The RCA has developed a simplified approach to capacity planning for LHINs based on the rehabilitative care needs of patients and best practice models of care. This marks the first time that needs-based capacity planning for rehabilitative care will be done in a standardized way across the province.

The RCA is using a Health System Structural Assessment (HSSA) approach that combines best practice guidelines and current evidence with patient feedback to determine future need. The approach includes a set of tools referred to as the “Capacity Planning Canvas”. The approach and tools are now being tested using the hip fracture population to ensure the processes and tools are applicable and easy to use before they are rolled out for wider use. 

The approach moves beyond assuming current service configurations will apply into the future. The Capacity Planning Task and Advisory Groups worked with clinical subject matter experts to identify what rehabilitative care services are needed by patients after a hip fracture and in what settings. A patient/family panel provided valuable insights on these needs and how patients would prefer to have them met. This information has been integrated into the model. 

As a result, the model not only uses population data to project patient numbers, but also factors in various models of care when considering how many beds and what rehabilitative care services these patients will require. For example, it considers what services could be delivered in the community rather than on an inpatient basis. This approach ensures that plans to address future needs are efficient, cost effective and evidence-informed.

The set of tools are now being refined and finalized. When completed, they will help LHINs create their own LHIN-specific hip fracture capacity plans. The toolkit and supporting materials can also be adapted for planning for other population groups. 

For more information, email info@rehabcarealliance.ca.