The Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) service is making a significant difference for local people by proactively managing IBD cases in the community through collaboration with services under Peninsula Health’s At Home initiative.
IBD is a collective umbrella term for Ulcerative Colitis and Crohn’s Disease that can have a major impact on a person’s life and cause numerous trips to hospital. Peninsula Health is reshaping the landscape of IBD management for patients across Frankston and the Mornington Peninsula, under the innovative At Home service model.
The IBD service has a proactive approach with patients able to manage their condition outside the need for hospital. The approach has resulted in an increase in planned infusion treatments to manage IBD from 304 patients in 20/21 to a forecast of 509 patients in 23/24 – a 61% increase in 2024. This growth demonstrates that this preventative approach helps keep patients healthy and at home. It shows people can successfully manage their condition with greater education, awareness and feedback mechanisms.
At Home is the leading initiative that is providing care in the home as well as preventive management to specific diseases/conditions with the aim to control symptoms and reduce the need for hospital admission. A significant aspect of the IBD service transformation has involved assisting patients in maintaining wellness and staying at home as much as possible throughout their care journey through symptom management and proactive treatment.
A specialised, multidisciplinary team that includes Gastroenterology Consultants, Clinical Nurse Consultants, an IBD Dietitian, and an IBD Pharmacist, ensures personalised care is tailored to each patient’s needs
Other key enhancements of the IBD service are:
Expanded Service Reach: People across Frankston and the Mornington Peninsula now have access to comprehensive IBD care within their local community, eliminating the need for extensive travel for treatment and consultations ongoing.
Streamlined access with Telehealth: Telehealth and video clinics provide seamless access to the entire IBD team, minimising hospital visits and improving the patient experience.
24/7 Support: Patients can access the IBD Nurse Helpline email for support, addressing concerns ranging from flare-ups and pain management to emotional support, ensuring continuous care beyond scheduled appointments. Emails are monitored around the clock and responded to within 24-48hrs based on a triage system.
Personalised Care Approach: Peninsula Health’s IBD team invests in understanding the unique journey and individual needs of each patient, fostering a supportive environment, and delivering tailored care plans.
Future expansion plans will aim to introduce a nurse-led clinic, promising extended consultation times for more in-depth discussions with patients.
With Peninsula Health’s At Home initiative, people are empowered to navigate their IBD journey with confidence and comfort, from the convenience of their own homes.
For further information, please contact IBDNurse@phcn.vic.gov.au