TBI Health has been running the Mobility in Action Programme (MAP), a heavily subsidised rehabilitation service for people developing hip or knee osteoarthritis (OA) since May 2016. The programme is a great opportunity for patients to learn about how they can improve the management of their condition and get back to doing the activities that they love.
Improved outcomes for clients
We are excited to report that the programme has been a success! We are seeing an improvement across all outcomes being measured such as:
- quality of life
- pain
- functional ability
- self-efficacy
Not only are we seeing these clinically significant improvements at the completion of the programme, we are also seeing continued improvements on follow up at three month’s post completion.
Outstanding client satisfaction rating
We have had great feedback on the programme with our current client satisfaction rate sitting at 95% and we are working hard to ensure patients are being linked in with the community services/groups most suitable for them to provide ongoing support post completion with us.
Mr James McBride from Wainuiomata has completed the programme where his individualised programme has consisted of:
- Home visits for education and prescription of a home exercise programme,
- A green prescription referral to access the local gym,
- Attending the gym with his physiotherapist for prescription, supervision and progression of his exercises,
- Referral into education classes for presentations by Allied Health professionals on; “What is OA”, “Nutrition and weight management”, “Pain management”, and “How to stay active”.
James reported: “It was either find a solution or end up at the hospital. I was experiencing a lot of pain and was limited during the day. The pain started to affect my work to the point where sometimes I couldn’t move, and my boss noticed. Pain relief wasn’t helping and I felt really frustrated. I tried a different GP who recommended me to the programme.
By getting me away from the TV, I have been going out to the gym three times a week instead of being a couch potato, and it is making me feel good. I never thought I would be the type of person to go to a gym, but now I am, and I am really enjoying it.”
How long does the programme take to complete?
Depending on your assessment results, MAP runs between 6 – 12 weeks. On completion, clients are integrated into support services that are available within the community. This includes the Green Prescription and Arthritis New Zealand support.
Who can access the programme?
This programme is available for patients living in the Hutt Valley or MidCentral regions. Please discuss Mobility in Action with your Doctor or Health Professional to determine if you can be referred.
How much does it cost?
The programme is subsidised by the Ministry of Health. Depending on your circumstance, our co-payments for the programme will range from $0 – $15 a consultation. We can discuss and confirm co-payments (if any) with you before starting the programme.
Tips on keeping active with OA
Learn about some tips on staying active while living with osteoarthritis.