Comprehensive health assessments during de-institutionalization: an observational study

Area of Science:

• Health outcomes for vulnerable populations
• Transition of care models
• General practice and disability support

Background:

• Individuals with intellectual disability (ID) face health vulnerabilities during the transition from institutional to community care.
• General practitioners (GPs) may lack specific training to address the unique health needs of this population.
• Designed health reviews can support individuals with ID and their GPs during this critical transition phase.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effectiveness of the Comprehensive Health Assessment Program (CHAP) health review.
• To assess the health status and needs of adults with ID transitioning from institutional care.
• To evaluate the role of CHAP in supporting general practitioners (GPs) in community care settings.

Main Methods:

• A specially designed health review, the CHAP health review, was implemented.
• The study involved 25 adult residents transitioning out of the last institution for people with ID in Tasmania.
• Reviews were conducted by the residents' general practitioners (GPs).

Main Results:

• CHAP reviews identified numerous health conditions and prompted health promotion.
• Key findings included high rates of abnormal Body Mass Index (19/23) and skin abnormalities (17/23).
• Significant numbers required immunizations (13/23) and referrals to various specialists (22 total), including audiology, dentistry, and mental health services.

Conclusions:

• The CHAP health review proved effective in identifying health issues among people with ID.
• The review facilitated the management of health conditions during the transition to community living.
• CHAP supports individuals with ID and their GPs in navigating community-based healthcare.