352 Integrated care programme for older persons—community specialist teams: evaluating the patient experiences

Abstract

Abstract Background Following a successful Slaintecare pilot project (2019–2021) two teams were established in Community Healthcare Networks (CHN) 4&5 and CHN 6&7. The aim of our service is to provide a Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment (CGA) to older people. Service user experience/feedback are critically important to ensure that we are meeting their needs. We also looked to compare the results against previous patient experience survey undertaken in 2021. Methods The survey was designed by the multidisciplinary team, consisting of 15 closed/3 open questions. A Likert scale was utilised for closed questions and thematic analysis for open questions. 208 service users who attended our teams and have received a CGA from January 2023 to April 2023 were invited to participate in a postal survey. All participants received a covering letter, questionnaire and a stamped address envelope to return their completed surveys. Results There was a 35% response rate (73/208). 89% were aged ≥75. 49% of participants completed the survey themselves, 51% required assistance. 66% have had 2 or more interactions with the teams. Vast majority or those who responded highlighted the importance of having their care at home or at centres close to home. 97% agreed/strongly agreed that they were satisfied with the service. 99% felt they were treated with dignity/respect and had confidence in the service. 96% felt that when they had an important question they got an answer that they could understand. 94% reported their carers had the opportunity to discuss concerns. Conclusion Service users had an overwhelmingly positive experience when they engaged with both our teams. CGA assessment and team interventions in the home and local healthcare settings was seen as been beneficial The importance of having time to engage with members of the team, not feeling rushed was also a recurring theme.