Seniors’ emergency visits decline in Kanta-Häme due to mobile unit implementation

Visits by seniors aged over 75 have decreased in Kanta-Häme due to a new mobile unit. In the Hämeenlinna area, emergency visits dropped by 10% over six months compared to the same period last year. Operations began in May in the Riihimäki and Forssa regions, where visits decreased by 9% and over 6%, respectively.

Known as “Gerbiili,” this home hospital and emergency care unit assisted 1,580 clients and received nearly 4,000 calls or visits in Kanta-Häme from March to August. Gerbiili supports professionals working in home care and nursing homes by offering advice, assistance, and home visits when necessary to avoid unnecessary emergency room visits.

Nurse Miiro Maunula, involved with Gerbiili from the start, transitioned from a hectic emergency setting to this calmer mobile unit. He appreciates the independence in decision-making and favorable work schedule, which includes two day shifts followed by two night shifts, allowing a day for rest before five days off. Maunula believes such a model should be adopted in more healthcare settings.

Formerly a nurse at Forssa Hospital, Milla Mäkinen notes that after the hospital’s overnight emergency department was closed, there was an opportunity to assist the elderly in a new way through Gerbiili. Staff can consult with doctors as necessary to provide evening and nighttime support at home, helping to keep patients out of emergency care in Hämeenlinna.

Sari Valaja-Jokinen, the service area manager, reports that feedback on Gerbiili has been positive, contributing to ongoing improvements. A client satisfaction survey for home care professionals is forthcoming, aiming to gather more valuable feedback as the mobile unit expands its services to include support for disability services in October.