“Linda Greenwood”
Clinical Specialist
Stroke Occupational Therapy
with Dilys Page
A. Yes, I think we have done well so far, considering the problems we have encountered with staffing levels. Therefore I appreciate this opportunity to share some thoughts on the past and future direction of the Occupational Therapy Service in the Acute Trust.
Q. What would you say are the outstanding achievements, and what are you most pleased about?
A. My appointment as “Clinical Specialist” in April has been the main achievement so far, as it has enabled me to provide leadership to the Occupational Therapy Team. Our Therapy Assistant Posts are now filled. This has meant that patients on Ward 110 now have the opportunity to attend therapeutic groups Saturday and Sunday mornings. To date, these include a cognitive and social speech group, and a movement group.
I’m also pleased that we have been able to evidence several areas of our clinical practice, which has benefited patients therapy on the ward. We have taken the opportunity to present improvements in practice at National, Regional and Local Conferences.
Q. What are your main worries?
A. The Acute Trust is the gateway to the Stroke Service. Therefore, it is our job to put the foundations of rehabilitation in place to enable patients to achieve their optimum potential over time. Evidence suggests that frequency and duration of Occupational Therapy are important factors in recovery. My worry is that there is insufficient investment in early rehabilitation, particularly Occupational Therapy, to provide our patients with the best chance of recovery. Patients aren’t getting enough.
Q. Are there enough beds for the acute stage, or do Stroke patients have to be accommodated on wards other than Ward 110?
A. No, there are not enough beds. Patients often have to wait on outlying wards for a place on the Stoke Unit and also on outlying wards at Castle Hill. However, it is important to realise that if bed numbers were increased, additional staff and therapy treatment facilities would be needed.
Q. What do you think are the main issues for Occupational Therapy in the Stroke Service?
A. There is only one issue, and that is the recruitment and retention of permanent staff. My aim over the next six months, with the support of my manager, is to have four Occupational Therapists in post, two of which might be on rotation. The presence of experienced permanent staff is essential in attracting newly qualified graduates who are keen to work in Stroke.
Q. Any final thoughts?
A. Occupational Therapy does work to the benefit of the patient’s rehabilitation. Evidence suggests that with the right duration and frequency of treatment, patients can achieve greater independence, be less of a burden on their carer, and less of a burden on statutory services. Lets try and make the difference to individuals who have suffered a Stroke in Hull and East Riding.
Thank you Linda.
Summer 2004