Department of Health

The way in which care is delivered in acute care services, especially emergency departments, has changed dramatically over the past decade.

Different service models and models of care have been developed to meet the needs of specific cohorts of patients within existing facilities. Changes to service models aim to reduce waits, improve outcomes and enhance the consumer experience.

Some models (such as care coordination) focus on minimising avoidable emergency department presentations. Co-located general practitioner (GP) services provide alternatives to inpatient admission. Other models reduce the length of stay in hospital (fast track) and prevent unplanned readmissions.

Integrating care across primary and secondary care remains a key focus.

Reviewed 05 October 2015

Health.vic

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