The event which was hosted in Kilkenny yesterday was titled “Enhancing Integrated Care in Chronic Disease Management”
More than 100 GP practices in the South East were represented with the aim to unite individuals enhancing community health and well-being, promoting seamless, coordinated care in primary and specialist settings for chronic disease management
The aim of the Study Day was to bring together those who are making a lasting impact on health and well-being in communities. The gathering enhanced work under way on shaping the future of chronic disease management, in encouraging seamless, co-ordinated care across primary and specialist settings.
One of the messages imparted in the opening address at the Study Day by Judy Ryan (Director, HSE’s Nursing, Midwifery, Planning and Development Unit/South East) was not to ever underestimate the impact a Practice Nurse has on a patient’s journey.
Sandra McCarthy, the HSE’s Director of Nursing/Nurse Lead Integrated Care Programme for Chronic Disease was also among the speakers. She reiterated how the HSE’s Enhanced Community Care programme (ECC), of which the Chronic Disease Management (CDM) programme is a main plank, aims to support General Practice to manage the vast majority of CDM patients in primary care for their routine care.
In tandem, integrated care teams provide episodic care and specialist supports at ambulatory care hubs. The underlying principles of the Sláintecare strategy – right care, right place, right time – sees GP nurses playing a pivotal role in delivering the structured Chronic Disease Management programme in general practice.
Speaking at the Study Day, Liz Carroll (Professional Development Co-ordinator/GP Nurses, HSE/South East Community Healthcare) of the organisation team said:
“The HSE is delighted that so many GP nurses took time out of their busy practices to join us. Their commitment to advancing patient care and enhancing their skills in this vital area is truly commendable.”
“We were also pleased to welcome presenters from integrated care, the HSE/Caredoc’s Supporting Multi-morbidity self-care through Integration, Learning and E-Health (SMILE) service and GP Nurses themselves who are experts in their respective fields. Educational opportunities have a crucial role in fostering collaboration within our interdisciplinary care teams and promoting a culture of shared expertise and innovation.”
