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CONFERENCE BOOKLET

ALLIED HEALTH ASSISTANT CONFERENCE 2011

The emerging roles of the Allied Health Assistant

1st Hume Region Allied Health Assistant Conference

Monday 6 June 2011

The Old Priory ~ Beechworth

Encouragement and strength to overcome obstacles

Contents

Acknowledgements 1

Conference steering committee 1

Conference content disclaimer 1

Welcome 2

Information for delegates 3

Conference award 5

Conference dinner 5

Venue Map 6

Program 8

Keynote speaker biographies 10

Concurrent speaker biographies 12

Keynote abstracts 16

Concurrent abstracts 18

Acknowledgements

The Conference Organisers would like to convey their sincere appreciation to the people and agencies that have made the 1st Hume Region Allied Health Assistant possible. Our deepest thanks are directed to the Keynote and Concurrent Presenters for their important contribution and effort.

Special gratitude is directed to the Department of Health, Hume Region; Upper Murray Health and Community Services; The Australian Institute of Flexible Learning; and the Hume Region Allied Health Leaders Council for the significant level of support provided. Without this support this pioneering conference would not have transpired.

Conference steering committee

• Mary Hoodless, Director of Community Services, Upper Murray Health and Community Services; and General Manager, Australian Institute of Flexible Learning, Corryong

• Jodie Nolan, Health Workforce Development Coordinator, Department of Health – Hume Region, Wodonga

• Lyndal Cass, Manager of Registration, Australian Institute of Flexible Learning, Corryong

• Wendy Amor, Manager of Community Rehabilitation Centre and Physiotherapy, Goulburn Valley Health, Shepparton

• Louise Sharkey, Director of Community Services, Seymour District Memorial Hospital, Seymour

• Carmen Baroni, Allied Health Assistant, Mercy Health Albury; and Chair of the AHA Vocational Leadership Consortium, Wodonga TAFE

• Les Lambert, Team Leader Service Improvement, Department of Health – Hume Region, Wangaratta.

Conference content disclaimer

All conference content, including live, recorded, and written presentations, represents the opinion of the authors and speakers and should not be construed to be those of the conference organisers and steering committee (this includes: Department of Health, Victoria; Upper Murray Health & Community Services; Australian Institute of Flexible Learning, and the Hume Region Allied Health Leaders Council). The conference content is intended for educational and informational purposes only and it is the responsibly of delegates and readers to assess the accuracy, validity, and credibility of the conference content.

Hume Region Allied Health Assistant Conference 2011

Page 2

Welcome

Welcome from the Conference Organisers

Welcome all delegates and presenters to the 1st Hume Region Allied Health Assistant

Conference!

The inaugural Hume Region Allied Health Assistant Conference aims to promote the role of the Allied Health Assistant (AHA) and provide locally delivered professional development and networking opportunities for rural and regional AHAs. The Conference is a joint initiative of the Department of Health - Hume Region, Upper Murray Health and Community Services, The Australian Institute of Flexible Learning, and the Hume Region Allied Health Leaders Council.

The aim of the conference is to deliver a regionally held conference for AHAs that provides an opportunity for AHAs professional development and networking. The objectives include:

• To provide regionally located professional development for AHAs.

• To value the AHA role and acknowledge it as a distinct professional group with its own sub specialities within health care workers and the interdisciplinary team.

• To provide an opportunity to develop a regional AHA network.

• To increase the understanding and awareness of the AHA role.

• To offer presentation opportunities to regional allied health practitioners.

The theme of the conference is The emerging roles of the allied health assistant. Abstracts for the conference have been reviewed and selected by the steering committee on the basis of the role of the AHA in relation to:

• Promoting the extended scope of practice of the AHA

• Innovative models of supervision

• Models of professional development

• How the AHA role complements services such as the HACC Active Service Model

• Demonstrating workforce redesign and flexibility

• Ideas or models to form a regional network for peer support and professional development.

We hope that you find the conference interesting and educational, as well as an opportunity to network with other Allied Health Assistants and Practitioners from around the region, the state and nation.

Jodie Nolan Mary Hoodless Lyndal Cass Department of Health Upper Murray Health & Australian Institute of Hume Region Community Services Flexible Learning Conference Co-Organiser Conference Co-Organiser Conference Co-Organiser

Information for delegates

Conference venue

The Old Priory

8 Priory Lane

Beechworth VIC 3747

t. 03 5728 1024

f. 03 5728 2035

e. [email protected]

w. www.oldpriory.com.au

Nestled amongst the grandeur of an old world gardens and bathed in an atmosphere created by man’s quest for gold stands The Old Priory. The Old Priory is centrally located on 3 acres in historic Beechworth, overlooking the famous Beechworth Gorge. The Old Priory was formerly known as the Brigidine convent of Mt. St. Joseph. On 1st October 1886, four Brigidine Nuns left Abbeyleix, Ireland to sail to Australia. After arriving at Williamstown on November 14th 1886, they finally arrived in Beechworth by train on Saturday November 27th 1886, to a very enthusiastic public welcome. The Sisters immediately set about establishing a convent in the Oriental Bank building, which today is the old State Bank in Ford Street. This was the second Brigidine Convent to be established in Australia, the first being at Echuca, slightly earlier.

The Sisters took over the permanent charge of St. Joseph’s school on 17th January 1887 and in the same year purchased ten acres of land adjacent to the school. Stage one of the new convent and secondary school was begun there in 1887. The next few years saw much building and in 1904 a substantial new wing was complete. During it’s history the convent averaged 80 pupils, 30 of these being boarders, reaching a peak of 150 pupils in the 1960’s. The gradual drop in numbers led to the final closure of the school in 1978. This in turn led to the property being passed on to private enterprise. Since July 1986, the Bell family has proudly been restoring this grand old building to create a facility, which can be enjoyed by one and all1.

Travelling to the Old Priory Beechworth from Wangaratta (by car)

Beechworth is approximately 30 minutes from the centre of Wangaratta.

• Continue north along Murphy Street Wangaratta, through the roundabout and over the bridge, continuing onto Parfitt Road.

• Turn right onto the Great Alpine Road (Millers Cottage is on the corner)

• Continue along the Great Alpine Road for 10.9 km

• Take a slight left at Tarrawingee onto the Beechworth-Wangaratta Road. Continue along the Beechworth-Wangaratta Road for 22.3 km.

• Continue onto Bridge Street Beechworth.

• Continue onto Ford Street.

• Turn left onto Church Street.

• Take the first left onto Priory Lane. The venue is just past the school on the right.

1 Excerpts from: www.oldpriory.com.au

mailto:[email protected]

http://www.oldpriory.com.au/

http://www.oldpriory.com.au/


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Travelling to the Old Priory Beechworth from Wodonga (by car)

Beechworth is approximately 40 minutes from the centre of Wodonga.

• From High Street Wodonga, enter the roundabout and take the fourth exit (straight through) onto Beechworth Road.

• Continue straight along Beechworth Road for 5.3 km, going through 5 roundabouts.

• At the next roundabout turn right (take the third exit) onto the Beechworth-Wodonga Road, Leneva.

• Continue on the Beechworth-Wodonga Road for 31.8 km.

• Continue onto Sydney Road, Beechworth.

• Continue onto Ford Street, go through one roundabout.

• At the next crossroad turn right onto Church Street.

• Take the first left onto Priory Lane. The venue is just past the school on the right.

Parking

Free untimed parking is available on Priory Lane outside the venue.

Registration and information desk

Delegates and Presenters are requested to report to the Registration Desk upon arrival to confirm their attendance and receive their Name Tag, Conference Booklet, and Conference Satchel. The Registration Desk is located in the Entrance Foyer of the venue.

Conference satchel

Delegates and Presenters will receive a Conference Satchel upon registration. A copy of the Conference Booklet is located in your Satchel.

Certificate of Attendance

A Certificate of Attendance has been provided for you. It can be found in your Conference Satchel.

Evaluation

At the end of the Conference please take the time to complete your Conference Evaluation Form and return it to the Registration Desk as you leave the Conference. The Evaluation Form can be found in your Conference Satchel.

Mobile phone courtesy

It is requested that delegates ensure their mobile phones are switched off during Conference Sessions for the comfort of others.

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted inside the venue.

Duplication/Recording

Unauthorised photography, audio taping, video recording, digital taping or any other form of duplication is strictly prohibited in Conference Sessions.

Conference award

An award for Most Outstanding Conference Presentation will be made at the Hume Region Allied Health Assistant Conference. All concurrent presentations are eligible to win this award. Keynote presentations are ineligible.

The judging panel for the award consists of:

• Wendy Amor, Manager of Community Rehabilitation Centre and Physiotherapy, Goulburn Valley Health, Shepparton

• Gillian Smith, Community Services Manager, Cobram District Health, Cobram

• Jacqui Verdon, Clinical Educator – Allied Health, Northeast Health Wangaratta

• Joy Ware, Program Manager Community Health Centre, Yarrawonga District Health Service.

Presentations will be judged on the following criteria:

• Quality of the abstract

• Quality of the content

• Methods / design

• Clarity of discussion

• Clarity of conclusion

• Relevance / significance

• Originality

• Presentation (e.g.: organisation, visual impact, presentation technique)

• Quality of answers during question time.

Conference dinner

A conference dinner will be held on Sunday 5 June 2011 at the Old Priory Beechworth from 6.30pm. The cost of the dinner is $40. A three course meal is included in the tariff. All drinks will be at bar prices. Delegate’s partners are welcome to attend the Conference Dinner.

The MC for the dinner is Mary Hoodless. Live music will be provided by a young local up and coming musician James Eggleston. James debut album is available for purchase.

We hope to see you there!


Page 6

Venue Map

Old Priory – Ground Floor Map

Old Priory – Lower Ground Floor Map


Page 8

Program

08:30 – 09:00 Conference Registration Opens Arrival with Tea and Coffee

09:00 – 10:25 SESSION 1 – Main conference room

Chair: Mr Les Lambert, Team Leader Service Improvement, Department of Health, Hume Region

09:00 – 09:10

Welcoming Address

Mr Tony Dunn

Director, Health & Aged Care, Department of Health, Hume Region

09:10 – 09:40

Keynote Speaker

How do we sustain a dynamic AHA workforce? Embracing the AHA scope of practice and establishing formal recognition.

Ms Carmen Baroni

Allied Health Assistant, Community Therapy Unit, Mercy Health Albury

Chair of the AHA Vocational Leadership Consortium, Wodonga TAFE

09:40 – 09:55

Keynote Speaker

Physiotherapy Assistants and the APA

Ms Cindy Higgins Beth Fivaz

Manager, Victorian Branch Allied Health Assistant

Australian Physiotherapy Association Southern Health

09:55 – 10:25

Keynote Speaker

Workforce Innovation – Allied Health Assistants

Ms Catherine Elvins Ms Sarah Bird

HMA, Melbourne Workforce Innovation, Department of Health, Melbourne

10:25 - 10:50 Morning Tea

10:50 – 12:30 SESSION 2 – Main Conference Room SESSION 3 - Second Conference Room

Chair: Ms Mary Hoodless, Director of Community Services, Upper Murray Health & Community Services

Chair: Ms Gayle Sammut, Manager Allied Health Services, Goulburn Valley Health

10:55 - 11:10

Allied Health Assistance in Mental Health a new frontier

Mr Gregory S Meyland

Grade 3 IV Allied Health Assistant, Northeast Health Wangaratta

Nutrition Risk Screening completed by an Allied Health Assistant

Miss Tamara Gilding

Allied Health Assistant, Caulfield Hospital, Alfred Health

11:15 – 11:30

Screening for Malnutrition: The role of the Allied Health Assistant

Ms Barbara Kitto

Allied Health Assistant, Goulburn Valley Health

Allied Health Assistants’ Role in Fast-track Orthopaedic Program

Ms Kristin Smale

Physiotherapist, Northeast Health Wangaratta

11:35 – 11:50

Pathways to AHA Employment from a Fitness Professionals Perspective

Mrs Julia Sabaliauskas

Allied Health Assistant – Exercise Therapist, Bendigo Health

AHAs Supporting Allied Health Professionals

Mrs Jacinta McKimmie

Allied Health Assistant, Upper Murray Health and Community Services

11:55 - 12:10 Developing a best practice dementia care model in acute care

The “Active Lorikeets” project

Mrs Julianne Webb

Mrs Mary Bray

Allied Health Assistant, Casey Hospital, Southern Health

Allied Health Assistant, Gippsland Lakes Community Health

12:15 – 12:30

Living Well With Diabetes program an Allied Health Assistant’s perspective

Mrs Tracey Dear

Allied Health Assistant, Gippsland Lakes Community Health

Embracing Opportunity

Mrs Christina Mildren

Speech Pathologist, Greater Southern Area Health Service

12:30 – 13:25 Lunch

13:25 – 14:25 SESSION 4 - Main Conference Room SESSION 5 - Second Conference Room

Chair: Ms Gayle Sammut, Manager Allied Health Services, Goulburn Valley Health

Chair: Mr Les Lambert, Department of Health, Hume Region

13:30 - 13:45

Advanced Practice Role of AHA in Innovative Supervision

Ms Fiona Daye

Allied Health Assistant, Goulburn Valley Health

Demonstrating workforce redesign and flexibility

Ms Leanne Priestley

Occupational Therapist, Western District Health Service, Hamilton

13:50 – 14:05

Development of a remote supervision Allied Health Assistant workforce model

Mrs Carol Parker

Project Manager, Collaborative Health Education and Research Centre, Bendigo Health

Grade 3 Allied Health Assistant – The Future Workforce

Ms Elisha Van Leeuwen

Allied Health Assistant, Casey Hospital, Southern Health

14:10 – 14:25

Advancing AHA’s clinical practice: The development of an AHA Speech Pathology training package

Mrs Joanne Tasevski

Allied Health Assistant, Northern Health

Sharing the Load to Double the Service

Mrs Michele Walton

Dietitian, Greater Southern Area Health Service

14:30 – 15:50 SESSION 6 - Main Conference Room

Chair: Ms Mary Hoodless, Director of Community Services. Upper Murray Health & Community Services,

14:35 – 15:05

Keynote Speaker

Refocussing HACC Services in Victoria

Ms Kath Paine Heather Henderson Aaron Dove

Project Officer Active Service Model Community Care Worker Client

Department of Health, Melbourne Moira Healthcare Alliance

15:05 – 15:35

Keynote Speaker

The contribution of assistants to community based rehabilitation services

Dr Anna Moran

Lecturer in Health Studies and Honours, School of Community Health, Charles Sturt University

15:35 - 15:45

Awards Ceremony

Ms Wendy Amor

Manager of Community Rehabilitation Centre and Physiotherapy, Goulburn Valley Health

15:45 – 15:50 Close of Conference

Ms Mary Hoodless

Director of Community Services, Upper Murray Health & Community Services

General Manager, Australia Institute of Flexible Learning


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Keynote speaker biographies

Ms Carmen Baroni

Allied Health Assistant, Community Therapy, Mercy Health Albury

Carmen Baroni has been working full time with Mercy Health – Albury as an Occupational Therapy Assistant for 5 years. Carmen has successfully completed Cert IV Allied Health Assistant, Cert III Health & Fitness -Aged Care and Cert III Business Administration. In partnership with Wodonga TAFE, Carmen is currently the Chairperson for the Allied Health Assistance Vocational Leadership Consortium. The Consortium provides leadership in fieldwork education of Allied Health Assistant students and support to practicing Allied Health Assistants. With almost 20 years of experience, Carmen has a wide range of knowledge and skills gained from working as an Allied Health Assistant in a variety of settings within acute and subacute services in both New South Wales and Victoria. Throughout her career, Carmen has had the benefit of working collaboratively with numerous Allied Health Professional teams and other community services. In her current role, Carmen works with community clients over 65 years and those with a permanent disability. Her role aims to assist clients to maintain their independence through preventative health measures. Carmen’s passion is to continue to work as part of a dynamic Allied Health Team striving to deliver high quality, innovative interventions to empower the wider community.

Ms Sarah Bird

Senior Policy Officer, Workforce Innovation, Department of Health, Melbourne

Sarah is a Senior Policy Adviser in the Workforce Innovation unit of the Victorian Department of Health. She has held this position since September 2007 and is currently leading and processing work in the Allied Health Assistant workforce across Victoria. She is the current chair of the National Allied Health Assistant Working Group and manages a range of projects that facilitate articulated career pathways (with multiple entry and exit points) into health from secondary school into VET and university. Prior to joining the department Sarah held a position at AusAID working on the Regional Assistance Mission to Solomon Islands (RAMSI) program. Sarah has a Masters of International Politics from the University of Melbourne and has completed a Bachelor of Arts (majoring in Politics and English).

Ms Catherine Elvins

Managing Consultant, Healthcare Management Advisors Pty Ltd

Catherine has been a consultant in the health and community sector for the past seven years. She joined Healthcare Management Advisors in January 2007. As a consultant Catherine has undertaken assignments related to the delivery of health, community, disability services and Aboriginal health. She specialises in workforce development programs, service development projects and program evaluations. Catherine has led a number or recent projects related to workforce development in

Cindy Higgins

Manager Victorian Branch, Australian Physiotherapy Association

Cindy joined APA in June 2009 as the Victorian Branch Manager. With an extensive membership background and experience in the not-for-profit sector Cindy is a passionate believer in the role that Professional Associations play for their members. During the past two years Cindy has worked with the Victorian Branch Council to raise the profile and value of Allied Health Assistants among Physiotherapists and the wider health care sector. In October 2010 Cindy was invited by the Department of Health to participate in the project to develop a supervision and delegation framework for Allied Health Assistants.

Dr Anna Moran

Lecturer in Health Studies, School of Community Health, Charles Sturt University, Albury

Dr Anna Moran qualified as a physiotherapist in 2000 and has worked in a variety of clinical areas in Australia and the United Kingdom (UK). Her clinical interest in the complexities of delivering social and health care in the community led her to take a research position with leading workforce researchers at the University of Sheffield in the UK where she was involved in a number of large scale research studies exploring skill mix in rehabilitation teams, in particular the contribution support workers make to the delivery and outcomes of community rehabilitation services. Anna is currently involved in a project with ACT Health examining the role of trainee allied health assistants in podiatry and speech pathology services. Anna moved back to Australia in 2008 and works as a lecturer in health studies and honours coordinator for the School of Community Health at Charles Sturt University, Albury, NSW.

the allied health area for the Department of Health including:

• Project to establish the current use and practices of Allied Health Assistants in Victorian health services;

• The assessment of current and projected undergraduate allied health clinical placement activity across Victorian health services for the Department of Health Phases 1 and 2; and

• Scoping of current mentoring practices to determine most effective delivery for ongoing rural and regional allied health support program.

Prior to being a consultant, Catherine was the Chief Executive Officer of two community health services in metropolitan Melbourne and worked as an Executive Officer at the Victorian Healthcare Association, with responsibility for the Community Health Division, supporting over 60 community health centres across the State. Prior to this she worked for five years as a community solicitor in a number of inner suburban community legal services. Catherine has a Masters in Business Administration, Bachelor of Arts, and Bachelor of Laws. She is an Associate Fellow of the Australian College of Health Service Executives.


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Concurrent speaker biographies

Mrs Mary Bray

Allied Health Assistant, Southern Health, Vic

First time presenter

In 1987 Mary initiated a dementia program in Tasmania gaining extensive professional qualifications. In 2003 she commenced at Southern Health working in the subacute and acute settings. Mary’s primary professional interest is to improve the care of people with dementia and share her knowledge with all multidisciplinary staff.

Ms Fiona Daye

Allied Health Assistant, Goulburn Valley Health, Vic


Fiona is an AHA employed at Goulburn Valley Health. Fiona has a Certificate IV in Allied Health Assistant, Certificate IV in Nursing and Certificate III in Fitness. Fiona supervises and organises supervision for AHA’s on placement at GV Health.

Mrs Tracey Dear

Allied Health Assistant, Gippsland Lakes Community Health, Vic


Tracey commenced as an Allied Health Assistant at Gippsland Lakes Community Health in July 2010. Working for many years at the Australian Red Cross Blood Service as a Division 1 Nurse, she has a wide range of experience to draw on in her new career.

Miss Tamara Gilding

Allied Health Assistant, Caulfield Hospital, Alfred Health, Melbourne, Vic


Tamara Gilding is an Allied Health Assistant working in the Nutrition Department at Caulfield Hospital. Having recently completed a Bachelor of Health Sciences majoring in Nutrition and

Ms Kath Paine

Active Service Model Senior Project Officer, HACC Aged & Care, Department of Health, Melbourne

Kath Paine is an experienced District Nurse who has worked in a variety of clinical and project roles over her 20 years in the community. In 2007 to 2010 Kath implemented 2 successful Active Service Model (ASM) pilot projects at the Royal District Nursing Service, Melbourne. Kath is now a Senior Project Officer at the Department of Health working in the HACC Aged Care team on the implementation of the Active Service Model.

Exercise Science at Deakin University, Tamara is enjoying the opportunity to expand her knowledge through research and experience in the field of Nutrition.

Ms Barbara Kitto

Allied Health Assistant, Goulburn Valley Health, Vic


Barbara has been at GV Health for four years in the role of an AHA with the Occupational Therapists, Physiotherapists and Diabetes Centre. She now facilitates the Better Health Self Management Group Programs and works with the Dietitians one day a week on the Rehabilitation ward using the Malnutrition Screening Tool.

Mrs Jacinta McKimmie

Allied Health Assistant, Upper Murray Health and Community Services, Vic


Jacinta McKimmie is an allied health assistant at UMHCS. She has been working in this field for three years. She lives in Corryong and run a farming business with her husband and two children

Mr Gregory S Meyland

Grade 3 IV Allied Health Assistant, Northeast Health Wangaratta, Vic

Allied Health Assistant with Northeast Health Wangaratta for 10 years, Gregory is involved with the development of new and existing programs within Sub Acute Ambulatory Care continuing on with further professional development at GOTAFE and University of Melbourne Rural campus to enhance the value add factor of the AHA.

Mrs Christina Mildren

Speech Pathologist, Greater Southern Area Health Service, NSW


Christina Mildren is a Certified Practising Speech Pathologist and member of Speech Pathology Australia. She has been working in Generalist Speech Pathology in Community Health for 17 years. Her qualifications include Bachelor of Applied Science-Speech Pathology and Cert IV Training and Assessment.

Mrs Carol Parker

Project Manager, Collaborative Health Education and Research Centre, Bendigo Health, Vic

Carol is a physiotherapist by training and moved to Australia from the UK in 1986. She currently works for the Collaborative Health Education and Research Centre at Bendigo Health as a Project Manager whilst studying for her PhD in Physiotherapy in her spare time.

Ms Leanne Priestley

Occupational Therapist, Western District Health Service, Hamilton, Vic



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Leanne is an occupational therapist. Leanne was a mature student to the profession after having worked as an AHA. She has worked in acute, sub acute and community settings. Leanne currently works at Western district Health Service in Hamilton (SW Vic).

Mrs Julia Sabaliauskas

Allied Health Assistant Exercise Therapist, Bendigo Health, Vic

Julia Sabaliauskas has been involved within the fitness industry for over 30 years. She is currently employed by Bendigo Health as an AHA Exercise Therapist within the Transition Care Program (TCP) and Rural Health Team (RHT). She is a fully registered Fitness Instructor, Personal Trainer and Older Adults Fitness Trainer.

Ms Kristin Smale

Physiotherapist, Northeast Health Wangaratta, Vic


Since graduating from LaTrobe University in 2000, Kristin has worked in public health at Northeast Health Wangaratta and Royal Adelaide Hospitals. In her current role as a grade 2 physiotherapist, Kristin works in Acute at Northeast Health, Wangaratta.

Mrs Joanne Tasevski

Allied Health Assistant, Northern Health, Vic


Joanne Tasevski has been working as an Allied Health Assistant (AHA) for 4 years. She is currently a Grade 3 AHA working across 4 disciplines although is involved predominately with the Speech Pathology department at Northern Health in Victoria. She holds a Certificate 4 in Allied Health Assistants along with a Diploma in Health Science. Joanne has a particular interest in expanding the AHA role in health organisations. Looking at ways at developing and improving clinical skills and knowledge through a competency based approach.

Ms Elisha Van Leeuwen

Allied Health Assistant, Casey Hospital, Southern Health, Vic


Elisha is an AHA with 7 years experience across Acute, Sub Acute and Aged Care. She has worked in most Allied Health Disciplines and has a strong interest in Neurological conditions. Elisha is currently working at Casey Hospital as a Grade 3 AHA

Mrs Michele Walton

Dietitian, Greater Southern Area Health Service, NSW


Michele is an Accredited Practising Dietitian who has been working in as a rural clinical and community dietitian for over 13 years. Her qualifications include Bachelors of Science and Primary Education, a Graduate Diploma in Nutrition and Dietetics and a Certificate IV in Training and Assessment.

Mrs Julianne Webb

Allied Health Assistant, Gippsland Lakes Community Health, Vic


Julianne commenced as an Allied Health Assistant at Gippsland Lakes Community Health (GLCH) nine years ago and holds Certificate IV in Allied Health Assistance. With the support of GLCH and the Community Health services team, her role as an Allied Health Assistant has evolved and allowed her to be part of many worthwhile programs.


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Keynote abstracts

How do we sustain a dynamic AHA workforce? Embracing the AHA scope of practice and establishing formal recognition.

Baroni, C.

There has been a greater demand for AHA’s within the health service industry precipitated by an ageing population and an increase in chronic disease, contributing to longer waiting lists (not forgetting the ageing workforce). This demand has generated AHAs to take on more clinical diverse roles therefore providing the scope for AHP’s to focus their treatment strategies on higher levels of clinical intervention i.e. more comprehensive assessments and treatments. This has enabled a more effective delivery of service, producing better outcomes for clients, including shorter stays in acute facilities and reduced waiting lists. AHAs are no longer just a support role. AHAs have been employed for many years, but the recent push for recognised qualifications has seemed to ignite the discussion around job descriptions, skills, appropriate support and supervision. It has also highlighted the GAP between inexperienced and experienced AHAs with the same qualifications. So how do we bridge this gap? How do we acknowledge and distinguish between the two? At present for most AHAs across the country there is no recognition and no structure to their career pathway. AHAs are performing higher duties with some geographically isolated working in rural remote communities. This presentation will explore these apparent emerging roles that have generated a need for appropriate discussion on how best to support AHAs and explore their educational and professional development needs for a career pathway. There is a need for formal recognition of AHAs as a profession with its own unique skills, experience and qualifications. This will encourage job satisfaction, long term recruitment, respect and understanding of the full extent of the AHA role by other health professionals.

Workforce Innovation - Allied Health Assistants

Elvins, C., & Bird, S.

There are many challenges facing the health system in Australia including an aging population, increasing demand, higher consumer expectations, rising costs, technological advancements in patient care and an increase in chronic disease across the population. This rapidly changing environment means that the health workforce needs to adapt and innovate to meet future patient needs. It also highlights the importance of assistant, support and complementary workforce models that optimise the use of the existing skills in the current professional and assistant workforces. Greater utilisation of the allied health assistant (AHA) workforce is one aspect of a suite of activities being implemented by the Victorian Department of Health (the department) which are designed to support workforce and service sustainability and improve the system’s capacity to meet the community’s health needs into the future. A recent AHA scoping project funded by the department found that allied health professionals often have a poor understanding of the roles, skills and contribution AHAs can make to client outcomes and service design, particularly the ‘value add’ to therapy programs. In response to industry demand for further guidance and assistance in the development of consistent supervision and support structures for AHAs, the department has engaged Healthcare Management Advisors (HMA) to develop a

Supervision and Delegation Framework for the AHA workforce. Sarah Bird, will outline Victoria’s approach to supporting the AHA workforce and will provide an overview of the range of AHA related initiatives that have been implemented across the state. Catherine Elvins, Associate Director, HMA will provide a detailed overview of the AHA Supervision and Delegation Framework including the project methodology and the range of ways in which AHAs and AHA teams could use the Framework to support the development of AHA roles to meet emerging patient/client need.

Physiotherapy Assistants and the APA

Higgins, C.

Physiotherapists in the public sector and large private practices have long worked with assistants, particularly in the rehabilitation and aged care areas. These assistants hold a range of educational qualifications including a Certificate III in Allied Health Assistance, an enrolled nursing qualification, or a Degree in Human Movement. Substantial experience in the sector has also been highly valued. In 2004, the APA started working with the Community Services & Health Industry Skills Council (CS&HISC) to help develop the competencies for a Certificate IV in Allied Health Assistance (Physiotherapy) so that a uniform standard of education for assistants could be developed across the nation. In 2007, following wide consultation with the profession, the APA voted to create a membership category for Physiotherapy Assistants. This membership category was established with the prime objective to promote the development of a sustainable Physiotherapy Assistant workforce. It would also enrich Physiotherapy Assistants through professional development and networking opportunities with Physiotherapists and as well as other Assistants. Since the introduction of the Physiotherapy Assistant membership category in 2008 APA works locally via state branches to support this category with professional development opportunities, advocacy and most importantly the promotion of the value of PTA’s to over 11,000 physiotherapist members.

The contribution of assistants to community based rehabilitation services

Moran, A.

This presentation will cover a number of key areas pertaining to the rise, development and impact of the support worker / allied health assistant role in the United Kingdom. In particular, a synopsis of current research will be discussed and key factors identified from the evidence base that can be used to promote the role and impact of allied health assistants in community settings. A focus of the presentation will be the reporting of results from a recent study examining the way assistants are used in the delivery of older peoples' rehabilitative care, their interaction with other staff, and the relationship between assistant input to care and patient, staff and service outcomes. In summary, our study showed 1) that less dependent patients on admission were more likely to have a higher proportion of assistant input and 2) better patient outcomes were associated with a higher proportion of treatment by assistants. Questionnaire data indicated assistants were more


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likely to report an intention to leave their profession than qualified staff (P<0.001). Interviews indicate this may be influenced by high levels of role ambiguity and variation and limited career progression opportunities. Our research shows that there is potential for staff, in particular assistants, within community rehabilitation services to positively influence patient outcomes however work is needed to ensure assistant staff are given the opportunity to progress their skills and knowledge

Refocussing HACC Services in Victoria

Paine, K., & Dawson. B.

The Active Service Model (ASM) is a quality improvement initiative being implemented by all Home and Community Care (HACC) agencies throughout Victoria. This presentation will provide an overview of why we are refocussing HACC services, the overriding principles of ASM and how it is being implemented across the state. Heather Henderson will provide a case study that will discuss how ASM may be applied in service delivery and Aaron Dove will discuss the opportunities and outcomes that this model of care has provided him with.

Concurrent abstracts

Developing a best practice dementia care model in acute care

Bray, M.

In 2008 Casey Hospital, Southern Health, began a pathway to improve the hospital experience for patients with delirium and dementia. This presentation will give the audience an insight into the journey, sharing our successes and our challenges. My role as an AHA will be highlighted. With management support I have been given the opportunity to fulfil my passion by promoting the extended scope of practice of the AHA. Studies have shown that people with dementia have longer stays in hospital, are more likely to be discharged to residential care and their families are more likely to report that the hospital experience was a negative one. This paper will discuss the range of initiatives that took place at Casey Hospital from 2008 to 2011. It will highlight the role of the AHA in focus groups, education provision, development of activity boxes and a sensory care room, development of the dementia awareness week and the provision of ward based care and support. I am part of the team who will present at the Alzheimer’s Conference in Brisbane in May 2011. While work is in progress we feel we are better placed to meet the needs of this important client group into the future and the role of the AHA in this plan is crucial.

Reference:

Cassidy, E., Davies, H., O’Hara, R., Mumenthaler, M., Buffum, M., Tsui, P., Shakoori, R., Danielsen, C., Sheikh, J. (2001). Behavioural problems in older adults in acute care settings. Clinical Gerontologist 24(3/4) 3-13.

Advanced Practice Role of AHA in Innovative Supervision

Daye, F., Amor, W., & Sammut, G.

Goulburn Valley Health in partnership with Goulburn Ovens TAFE (GOTAFE) have provided clinical supervision for the Certificate IV Allied Health Assistant (AHA) training program from a regional workforce development perspective. The program has been underpinned by team based learning, the education provider partnership and clinician support, resulting in improved client outcomes and a skilled AHA workforce. The innovation is driven by the rapidly expanding role of the AHA, which has resulted from the emerging need for additional support for allied health clinicians working in various teams across the acute, subacute and community care sector. The role of the AHA has evolved in response to the changing scope of practice of health professionals, an ageing health workforce, the growth of innovative services for an ageing population, including fitness and wellbeing and changing management of chronic and complex conditions, underpinned by client self-management initiatives and inter-professional teams. By demonstrating leadership in vocational training and working in partnership with the regional VET sector provider, an innovative clinical liaison/supervision role has been trialled from within the AHA team. An AHA with a Cert IV in AHA qualification was co-opted to a Clinical Supervisory role for the supervision & organisation of the clinical placements through GV Health. Clinical placement across a range of allied health disciplines and programs is required for AHA training, and to demonstrate competency at the benchmarked Certificate IV level. Close liaison with the Coordinator of the GOTAFE Certificate IV program was required. The role has evolved to include organising the AHA specific professional development programs at GV Health and the clinical placements for the VET in Schools program through Allied Health services. In conclusion, the locally supported training program has enabled AHAs to attain qualifications, thus assisting clinicians to ensure clients achieve their identified outcomes.

Living Well With Diabetes program an Allied Health Assistants perspective

Dear, T.

Living Well With Diabetes is an 8 week program delivered by Gippsland Lakes Community Health that is funded by a combination of Medicare, Community Health funding and client fees. The delivery and content of the program is not unique but the funding and use of Allied Health Assistants are. Medicare subsidises the cost of an initial consultation with either an Exercise Physiologist or Dietician and 8 group sessions per year provided certain criteria are met. One of the roles of the Allied Health Assistant is to ensure that the Medicare requirements are met. This includes ensuring GP management plans, team care arrangements and the Referrals for Allied


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Health group services are in place and current for each client wishing to participate. The main role of the Allied Health Assistant is to act as the program facilitator. As well as the Medicare requirements, the AHA is responsible for ensuring that the program resources are prepared and current, liaising and arranging internal and external guest speakers and making sure that all pre-course elements are in place. Once the program is in operation the AHA acts as a support to the Exercise Physiologist in the delivery of the twice weekly hour long resistance based exercise program. The first exercise session each week is followed by an hour long education session. The topic covered over the 8 weeks includes Overview of Type 2 Diabetes, Benefits of Exercise in Type 2 Diabetics, Foot care, Eye care, Stress Management and Relaxation Techniques and Healthy Eating. Preceding the 2nd exercise session is goal setting where the clients decide on smart goals to work on for the next week. Through the role as facilitator in this program the AHA scope of practice is extended by participating in a Medicare funded program which requires greater understanding of referral pathways, communication between a range of health care providers and negotiating the complexity of co-ordinating Government funded programs.

Nutrition Risk Screening completed by an Allied Health Assistant

Gilding, T1., & Jackson, C1.

1Nutrition Department, Caulfield Hospital, Alfred Health, Melbourne

Malnutrition is a commonly reported problem amongst hospitalised elderly patients and is associated with higher morbidity and mortality and an increased length in hospital stay. Nutrition risk screening (NRS) is a well recognised method for identifying patients who are nutritionally compromised and directing them to appropriate nutrition interventions. However, a low compliance with NRS has been widely reported where screening has been the responsibility of nursing staff. For example, recent data collected at Caulfield Hospital (CH) indicates completion of nutrition screening in only 8% of patients. The use of an Allied Health Assistant (AHA) to complete NRS has been suggested as an alternative. An AHA was recruited to Nutrition Services at Caulfield Hospital to undertake NRS of all referrals for poor oral intake, weight loss, or possible malnutrition on one Aged Care (AC) ward between February and March 2011. The Mini Nutritional Assessment - Short Form (MNA-SF) was the tool used to screen all 38 patients referred. The percentage completion rate for NRS by the AHA was 100% of all referrals. Of the screens completed, 22 (58%) required dietetic input. Based on risk categorising, 35 patients (92%) required some form of nutritional intervention (moderate and high risk categories): 20 (57%) screened ‘moderate risk’ and were suitable for ongoing monitoring by the AHA and 15 (43%) screened ‘high risk’ and were immediately referred to the unit Dietitian. Through this study, we can demonstrate that a Nutrition Services dedicated AHA can achieve 100% completion of NRS and consequently optimise identification of patients at risk of malnutrition in the sub-acute AC setting. Additional data is available to demonstrate the ongoing supportive contribution an AHA can make to a Nutrition Service for a positive impact on nutritional outcomes.

AHAs Supporting Allied Health Professionals

McKimmie, J., & Lyons, V.

Upper Murray Health & Community Services is a rural multi purpose service situated in north east Victoria. It has a high distribution of aged and chronic disease clients and a shortage of qualified allied health professionals. A community needs based assessment identified a need for increased access to allied health professionals. The feedback from the consumer group informed a model of using allied health assistants to work both directly and indirectly under the supervision of Allied Health Professionals. The allied health assistant’s role supports the HACC Active Service Model to improve the quality of life of clients through their mobility and function within the home and community environment and therefore empowering them to take charge of their own health in order to live independently. As a result of employing AHA’s and under the direction and support of the physiotherapist and a multidisciplinary team of allied health professionals UMHCS has been able to offer a range of home and community based exercise programs such as Cardiac Rehabilitation, Make a Move (mobility), orthopedic clinic, footcare and PAG (Daycare) facilitated exercises. The input of skilled AHA has changed the allocation of Occupational Therapy, enabling more clients to timely assessment and intervention. This has been achieved by AHA supporting equipment research and ordering, client education on equipment use, completing the documentation for some referrals and implementation of client programs.

Allied Health Assistance in Mental Health a new frontier

Meyland, G.S1., & Plate, J2.

1AHA, 2MHN Div1

Introduction: Serious Mental Illness Laughter and Exercise (SMILE) a program trialled within a Sub Regional Health Facility in collaboration with local Community Mental Health Services. The aim, to introduce physical activity into the lives of the participants suffering a serious mental illness in order to promote lifestyle interventions which will improve the individuals’ health and quality of life. Method: SMILE utilises 1 x Mental Health Nurse (MHN), 1 x G2 Physiotherapist (PT), 1 x G3 C IV Allied Health Assistant (AHA) and a range of presenters for education sessions. Each participant is assessed by the multidisciplinary team for appropriateness of inclusion following a health screen of medications, 6 minute walk test, weigh in, waist girth measurement and given an individual exercise program to be followed utilising equipment consisting of free weights, treadmills, exercise bikes, stationary rower and multi station weights machine. Participants were encouraged to attend 16 sessions over 16 weeks at which they received exercise instruction, MHN contact and healthy snack choices at afternoon tea. The education sessions of dietetics, podiatry, relaxation, community gymnasium group exercise class and smoking cessation (Quit) were included over the 16 weeks. Results: 17 participants with a 70% attendance rate over 2 groups provided results of; 11/17 measured decrease in BP, 1/17 decrease in antihypertensive medication, 10/17 decrease in resting heart rate, 15/17 increased result of six minute walk test, 6/17 reduced body weight, 4/17 maintained body weight, 9/17 reduced waist measurement with 3 participants declining to have their waist measured. Of the 6 participants who smoked, 1 ceased, 1 reduced and 3 were contemplating quitting. Conclusion: The Allied Health Assistant plays an important new role in the delivery of a Hospital Admissions Risk Program (HARP) Sub Acute Ambulatory Care (SACS) collaborative offering a multi disciplinary approach to life change for persons with chronic mental illness at risk of developing chronic disease as co-morbidities. Now an


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award winning program “SMILE” has been included as part of the Sub Regional Health Facility’s service delivery.

Embracing Opportunity

Mildren, C.

For the Deniliquin Community Health Service in a small town of less than 8,000 people, the former GSAHS Rural Allied Health Assistant Project has been an opportunity to embrace change and capitalise on workforce innovations to achieve better outcomes for clients and improve the sustainability of services. Australia’s ageing population and fewer students entering Allied Health resulted in a need to rethink the Allied Health workforce in public health. Though the allied health professional team is small, clinicians have received managerial support to engage with each step of the change process. Each step has been addressed from participating in initial workshops, defining the key competencies and preferred pathway for rural and remote positions and achieving the Cert IV in Training and Assessment, through to the development of resources for the Cert IV Allied Health Assistant training package, advising on position descriptions, recruiting and training, and on to supervising, assessing and supporting candidates and trainees. Deniliquin Health service has been able to recruit to two allied health assistant positions, one permanent and one trainee position. Through a process of continuous quality improvement, the assistant roles have been developed and refined to include many non-traditional clinical and group program leadership tasks. Despite vacancies in two thirds of allied health services due to maternity leave and resignation, many key services are sustained through the use of allied health assistants. Embracing the opportunity to be fully involved in both the project and the development of the positions has increased our capacity to provide services to the public without an increase in the Allied Health Professional numbers.

Development of a remote supervision Allied Health Assistant workforce model

Parker, C., Crombie, A., Lindsay, R., & Osteraas, J.

Australia is experiencing workforce shortages across a range of health professions and these shortages are even more acute in rural and remote areas1. Workforce redesign initiatives that increase the efficiency and effectiveness of the available workforce and improve workforce distribution, particularly in under-resourced rural areas, are critical to a sustainable health service system. The aim of this project is to develop, pilot and evaluate an Allied Health Assistant (AHA) service delivery model in two small rural hospitals utilising an innovative remote (geographically) supervision and training model. The project objectives include:

• To appoint to and to train a local worker as an AHA at two small rural health services

• To develop and implement processes, protocols and clinical criteria relevant to the scope of practice of the AHA

• To develop and implement appropriate competency assessment for the agreed skill set required of the AHA

• To develop and implement a model of remote supervision from AHP’s at the two small rural health services to the local AHA’s

• To trial the recently developed Allied Health Professional Supervision/ Nature of Activity Decision Making Matrix

• To evaluate the pilot AHA service delivery model

• To submit a final report outlining the project outcomes and providing recommendations for replicating the model in other rural areas.

Qualitative and quantitative data will be collected and evaluated to determine efficacy of the model. A final report will be submitted to the Department at project completion. The final report will describe the redesign process, impacts and outcomes of the new model, recommendations regarding the use of the Nature of Activity Decision Making Matrix and recommendations for replicating the model in other rural health services.

1 Productivity Commission 2005, Australia’s Health Workforce, Research Report, Canberra

Demonstrating workforce redesign and flexibility

Priestley, L.

This presentation is primarily about AHA working within an Occupational Therapy (OT) department. Two years ago our four assistants were employed by the department but had no direct work role with the therapists or for the department. They were OT assistants in name but had limited understanding of Occupational therapy in practice. Historically, their role was to provide activities throughout the various aged care services associated with Western District Health Service (WDHS). Discussions and negotiations lead to a gradual but significant change for all concerned. We now have champion roles within the department that includes all of our assistants. They continue to provide services to Aged care but have a broader scope of participation and practice within the OT department, and across the organisation. They are receiving regular supervision and professional development opportunities. They are working with OT’s on a daily basis, providing valuable support to staff and clients whilst enjoying new learning opportunities.

Pathways to AHA Employment from a Fitness Professionals Perspective

Sabaliauskas, J.

The role of an Allied Health Assistant (AHA) is designed to support the work of allied health professionals. This AHA role covers workers who provide therapeutic and program related support to allied health professionals. This includes Exercise Suitability Assessment and Programming, Exercise Instruction (both individual and group), Strength and Conditioning and


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Massage Therapy in various settings. In this role, the AHA is required to conduct therapeutic and program related activities under the guidance of an allied health professional and sometimes exercise related activities which the professional is unfamiliar with. The AHA is required to identify client circumstances that need additional input from the allied health professional. Occupational titles for these AHA’s may include Exercise Therapy assistant, Therapy assistant and Physiotherapy assistant. This presentation will include a brief outline of the pathways to an Allied Health Assistant from a Fitness Professionals point of view with reference to Kinect Australia (VICFIT), Registered Training Organisation’s (RTO’s) and registration/accreditation. The presentation will conclude with a brief practical seated/standing group exercise session.

Allied Health Assistants’ Role in Fast-track Orthopaedic Program

Smale, K., & Gross, M.

In 2010, Northeast Health Wangaratta was allocated additional funding to assist in the reduction of the orthopaedic surgery waiting list (hip and knee joint replacements). A fast-track program was subsequently developed to facilitate a reduction in length of stay. This funding enabled additional staff resourcing of interdisciplinary team members including medical, nursing, physiotherapy, occupational therapy and allied health assistants (AHA). Within this team approach, the role of the AHA was to work predominantly with the occupational therapists and physiotherapists to facilitate timely discharge whilst maintaining high levels of patient care. The program goals were met in doubling the patient target throughput within the allocated time frame. The Allied Health Assistants’ role was considered an integral part of the patient management process, providing the patient continuity of care from Pre-admission Clinic, through inpatient therapy, and post discharge physiotherapy. Contributing to the success of this program was the Allied Health Assistants’ specific role in providing a more intensive, continual therapy program. This presentation will outline details of roles undertaken, lessons learnt and future areas for consideration.

Screening for Malnutrition: the role of the Allied Health Assistant

Swan, W., & Kitto, B.

The prevalence of malnutrition in Australian hospitals is estimated to be 30 to 43 percent of admitted patients1. Aged and frail aged patients have even greater risk of becoming malnourished. Malnutrition is directly related to increasing hospital length of stay, treatment costs, infection and complication rates and mortality. Despite the high prevalence of malnutrition in elderly hospitalised patients, the recognition of malnutrition is often extremely poor. Identification and early referral to a Dietitian to address nutrition issues can potentially attenuate a patient’s complications and improve the outcomes associated with malnutrition. Validated malnutrition screening tools have been used in a number of settings to enhance the identification of nutrition risk2. An Allied Health Assistant (AHA) can conduct malnutrition screening; ensure referral to the Dietitian and under dietetic supervision assist in the implementation and review of the nutrition

care plan. At Goulburn Valley Health (GV Health) an Allied Health Assistant (AHA) led malnutrition screening program was implemented in the sub-acute ward where a high proportion of inpatients are elderly. The Malnutrition Screening Tool (MST) was chosen due to ease of completion and high concordance with more detailed nutrition assessment tools. The MST assesses recent weight loss and poor oral intake. The AHA was trained in the use of the MST and the appropriate action plan following completion of the tool; score 0-1, low nutrition risk, re-screen in one week, score >2 = at risk of malnutrition; referral to Dietitian for further advice and assessment. Patients who had already been referred to the dietitian for assessment were not included in the AHA led screening. Over a 10 month period 263 patients were screened for malnutrition. Of these 186 (70%) were deemed at low nutrition risk. The remaining 77 individuals (30%) were at risk of malnutrition and were referred to the Dietitian for assessment. Based on the findings of AHA led malnutrition screening approximately a third of patients in a sub-acute ward at risk of malnutrition may be missed by routine referral methods. Use of an AHA is a cost effective way of identifying patients, who may be at nutrition risk during an inpatient episode.

1Adams NE, Bowie AJ, Simmance N, Murray M, Crowe TC (2008) Recognition by medical and nursing professionals of malnutrition and

risk of malnutrition in elderly hospitalized patients. Nutrition & Dietetics 65(2):144-150.

2Ferguson M, Capra S, Bauer J, Banks M. Development of a valid and reliable malnutrition screening tool for adult acute hospital patients. Nutrition 1999; 15: 458-64.

Advancing AHA’s clinical practice: The development of an AHA Speech Pathology training package

Tasevski, J1., & Beer, E2.

1Allied Health Assistant, 2Clinical Leader of Speech Pathology

The role of the Allied Health Assistant (AHA) is an emerging one and there are significant opportunities to expand the roles of AHA’s in health organisations (Department of Health 2010). The staff of the Speech Pathology Department at an outer metropolitan public health service are committed to expanding AHA’s clinical skills and knowledge in the area of Speech Pathology. AHA’s make a valuable contribution to patient care and with training and skill development for extended roles provides an opportunity to enhance this. The clinicians and AHAs in the Speech Pathology department have developed an AHA Speech Pathology training package in conjunction with the guidelines provided by the Speech Pathology Association of Australia. This package fosters AHA’s knowledge and the skills required to undertake Speech Pathology related tasks, improve patient centred care and maximise the number of patients that can be seen. The competency based approach to the learning package reduces clinical risks associated with AHA’s expanding their traditional role. This paper will outline the development of the Speech Pathology AHA training package, the core clinical components that must be demonstrated by AHA’s to be considered safe to undertake speech pathology tasks; An overview of the outcomes of the initial phase of implementation and the future directions of the project.

Reference:

Department of Health: Allied Health Assistants supervision and delegation framework paper (2010).


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Grade 3 Allied Health Assistant - The Future Workforce

Van Leeuwen, E.

The Grade 3 Allied Health Assistant role at Casey Hospital has evolved from a Council of Australian government funded “Best Care of Older People” project that aimed to minimise functional decline on one general medical ward. On completion of the project the role expanded to include all acute and subacute services and disciplines. This paper will outline the development of this role, explain the differences between the grade 2 and the grade 3 and offer some suggestions for future direction in Allied Health Assistants responsibilities within an Interdisciplinary team. The role of the grade 3 Allied Health Assistant in an Acute and Subacute setting will be discussed, this will then expose beneficial outcomes and challenges of this role but also encourage future development for a Grade 3 role. It will also offer suggestions for expansion of the roles of Allied Health Assistants and future career progression and increased opportunities within workforce developments. I will provide personal perspective as a grade 3 Allied Health Assistant and provide an in depth appraisal of my role. This paper will endeavour to explain an Allied Health Assistants scope of practice and explore, if we as a profession, are equipped to deal with the challenges of an ever changing Health care system.

References:

Van Leeuwen, E. - Grade 3 AHA Casey Hospital Southern Health.

Carlin, J. - Physiotherapy Manager Casey Hospital Southern Health.

Sharing the Load to Double the Service

Walton, M.

Twelve months ago, the waiting time for a dietetic appointment was two months due to increased demand and a lack of locum services to cover periods of leave. While traditionally nutrition assistants have been based in acute settings, having limited involvement with the nutrition care process, there was an opportunity to explore clinical roles not requiring clinical judgement, that could be shared with allied health assistants. A work analysis was conducted, appropriate tasks identified and a training process and resources developed. New procedures for dietetic clinics were developed and the necessary training and support provided. At the same time, the division of general practice supported RESET lifestyle modification program offered an opportunity to deliver group programs for people at risk of Type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. The multidisciplinary team recruited and trained to lead the program included an allied health assistant who is sharing leadership and presentation roles. The capacity of the individual clinical service has more than doubled and allied health assistants report increased work satisfaction. Over 90 clients are engaging with the ongoing weight loss support and training in self management through the lifestyle modification program with six more programs planned this year. It has been an opportunity to explore clinical and group program leadership tasks that can be effectively and efficiently completed by an allied health assistant. Novel, creative and practical use is being made of the workforce innovations available through the Rural Allied Health Assistants project that can be implemented in other disciplines and health services.

The “Active Lorikeets” project

Webb, J., & Ellis, A.

"Active Lorikeets" is a project to provide early intervention for preschool children, requiring speech pathology or occupational therapy. East Gippsland is remote and rural and has a higher proportion of families than the national average that experience social and economic barriers to accessing health services. These factors present service providers with the challenge to pioneer innovative service models to deliver quality, economical, responsible and effective services, within an environment of social barriers, remote locations and finite resources. In response to identified gaps, and high demands for allied health services, the program aims to maximize access by early screening and group service delivery. The Active Lorikeet project is designed to do just that. The project is comprised of two phases. The first is to provide kinder screenings of speech and language, fine and gross motor skills at kindergartens in East Gippsland. It also includes the development of a care plan in collaboration with the parents/caregivers of those children identified as experiencing difficulty in one or more developmental domains. The second phase is to deliver a structured multidisciplinary “Preschool Skills Group” The groups are facilitated by trained allied health assistants under the supervision of both a speech pathologist and occupational therapist. Utilising allied health assistants is a cost effective and innovative use of resources. It also builds the capacity of the workforce in this region through the providing specialist training in the early intervention field, increasing the scope of practice of allied health assistants. The groups aim to develop the skills of both parents/caregivers and children who are developmentally vulnerable. The group provides intervention through educational play, structured group activities, language and physical development activities. Parents actively participate in group activities. Using low cost and easily accessible resources, we have developed activities that the parents can replicate at home to assist in their child’s progress. This model has the potential to reduce waiting lists for both Occupational Therapy and Speech Pathology services in this region. This ensures those children of highest priority are identified and obtain the services required.

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