They feared community services would lack enough staff to prevent "social admissions" to Foote Ward and to support early discharges.
They were also concerned Foote Ward wouldn't have enough room for palliative care patients, resulting in other patients transferring to Grey Hospital.
They were worried older people living at home wouldn't receive the overnight care they needed, because home-based services wouldn't operate between 9pm and 7am.
They were also worried about the absence of respite care.
The DHB responded that, given current demand, Buller would have enough beds for aged residential care and respite care after Kynnersley and Dunsford closed.
Demand for rest home level care had dropped dramatically at both Kynnersley and O'Conor homes over the past 18 months, since the complex care clinical network was set up, the DHB said. It projected the trend would continue and demand for hospital-level and dementia care would rise.
It said strengthening community services would reduce avoidable hospital admissions.
Community 'wrap-around' services would include rapid response and supported early discharge.
These were designed to provide timely health and support services.
Relocating palliative care to Foote Ward would make it easier for Foote Ward nurses to carry out their responsibilities. The inpatient unit at the proposed Buller integrated family health centre would include palliative care.
Respite care would continue to be provided by O'Conor Home, and Dunsford until the ward closed.
The DHB said its increased community services were not intended to provide aged residential care in the community. Residential care facilities provided 24-hour care.
If older people living in their own homes needed care after 9pm they would be reassessed and, where necessary, residential care recommended.
Wage rates for staff would follow provisions in relevant contracts, the DHB said.
Safety for staff working in community services would be considered during implementation planning.
- Westport News
