A new, innovative online system is connecting health care providers and acute care services to support patients in south west Sydney to navigate the health system.
HealthPathways SWS, launched by South Western Sydney Local Health District (SWSLHD) this week, is an online portal that provides a roadmap for clinicians on how they transfer care between services, ensuring that patients receive the right care at the right place at the right time.
SWSLHD chief executive Amanda Larkin said the program, which is a joint collaboration between the District and South Western Sydney Primary Health Network (SWSPHN), is an exciting development for the region because it enables the key partners involved in delivering care in our community to work as one.
“South west Sydney is a region of significant diversity, with six hospitals, urban and rural communities and incorporating people from many different cultural backgrounds,” Ms Larkin said.
“Such a large and complex population can make navigating through the health system challenging.
“HealthPathways builds on the strong work already established in integrating primary and hospital care services in the region and in enhancing patient care coordination,” she said.
SWSLHD program coordinator Ben Neville said the program, which was originally developed in New Zealand and now covers large parts of Australia, has already seen great success in other regions.
“HealthPathways has helped reduce the need for follow up appointments, decreased emergency attendances and improved service capacity,” Mr Neville said.
“The program was designed for general practitioners to be used during patient consultations but is available for use by any health professional in south west Sydney.’’
Mr Neville also said the site has now has more than 160 pathways, covering a range of medical, developmental and public health presentations.
For more information visit the health pathways website here.
