things were and then provided an appointment for the Dietitian on the spot", says Valerie. Since then, Valerie has attended two appointments with the Dietitian and is continuing to attend the Pulmonary Rehabilitation classes with the Physiotherapist while waiting for her Occupational Therapy home visit. She feels that the effective link between the Acute and Community Services at Yarrawonga Health has really enhanced her recovery; "I'm really enjoying meeting people at the classes and getting a better understanding of how to manage my condition" she said. "From start to finish, I honestly couldn't fault the wonderful work of all the staff."
"From start to finish, I honestly couldn't fault the wonderful work of all the staff."
- Valerie