New service in HAART of Moreton Bay

Above: Andy Byrne, pictured with HAART physiotherapist Pascale Goldberg, was the first to access a new rehabilitation service in Moreton Bay following his heart surgery. 

A new service helping those with age-related medical conditions is making “a big difference” in Moreton Bay, according to the first patient.

Andy Byrne, 85, says he has benefited from the new Healthy Ageing Assessment and Rehabilitation Team (HAART) at Kallangur Satellite Hospital, in Stoker Way.

HAART is open, via GP referral, to those in Bray Park, Brendale, Cashmere, Dakabin, Dayboro, Eatons Hill, Griffin, Kallangur, Kobble Creek, Lacey’s Creek, Lawnton, Mount Samson, Murrumba Downs, Petrie, Samsonvale and Strathpine.

“It has made a big difference. I feel like a different bloke,” said Mr Bryne, who lives in Kallangur.

“In 2023, I had surgery at the Prince Charles Hospital to obtain a pacemaker as I was experiencing a very low pulse and blood pressure.

“Following the heart surgery, I needed help to improve my breathing, energy levels and fitness.

“I attended the open day at Kallangur Satellite Hospital and found out about the rehabilitation service which supported patients 65 years and over.

“I received a referral from my GP and was the first person to enter the rehabilitation service.”

Community and Oral Health Allied Health Team Leader Leanne Carroll said Mr Byrne accessed a dietitian, physiotherapist, social worker and his physical health, wellbeing and capabilities were assessed.

“Andy started a personal tailored eight-week program of rehabilitation which included using weights, walking machines, bikes, step machines and exercise ball work,” she said.

“The HAART service aims to support the aging population, but also take pressure off our health system and give older people another choice for high-quality care closer to home.”

It provides rehabilitation care for patients 65-years and older (or older than 50 for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people) with rapid assessment and care pathway planning.

“The service is for older people experiencing an aged-related health condition who would benefit from reconditioning or rehabilitation,” Ms Carroll said.

It has one-on-one appointments and group therapy to promote healthy ageing, falls prevention, lifestyle improvements and pain management.

The team includes a rehabilitation medical specialist and a range of allied health professions including occupational therapy, physiotherapy, speech pathology, social work, psychology, pharmacy and dietetics.”

HAART can be accessed by a referral via GPs or a hospital, phone 3285 0066 (seven days a week) to speak to an intake clinician who can assist with organising an assessment.