Data analysis on high need patients with pre-emergency department visits and admission find that long term planning for end stages of condition were not in place. Crucial discussion with the patient had not occurred by Primary Care Providers. Preventive management would include functional assessment every 6 months or sooner, preplanning and comprehensive management by the nurse practitioner. The Comprehensive Model of Care may reduce non-urgent ED visits, improve adherence and patient/family satisfaction
We believe in periodical functional tests as a tool for more appropriate and effective intervention through specialized diagnostics.
We think that functional tests should be instrumental, un-invasive, painless, quick and simple to apply by paramedical operators. The unit cost is definitely a key aspect. We are presently working to demonstrate that periodical functional tests on senior compensated citizens besides providing frailty/pre-frailty indications, might result in a more effective healthcare with positive economical impact on global healthcare. The periodaical encounter might be furthermore used as an opportunity to foster healthier lifestyle (physical activity, nutrition) as well as the adoption of measures to reduce environmental home risk factors.
The involvement of General Practitioners is crucial.
What are "non-urgent ED visits " ? This should be specified first ,.
I agree with Michele G that involvement of primary care general practitioners is crucial but regretably their knowledge in basic geriatrics is limited,