Visits to emergency services by individuals over 75 decline in Kanta-Häme region due to mobile unit Gerbiili

Visits to emergency services by individuals over 75 have decreased in the Kanta-Häme region thanks to the introduction of a new mobile unit. In Hämeenlinna, emergency visits dropped by 10 percent over six months compared to the same period last year. The initiative launched in Riihimäki and Forssa in May has also seen positive results, with a 9 percent decline in Riihimäki and over 6 percent in Forssa.

Operational from March to August, the mobile unit, named “Gerbiili,” has served 1,580 clients and received nearly 4,000 calls or visits within the Oma Häme wellness area. Gerbiili supports professionals working in home care and nursing homes by providing advice, assistance, and home visits as needed, helping to prevent unnecessary trips to emergency departments.

Miiro Maunula, a nurse involved with Gerbiili since its inception, has found the mobile unit’s work environment more satisfying, allowing for independent decision-making during the 12-hour shifts that alternate between day and night work. Milla Mäkinen, another nurse with experience in hospital emergency care, noted the importance of providing support to the elderly during evenings and nights, emphasizing that many diagnoses can be handled at home with physician consultation.

Feedback about Gerbiili has been largely positive, with the service area manager, Sari Valaja-Jokinen, highlighting the importance of client feedback for ongoing improvement. A customer satisfaction survey targeting professionals benefiting from Gerbiili is set to launch, providing further insights into the service’s effectiveness.

In October, the mobile unit will expand its services to include support for residents in disability services and home care, ensuring a broader reach and assistance for vulnerable populations.