Friday, March 06, 2015
St Joseph's Health Care London
New Parkwood Institute Program Filling Care Gap: TLC for those with special health care needs
A new program at St. Joseph’s Parkwood Institute is filling a gap in rehabilitative care for adults with disorders of childhood onset such as cerebral palsy, spina bifida and developmental delay.
“It is wonderful that the life expectancy of those living with complex needs, physical disabilities and other conditions continues to increase,” says Michael Barrett, CEO, South West Local Health Integration Network. “We now need to ensure the health care system is changing to meet the needs of these children as they move into the adult-centred health care system. The South West LHIN is pleased to provide $374,727 in base funding for the creation of the Transitional and Lifelong Care (TLC) Program.”
“We are grateful and relieved our son will be receiving the rehabilitative care he needs through the TLC program,” says Jacqueline Madden, whose 21-year-old son Chris has spina bifida.
“By locating the program at Parkwood Institute we will be leveraging our therapists’ expert rehabilitative skills to enhance the health and quality of life for these patients,” adds rehabilitation director Julie Gilvesy.
“At the TLC program, Dr. Caitlin Cassidy, a specialist in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, will be working together with nursing and other allied health care professionals to provide comprehensive, family-centred, rehabilitative care to those with significant health care needs,” says Dr. Tim Doherty, the chair/chief of the Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation.
Growing up with a brother with cerebral palsy sparked Dr. Cassidy’s interest in disorders of childhood onset. “I witnessed first-hand the medical successes the paediatric system can achieve for children with cerebral palsy, spina bifida and other conditions, but I also saw the drop-off of services once these kids reached adulthood. I’m proud to be part of a new, interdisciplinary program that will provide rehabilitative care so these patients can maximize their potential throughout their adult years.”
Media Contact:
Anne Kay
Communication and Public Affairs
St Joseph's Health Care London
519-646-6100 ext 42470
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