Home-based rehab redefines patient recovery at Nepean Hospital
Patients recovering from illness or injury can now receive high-quality rehabilitation care in the comfort of their own homes, thanks to a new service launched by the Rehabilitation Department at Nepean Hospital.
Rehab in the Home (RITH) is a coordinated, multidisciplinary program that provides hospital-level rehab services without requiring a hospital stay. The program brings together a team of doctors, nurses, and allied health professionals including, physiotherapists, and occupational therapists to deliver personalised rehabilitation to patients—helping them recover faster and regain independence in their daily lives.
The service supports people who are well enough to leave hospital but still require ongoing rehab to complete their recovery. Patients may have had recent surgery, a stroke, or a complex medical event, and benefit from staying active and engaged in familiar surroundings.
Head of Rehabilitation, Dr Sharon Wong says that RITH is a much-needed model of care that provides patients flexibility and choice about how and where they can access rehabilitation.
“We know people rehabilitate better when they’re at home. They're more motivated and can work on functional goals that are relevant to their everyday lives,” explains Sharon.
“We can also involve their supports and carers within their home environment, providing a smoother transition home for all involved. Rehab in the Home allows us to deliver the same high-quality care without the stress or risk of a prolonged hospital stay.”
The launch of RITH reflects a broader shift towards integrated, community-based care that meets patients where they are—both physically and in their recovery journey. It will be a service that can provide face to face as well as virtual care, utilising telehealth.
The RITH service is available seven days a week, 365 days a year, from 7:00am to 5:00pm.
Learn more about how NBMLHD is continuing to transform care delivery by developing flexible, patient-centred services that support recovery, independence and quality of life beyond the hospital walls.