Brain Injury Community Integration Service successfully cares for 65 patients in last year

NQ-based brain injury service looks to expand after successful first year helping 65 patients manage everyday lives post hospital care.

Melanie Senent, Henk Pit and Jennifer Quaill. Picture: contributed

In a first of its kind service outside of Brisbane, a team of rehabilitation co-ordinators have helped those with brain injuries get back to their everyday lives outside of the hospital, and since the programs launch has seen great success in the region.

The Brain Injury Community Integration Service (BICS) has now helped 65 patients manage their injuries while maintaining daily roles such as work, driving and getting to take part in sports and recreation.

It offers up to 12 months support for clients including home visits, community outings and phone or telehealth consults.

Henk Pit suffered a stroke one day and said his life changed in an instant.

“At first I was unable to move my arm or leg and I was really facing an uncertain future,” he said.

“But today, I’m able to walk with a walker, I volunteer at my local yacht club and I’m planning a trip to visit family in Brisbane, Melbourne and Adelaide.”

The man credited BICS in Townsville as being able to help him achieve such milestones.

“Going from outpatient care five days a week to being at home by myself was a frightening prospect,” he said.

“I’m so thankful that my rehabilitation co-ordinator Melanie Senent and the rest of the BICS team were so fantastic in supporting me during this challenging time.

“They’ve helped me with exercises to assist in my recovery, as well as daily activities like banking and setting up my aged care support package.”

Ms Senent said BICS provided services to ensure vulnerable patients still received important care outside of the hospital.

“As well as helping our clients get back to daily activities, we’re also supporting them as they navigate systems like NDIS, which is especially important for those with cognitive or physical challenges post brain injury,” she said.

BICS team leader Jenny Quaill said the service supports those with moderate to severe brain injuries.

“Given BICS has already experienced a high demand from the community since its launch in Townsville, we hope to secure permanent funding and to expand the service reach to ensure more people across north Queensland have access to this critical care close to home.”

Referrals to the service are available through GPs, medical specialists and allied health professionals.

Originally published as Brain Injury Community Integration Service successfully cares for 65 patients in last year