Authors (including presenting author) :
Lau JSK(1), SF Li(1), CC Chung(1), Man MY(1), Leung CP(1), Wan BKA(1), Mok KL(1), Yim E(2), Cheung JWM(3), Ng CLK(3), Wong SML(3), Kan PG(1), Siu AYC(1)
Affiliation :
1. Accident and Emergency Department, Ruttonjee Hospital (RTSKH) 2. Medical Social Work Department, Ruttonjee Hospital 3. Methodist Centre, Operator for Wan Chai District Health Centre Express
Introduction :
A local survey demonstrated the prevalence of diabetes and hypertension among A&E patients aged less than 65 were 8.5% and 59.8% respectively. Their disease optimization may be suboptimal due to social constraints. Since this group is relatively young, the cumulative effect resulting from poor control will be disastrous not only to them but also to the healthcare system. The initiative of District Health Centre (DHC) is to foster the development of prevention-focused primary healthcare. Key services include health promotion/education, risk factors assessment and chronic disease management. Presently, RH A&E is the only A&E in HK with formal linkage with DHC.
Objectives :
First of its kind, the A&E of RTKSH and Wan Chai DHC Express develop a pilot project to enhance post-disposal community support. Patients attending RTKSH A&E aged less than 65 suffer from or with risk of hypertension or diabetes will be referred to Wan Chai DHC Express for stratification and prevention care. Eligible patients will be benefited by early close-monitoring/empowerment and reduction of complications. In the long run, the need to attend A&E for emergency service due to chronic illness is reduced.
Methodology :
The collaboration model was first discussed and proposed between RTSKH A&E and Wan Chai DHC Express with the facilitation of RTKSH Medical Social Work Department. Patients aged less than 65 attending RTSKH A&E will be targeted. They are recruited if they suffer from or at risk of hypertension or diabetes; or have psychosocial needs. Eligible patients living or working in Wan Chai are referred to Wan Chai DHC Express after medical social worker's assessment.
Result & Outcome :
The pilot project will be launched in late 2022 and the number of beneficiaries and their feedback will be evaluated in the coming twelve months. The expected outcomes are a decrease in A&E attendance and improved disease control related to hypertension, diabetes and psychosocial needs. Furthermore, illnesses can be positively coped with from the enhanced social/community support, thereby raising patient satisfaction.
