The Dr. G.T. Connolly Rehabilitation Unit at Mt. Alexander Hospital is an accredited service offering a wide range of services to people suffering from the effects of surgery, stroke, accident or general debilitation.
The unit is named in honour of Dr. G.T. Connolly who pioneered rehabilitation for the aged during the 1970’s when he was a medical officer at Mt. Alexander Hospital.
In an individually developed program ranging from a period of two weeks and anywhere up to twelve months on an outpatient basis, rehabilitation aims to improve the physical and mental function of the client to the highest possible level in order to gain optimum independence in living and working.
The rehabilitation program consists of thorough assessment, treatment planning and goal setting to achieve aims and objectives of client, families and team members. Reassessment and goal revision are constant throughout the Rehabilitation program. A planned discharge is part of this process.
THE REHABILITATION TEAM
Mt. Alexander Hospital’s Rehabilitation Team includes one specialist medical officer, nursing staff, welfare staff, physiotherapists, occupational therapists, speech pathologists, dietitians, pharmacists and podiatrists.
At bi weekly meetings the team reviews client progress and recommends treatment plan adjustments with their clients. |
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Medical Staff
Our medical team has specialists who are available to talk with clients and their families or carers with regard to overall management and goals of the Rehabilitation program. Consultants in other medical specialities may also be called on to evaluate and treat clients. |
Nursing Staff
The unit is staffed by nurses who are aware of the need to maintain and encourage the independence of clients in their care. They work closely with other members of the team in assessing, planning, treatment and discharge planning. Nurses have extensive expertise in Rehabilitation Nursing. |
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Nutrition
A nutritional assessment is provided to ensure that every patient meets their dietary requirements. Nutritional risks will be determined and an appropriate support service established for each individual. |
Occupational Therapy
Occupational Therapy provides clients with the opportunities and strategies to develop skills that will add to their quality of life on discharge from rehabilitation. Depending on the individual’s needs, the therapists will address personal care skills, domestic management, driving skills, recreational interests and return to work duties. The therapists also offer advice on modifications to the home and work environment as well as appropriate aids and equipment. |
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Pharmacy
In order to encourage compliance with good drug therapy at home, the pharmacy runs a self-medication program for clients in the Rehabilitation Unit.
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Physiotherapy
The physiotherapist works with the client to improve strength, flexibility, balance, coordination, movement control and endurance. Gait training, developing new skills and pain relief are also areas addressed. Safe mobility and assessment and provision of gait aids are addressed during a client’s rehabilitation program. |
Podiatry
Clients admitted to the Rehabilitation Unit will be assessed by the podiatrist if referred and treatment provided if required.
Speech Pathology
The Speech Pathologist assesses and manages disorders of speech, hearing and swallowing. Therapy involves restoring communication skills to as near normal as possible, or introducing augmentative or compensatory methods of communication. |
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Rehabilitation Outpatient Services
If required, rehabilitation is continued on an outpatient basis through the Community Rehabilitation Centre at Mt. Alexander Hospital. Referral to this service is discussed as part of the discharge plan, to provide post-discharge support.
For services available, see Community Services Section.
Welfare
The role of the Welfare Department is to assess the physical, psychological and functional needs of the client (including advocacy and financial issues) and to assist in selecting care options. Welfare staff also coordinate community services on discharge.
REFERRAL PROCESS
Clients have the right to choose where their rehabilitation takes place regardless of which health facility the initial treatment takes place.
An advantage of receiving rehabilitation close to home is that your family and friends can visit more often and you will receive professional and individually tailored treatment.
Clients may be referred by their Surgeon, General Practitioner or may contact the Welfare Department in person for further information. Referral forms and information may be obtained from the Welfare Department.
CONTACT DETAILS
- Welfare Department:
Ph: (03) 5471 1468
Fax: (03) 5471 1576
Email: welfare@mtalexhosp.vic.gov.au
Mt. Alexander Hospital, P.O. Box 50, Castlemaine Vic. 3450
