Mental Health of Older People - Community Service

Programme Areas

Mental health

Programme Type

Non-acute specialist mental health community services

Regions

South Canterbury

Age Groups

Older adult / Kaumātua

Referral Types

Self referral, GP, DHB clinical services

Referral Process

The patient can be referred by their GP, other Doctors within the hospital, rest home managers, NGO's, family or self referral. Patients or their family can self refer by calling 0800 277 997.

Description

The Psychogeriatric Nurse is the initial point of contact.  Following an initial triage of referrals, arrangements are made for the assessment process at a suitable venue that is most convenient for the patient and family.

Following an initial comprehensive assessment, a treatment plan is generated to determine the best next step to assist the older person and family.  Treatment plans can range in the following manner:

• Arranging further appropriate investigations,
• Advice / recommendations to the patient and/or referrer about further management,
• Arranging an outpatient appointment with the Consultant Psychogeriatrician,
• Referral on to the Needs Assessment Service and / or support services in the community e.g. Alzheimer’s South Canterbury
• Support the initiation of case management where the patient receives ongoing follow up.