Based on the principles of partnering and collaboration, this clinical practice improvement project was established to address issues related to the high readmission rates of Aboriginal patients with Acute Coronary Syndrome. Presently, 61.5 per cent of Aboriginal patients with Acute Coronary Syndrome were re-admitted to hospital within 28 days of discharge, more than double the rate for non-Aboriginal patients.
To address this disparity, the project incorporated strategies that empowered clients in their own health care, such as education, lifestyle modifications, treatment and self-management.
The results of the initiative showed a 4.5 per cent reduction in readmission rates and an increase in patients reporting an improvement in satisfaction in their treatment and confidence in how their condition was being managed.
