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Inconsistent physio information

Posted By plutokf73

"Inconsistent physio information"

About: Albany Health Campus / Physiotherapy

(as a relative),

I recently had a family member admitted to the Albany Hospital after having a knee replacement. Sadly I think that the physiotherapy department is lacking any direction for the patient. Even with good intentions, it seems each young physio has a different idea on what rehab is needed and how to go about it. So I feel everyday exercise is very casual and not very consistent. 

In my opinion, the department needs senior experienced physios who assess the patients and their needs, make a plan, and instruct the junior staff members on what needs to be done - as it is at the moment I feel it is a 'free for all'. When I queried the situation with the doctor they said the physios all have their own agenda and are endeavouring to make their own mark. I felt that is not a very encouraging comment from a doctor. 
The staff were pleasant and caring, however, I think the system needs to change. 
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Responses

Response from Joanne Clark, Allied Health Manager, WACHS Great Southern 4 years ago
We are preparing to make a change
Joanne Clark
Allied Health Manager,
WACHS Great Southern

Submitted on 7/11/2019 at 1:36 PM
Published on Care Opinion at 1:47 PM

picture of Joanne Clark

Dear plutokf73,

My sincerest apologies you have had a poor experience with the physiotherapy service at Albany Health Campus. All our current permanent physiotherapists each have two years or more of experience. Our senior physiotherapist, who provides governance and oversight, has been working in the industry in excess of 10 years and provides weekly professional development training to ensure all physiotherapists keep up to date with clinical competencies, so I am saddened to hear you have had a bad experience.

As a regional hub we do support fourth year students from core universities with training and development and the physiotherapist governing the ward, in this case, Surgical Ward provides support and direction for the students. Your feedback has given us an opportunity for reflection and in response, I will ensure all physiotherapists and supervisors providing clinical oversight have a refresher training in providing case management for clients who have had a total knee replacement at Albany Health Campus - to support more comprehensive management in future.

I would value the opportunity to speak with you directly about your family member’s experience. You can contact me 9892 2464 or email Joanne.Clark@health.wa.gov.au

Thank you for providing this feedback on Patient Opinion and thank you also for acknowledging that the staff were pleasant and caring.

Kind regards

Joanne Clark

Allied Health Manager, Albany Health Campus

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Response from Jade Allen, A/Allied Health Manager, Allied Health, WA Country Health Service (WACHS) 4 years ago
Jade Allen
A/Allied Health Manager, Allied Health,
WA Country Health Service (WACHS)

Senior Physiotherapist

Submitted on 30/12/2019 at 12:58 PM
Published on Care Opinion at 1:38 PM

Dear plutokf73,

In response and follow-up to your feedback all of our team have now undertaken refresher training in providing case management for clients. Furthermore, all new staff members and students will be orientated to the protocol so information will be consistent.

Thank you again for your feedback and the opportunity it has given us to improve our service.

Kind regards

Jade Allen

Senior Physiotherapist, Albany Health Campus

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