Mobile X-ray services provided within residential aged care facilities

This study used a mixed method approach to evaluate mobile X-ray services use in residential aged care facilities.

The study used the Registry of Older South Australians linked dataset to determine the historical and prospective utilisation of radiology services and associated health service use. These data were complemented by an understanding of the preferences and attitudes of residents, their families and aged care providers have towards access to X-ray imaging.

Additionally, the research assessed whether a Medical Benefits Schedule (MBS) item to cover the call-out will facilitate service use and determine the cost-effectiveness of mobile radiology.

The study considered both the health service and societal impact; benefiting residents in RACFs. Research outcomes provided the necessary evidence for the Department of Health to determine whether the call-out fee improved appropriate access and reduced ED presentations, and its decision-making on the management of this MBS funded service and viability of the mobile service.

This project was led by Professor Guy J. Maddern from the University of Adelaide and involved researchers at SAHMRI

PARTNERING INSTITUTIONS

South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, Safety and Efficacy Register of New Interventional Procedures - Surgey (ASERNIP-S), Royal Australasian College of Surgeons, Flinders University, Central Adelaide Local Health Network (CALHN)

This project was funded by the Medical Research Future Fund