NDIS training held at Broadmeadows

Northern Health has partnered with the Summer Foundation to up skill our staff in how we work with the NDIS (National Disability Insurance Scheme).

After completing a gap analysis of what we need to do to successfully manage the interface between NDIS and the health service, a steering committee was established to identify and develop systems required to meet the relevant legislative and regulatory frameworks under the NDIS.

“We are training our staff health service-wide on this complex issue. We have some very long stayers, either due to the complexity of the system or due to lack of training on how to move things along. This training is for staff both in acute and sub acute services,” explained Ingrid Ioannidis, Clinical Leader, Social Work Continuing Care.

The training looks at patient’s health journey and how to get started on the NDIS journey, which will enable a shorter hospital stay and a better outcome for patients. This program, funded by Department of Health, is delivered by the Summer Foundation, who are experts in keeping young people out of nursing homes.

“Besides the six-hour one-day training which 80 of our staff have already attended, the training also includes videos and gives a basic overview of the program. There is also specific training for social workers and occupational therapists, which will be around accessing housing,” Ingrid explained.

“That is a really complex part of the NDIS program. We are seeing patient stay in the hospital for a year unfortunately. If patients need accommodation, their journey is a long one. Also, there will be train the trainer module, which will keep the program sustainable in the future,” she added.

Twenty three hospitals are participating in this program and Northern Health staff already had a day of sharing resources, with the aim to put together the most evidence-based documents.

“These templates and policies are now completed and they will be integrated into the training. The goal is to have a consistent approach, clear escalation pathway, clear roles and responsibilities and polices,” she explained.

To watch the Summer Foundation videos on understanding the NDIS, click here.