Physio honoured for streamlining services

A Palmerston North physiotherapist has been nationally recognised for making patient care more convenient.

Emma Lett, who works at Palmerston North Hospital, is the second person to receive the Open for Leadership award.

Lett won for her part in helping streamline access to equipment for physiotherapy patients.

The new system involves occupational therapy and physiotherapy staff sharing resources.

Now physios can issue equipment such as shower stools and toilet frames, and occupational therapists can issue basic walking frames without having to first seek approval from the other discipline.

Lett said the project meant patients needing the equipment can get it quicker.

’’Now you can get it all in one go, it has reduced wait times and helped keep a lot of people safer.’’

Lett said there had been a positive reaction from patients.

‘‘They thought it was wonderful.’’

The project took about six months of meetings and discussions before it got off the ground.

Lett was given her award by Associate Minister of Health Peter Dunne during a presentation at the hospital.

Dunne said her work was an example of how health professionals could show innovation.

Patients could now get the help they need in a fast, efficient way, he said.

Dunne said it may not sound like a big deal but it was important to cut down on bureaucracy.

‘‘It has made the experience better for all involved.’’

Open for Leadership awards are co-ordinated by the Health Quality and Safety Commission to recognise the work of emerging healthcare leaders who have made a difference to patient care.