Department of Health

Models of emergency care

The way in which care is delivered in acute care services, especially emergency departments, has changed dramatically over the past decade.

Different service models and models of care have been developed to meet the needs of specific cohorts of patients within existing facilities. Changes to service models aim to reduce waits, improve outcomes and enhance the consumer experience.

Some models (such as care coordination) focus on minimising avoidable emergency department presentations. Co-located general practitioner (GP) services provide alternatives to inpatient admission. Other models reduce the length of stay in hospital (fast track) and prevent unplanned readmissions.

Integrating care across primary and secondary care remains a key focus.

Co-located after-hours general practice clinics

Co-located after-hours general practice clinics are aimed at providing timely, safe and accessible primary care in or near emergency departments.

Emergency department care coordination

Care coordinators work in Victorian emergency department teams providing access for community services, continuity of care and timely patient discharge.

Emergency department streaming

Emergency department streaming ensures improvements in waiting times, early assessment and care, responsiveness and safety, and timely treatment and discharge.

Fast track services for emergency departments

Fast track services ensure timely care and discharge of patients presenting to Victorian emergency departments with less serious illnesses and injuries.

General Practice Liaison program

Victoria's General Practice Liaison program aims to realign hospital and community services, thereby diminishing the need for acute care.

Medihotels

Medihotels assist patients to transition between the community and acute sectors by providing accommodation and health services for self-caring patients.

Observation medicine

Observation medicine units provide alternate medical spaces in emergency departments for short-stay emergency patients.

Primary contact physiotherapy services

Primary contact physiotherapy gives experienced practitioners a first contact role in the treatment of suitable patients in Victorian emergency departments.

Reviewed 05 October 2015

Health.vic

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