Winter, as well as other times of high demand, place enormous pressure on the health system with increased numbers of people requiring hospital care. A coordinated approach is needed to managing this pressure with all health stakeholders working together to ensure that patients continue to have access to high quality, timely care.
In response to feedback from NSW clinicians and managers during 2015 winter planning discussions, the Whole of Health Program (WOHP) team hosted a Demand Escalation Forum on the 4th February. The aim of the forum was to discuss a consistent, coordinated approach among local health districts (LHDs) and partners (such as NSW Ambulance) to managing times of peak demand and to support staff in developing a centrally developed, locally appropriate demand escalation plan.
Presentation by Kim Clarke, WOHP Lead, South Western Sydney LHD
Presentation by Damian Miners, Senior Systems Support Specialist, Patient Flow Portal - Ministry of Health
Presentation by Louise Kershaw, WOHP Panel Expert
Escalation tipping points data sheet
Presentation by Jo Campbell, WOHP Lead, Port Macquarie Base Hospital
Presentation by Melinda Pascoe, Senior Systems Support Specialist, Patient Flow Portal and Principal Policy Advisor - Surgery, MOH
Presentation by Jenny Carter, WOHP Lead, Hunter New England