AN INNOVATIVE approach to supporting new doctors, and enhancing patient care, has been successfully running in Hervey Bay Hospital for over a year with remarkable results. 

The ConeX Model of Care has been a beacon of hope for new junior doctors, addressing workforce challenges, and delivering significant improvements in patient care. 

Dr Matthys Kleynhans, Clinical Director for Hervey Bay Hospital recognises the importance of this innovative approach, and its role in delivering a more holistic approach to patient care and satisfaction.

“New doctors entering the Australian healthcare system are often unfamiliar with the programs, services and post-discharge support that is available outside the hospital. International medical graduates and junior doctors entering our region were often unaware of the processes, pathways and systems available to support the safe discharge of patient,” he said. 

“ConeX brings an experienced Clinical Nurse Consultant to work alongside the acute medical team to provide expert advice and recommendations to support admission and discharge, connect timely clinical care and fast-track referrals,” Dr Kleynhans said. 

Medical Intern Spinghar Yonus said when he started at WBHHS the program was instrumental in assisting him to settle in. 

“Having a nurse on board with so much experience and knowledge of the region and hospital systems meant everything was actioned quickly and efficiently,” he said. 

“Being supported in this way allowed us to offer better patient care despite experiencing staffing challenges.” 

Data from the Health Informatics Unit (HIU) Fraser Coast Review in March 2023 highlighted the positive effects of the ConeX Model of Care, including:

• Education and support for doctors on processes.
• Introduction of alternative models of care and pathways (straight to the community rather than admission).
• Performance of other clinical activities to support safe patient care.
• Since implementing the in mid-August 2022 the Average Length of Stay (ALOS) has reduced from 6.08 days down to 4.37 day which is below the state average.

“The ConeX model is a bespoke solution to our own workforce challenges and strengths”, WBHHS Chief Executive Deb Caroll said.

“Its key principles support the sustainable future of our healthcare by optimising patient care, ensuring it is received at the right time, by the right clinician, in the most clinically appropriate setting”.