Rapid Occupational Therapy as a pathway to Hospital Avoidance in Older Adults
Tracks
Healthy ageing and positive ageing (Older Persons)
Home safety (Older Persons)
Home-based aged care and community care (Older Persons)
| Tuesday, June 23, 2026 |
| 2:05 PM - 2:30 PM |
| Great Hall 3 |
Speaker
Maddison Goodwin
Director Of Occupational Therapy
Metro North Community And Oral Health, Queensland Health
Rapid Occupational Therapy as a pathway to Hospital Avoidance in Older Adults
Presentation summary
Introduction/Background:
The Healthy Ageing Assessment and Rehabilitation Team (HAART) was developed to meet the needs of older adults in the community. A key innovation is the Rapid Occupational Therapist (OT) role, which enables timely assessment and intervention for older people presenting to Queensland Health Satellite Health Centres, or via direct general practitioner and community referrals.
Method/Implementation:
The Rapid OT assesses clients either immediately or within 24–48 hours, focusing on frailty, home safety, and functional ability. Over 600 clients have been screened from Minor Injuries, with more than 1500 referred to HAART for multidisciplinary interventions. The Rapid OT provides immediate support including home safety assessments, equipment provision, education, and environmental modifications—allowing clients to remain safely at home, avoiding hospital and reducing pressure on emergency departments.
Discussion/Outcomes:
The service has demonstrated strong outcomes in hospital avoidance, equity, and consumer satisfaction. Clients experienced a 50% reduction in emergency department presentations within three months post-discharge. Engagement with Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander clients exceeds local population averages, highlighting culturally responsive care. One client shared: “You walked up to me and offered help—no appointments, no waiting. You changed my life in less than 24 hours.”
Conclusion:
Streamlined referrals and collaborative care planning have improved access and responsiveness. The Rapid OT model offers a scalable, community-based solution that supports ageing in place and aligns with strategic health priorities.
The Healthy Ageing Assessment and Rehabilitation Team (HAART) was developed to meet the needs of older adults in the community. A key innovation is the Rapid Occupational Therapist (OT) role, which enables timely assessment and intervention for older people presenting to Queensland Health Satellite Health Centres, or via direct general practitioner and community referrals.
Method/Implementation:
The Rapid OT assesses clients either immediately or within 24–48 hours, focusing on frailty, home safety, and functional ability. Over 600 clients have been screened from Minor Injuries, with more than 1500 referred to HAART for multidisciplinary interventions. The Rapid OT provides immediate support including home safety assessments, equipment provision, education, and environmental modifications—allowing clients to remain safely at home, avoiding hospital and reducing pressure on emergency departments.
Discussion/Outcomes:
The service has demonstrated strong outcomes in hospital avoidance, equity, and consumer satisfaction. Clients experienced a 50% reduction in emergency department presentations within three months post-discharge. Engagement with Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander clients exceeds local population averages, highlighting culturally responsive care. One client shared: “You walked up to me and offered help—no appointments, no waiting. You changed my life in less than 24 hours.”
Conclusion:
Streamlined referrals and collaborative care planning have improved access and responsiveness. The Rapid OT model offers a scalable, community-based solution that supports ageing in place and aligns with strategic health priorities.
Biography
Zara Mansell is an Advanced Occupational Therapist with the Healthy Ageing and Assessment Rehabilitation Team (HAART). Her experience spans inpatient and community rehabilitation, supporting adults throughout the full continuum of care. Zara is passionate client-centred care and innovative models of practice that advance both the OT profession and patient outcomes.
