Comox Valley seniors in long-term care (LTC) homes now have improved access to healthcare, thanks to an expanded service model provided by Island Health nurse practitioners (NPs).
The new model allows NPs to support Comox Valley seniors waiting for admission to LTC and address their health care needs after they are admitted, says Dr. Sand Russell-Atkinson, physician lead for long-term care in the North Island.
“This is exciting progress. By creating these new specialized NP positions, dedicated to the care of seniors, we’re really having a big impact and improving the overall experience for residents of long-term care,” she said.
This innovative new approach was created in collaboration between Island Health, Comox Valley LTC homes, and the Comox Valley Division of Family Practice Long Term Care Initiative after the group identified the unique needs of seniors living in the Comox Valley.
These included barriers faced by individuals without a primary care provider in accessing long-term care.
“I’ve been working in LTC for 20 years and I know how complex and challenging the process is for admitting seniors. This is a big step toward improving that experience for residents and families,” said Dr. Russell-Atkinson.
All nurse practitioners work as registered nurses for at least two years, later completing a master’s degree or higher education in nursing that includes integrated medical sciences and then fulfilling a licensing process. Here in British Columbia, NPs have among the broadest scope of practice in the country. They are licensed to:
- assess including ordering tests and interpreting test results;
- diagnose and treat diseases and conditions by prescribing medication and other therapies;
- consult with and refer patients to other health care providers such as specialists; and
- monitor treatment plans to ensure they are effective.
Three specialized NPs provide healthcare at all five LTC homes in the region. By improving access to healthcare in long-term care, NPs like Melissa Gagnon are also helping to make the overall health care system more sustainable.
“I’ve learned so much working with the lead physician and care team, and I love the collaboration with residents, staff and families,” Gagnon said.
Fellow nurse practitioner Jennifer DeMedeiros agrees, explaining how NPs, who can work independently and as part of a broader care team, are supporting fellow caregivers while enhancing the availability of health care services for Comox Valley seniors.
“We take the pressure off physicians who often cannot follow patients once they are admitted to long-term care,” she said. “By addressing the health care needs of incoming and current residents, we’re helping to admit them faster and keep them out of the hospital.”
The feedback from residents and families has been positive. “Residents and their families benefit when we can get to know them, and I can really learn about a resident and their family and get a sense of them as a person,” said DeMedeiros.
Barbara Freeze, a long-term care resident, is grateful for the health care she receives from an Island Health NP.
“Having a nurse practitioner as part of my care team has been a great experience. I feel well supported in my health care journey and appreciate the care she provides,” said Freeze.
Island Health is looking at expanding the new service model to other areas of the region.
“I’m excited to see how other teams pick up this model of care and modify it community by community to create something that fits local needs,” said Dr. Russell-Atkinson.
The move to embed NPs in Comox Valley long-term care homes is complemented by the use of innovation to support LTC residents. Island Health recently announced that LTC residents across the region are receiving more timely access to wound care via virtual appointments with nurses specializing in skin, wound, ostomy, and continence care (NSWOC).