Waypoint makes history with at-home mental-health, addiction program

Waypoint Centre for Mental Health Care has become the first hospital in Ontario offering an at-home program focused on specialized mental health and addiction care.

Waypoint communications officer Travis Mealing says the program is designed for individuals who no longer need the level of care provided in the hospital, but still require assistance to safely return home or to a community setting.

“The Waypoint At Home program is a milestone achievement that helps address a service gap within the healthcare system,” Mealing says in an email, noting the program is delivered in partnership with Bayshore HealthCare Integrated Care Solutions.

“The program offers care co-ordination, professional care and treatment, personal support services, and homemaking or community support services.”

Waypoint president and chief executive officer Dr. Nadiya Sunderji points out in a release that the program is a wonderful example of how the hospital works with its partners to better meet patient needs and help more people access care.

“Keeping pace with an increased need for care while also addressing service gaps within the healthcare system requires the leadership, innovation and expertise of many partners,” she said.

Waypoint At Home offers eligible patients between eight and 16 weeks of care in their homes following a hospital stay. The program provides timely access to expert and compassionate care for individuals who require the specialized mental health and addiction services provided in hospital.

It also brings the support of mental health and addiction specialists, nurses, behaviour therapists, behaviour support workers, personal support workers and social workers to patients in their homes after discharge from hospital.

To begin, a program coordinator meets with patients and their families while they’re still in the hospital to discuss their care needs and how the program can benefit them. Individualized services may include care coordination, professional care and treatment, personal support services and homemaking or community support services.

“Even though a hospital stay may be necessary, it can also be difficult to be away from home in unfamiliar surroundings,” Waypoint outpatient and rehabilitation services director Rhonda Johnstone said in a release..

“The Waypoint At Home program helps us provide the right care, at the right time and in the right place, where patients can feel most comfortable to continue on their journey to recovery.”

Bayshore regional diretor Danielle Holler said the strategy aims to prevent unnecessary emergency department visits and additional admissions.

She adds: “It highlights Bayshore’s dedication to addressing the unique needs of this population through innovative solutions.”

For more information on the program, click here.