Implementing a stroke rehabilitation area: the first six months
Hanger, H.Carl.
New Zealand Medical Journal 115(1158): U110
2002
ISSN/ISBN: 0028-8446 PMID: 12362185 Document Number: 548597
Aims: To describe the development of a stroke rehabilitation area (SRA) for the elderly. Methods: Key steps in establishing the SRA are outlined. Using a 'before and after' study design, outcomes, including length of stay (LOS) in hospital and discharge domicile, were measured. Results: Difficulties in changing service delivery within a large organisation are outlined. Median LOS in hospital was reduced significantly by 8.0 days, without adversely affecting discharge domicile. Conclusions: We have shown that implementing a SRA in a New Zealand health setting is feasible and can significantly reduce LOS.