Effective patient care requires a collaborative work among the health care professionals. Dr. Lam's speech on collaboration among health care professionals in primary health care believed that a joint care plan would have better outcomes than separate single approach in health care delivery. Indeed, there should be a seamless service that all levels of staff have the responsibility to maintain a high standard of care together. The finding from the survey study shows that there is still a discrepancy of expectation of care between trained nurse and health care worker. The difference would certainly affect the outcome of care on the ward. Therefore, improved communication between the trained staff and health care assistant is essential.
Over the years, strong evidence shows that elderly service has much been improved. For example, community geriatric outreach service and hotline service etc were developed. In the present issue, two projects were focused on the post discharge follow up and drug compliance in elderly clients. They have successfully demonstrated that continuous monitoring of the well beings of the elderly client is important to maintain the status quo in the community. This additional service has certainly reduced the unnecessary admission and crisis intervention. It is not only to help the elderly clients stay longer in community but also enhance the accountability in nursing professional beyond the hospital setting.
Finally, the College has given feedback on the consultation paper for medical reform. Members are welcome to forward their viewpoints to the College. The deadline for submission of paper for the writing competition is on 29th September, 2001. Don't miss the opportunity to share your findings and work experience with us. Thank you.
Gemma Wong
Editor-in-Chief