The Development of an Interprofessional Annual Wellness Visit for Females, Post-Stroke
Stroke is a major cause of death and long-term disability, especially among disadvantaged groups. While the annual incidence of stroke is increasing, mortality from stroke is decreasing resulting in more patients living with residual deficits. Some of the most prevalent stroke complications are speech impairment, limited physical abilities, unilateral weakness or paralysis, grasp difficulties, and slowed communication ability. Early treatment and rehabilitation after a stroke can improve recovery and functional outcomes. Low income and education quality have contributed to a high prevalence of stroke in Louisiana. The goal of this research was to develop an interprofessional annual wellness visit (AWV) focused on secondary prevention (assessment and education) for females with a history of stroke who live in Louisiana and are classified as most disadvantaged according to the Area Deprivation Index.
Health professional students enrolled in various programs at LSUHSC-NO determined which health professions were essential to an interprofessional AWV addressing common disabilities for individuals with a history of stroke. An AWV and implementation strategy were developed, and potential implementation benefits, challenges, and solutions were identified.
Professions determined to be necessary for the AWV were cardiovascular sonographers, dentists, nurses, occupational therapists, physicians (including neurologists and cardiologists), and speech therapists. The AWV consists of a two hour patient visit involving a full body assessment, blood pressure management, smoking cessation education, ECG, echocardiogram, and more. It would take place at a facility where all involved healthcare professionals are located. Cost effectiveness was achieved through a reduction of redundant testing, history taking, and tasks performed by providers.
The interprofessional AWV supports collaboration between healthcare providers and the patient, promoting improved quality of care. Providers are able to work collaboratively to address the patient as a whole and ensure accurate and consistent communication. The patient can leave the AWV feeling knowledgeable and confident that all aspects of their health concerns are addressed in one visit.
An interprofessional AWV increases healthcare delivery efficiencies for the providers and the patient. The patient will not have to schedule several appointments at various locations to receive care. This is especially beneficial in disadvantaged communities due to potential access or transportation issues which may hinder patients from attending several healthcare visits. The population also benefits by having a healthcare team focused on addressing disparities associated with disadvantaged populations.
Our research and subsequent poster was developed by an interprofessional student team with the goal of creating an interprofessional healthcare approach.
