A new model of triage in an aged persons mental health service.
OBJECTIVE
To describe a new model of triage in an aged persons mental health service.


METHODS
The process of developing the new model is described and compared with the previous system.


RESULTS
The outcomes reveal an increase in the contacts and accepted referrals. However, the increase in contacts (54.8%) is proportionately much higher than the increase in accepted referrals (16%).


CONCLUSIONS
The outcomes suggest that the new model is working with improved accessibility (increased contacts) and effective triage (proportionately smaller increase in accepted referrals). Triage should not be a static model but needs ongoing development to be effective and responsive.
George
Kuruvilla
K
Aged Persons Mental Health, Eastern Health, Vic., Australia. kuruvilla.george@peterjames.org.au
MacDonald
Gail
G
D000368:Aged; D006299:Health Services for the Aged / Q000458:organization & administration* / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D006801:Humans; D008605:Mental Health Services / Q000458:organization & administration* / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D012017:Referral and Consultation; D012621:Seasons; D014218:Triage / Q000458:organization & administration* / Q000706:statistics & numerical data