atology
d model, some specialist rehabilitation staff continue to work
ational therapist, based in the Highland Rheumatology Unit in
he looks at people’s hand function, works extensively around selflso
delivers vocational rehabilitation.
s meant having to come up with some innovative ways of working.
t of a new pathway to review and codify much of Victoria’s existing
on.
w patients, serving as a screening tool as Victoria cannot get out to
f employment is their biggest concern to work on the emotional and
entify three main issues, and Victoria will work collaboratively with
ia. ‘People feel more confident, and they are galvanised into action
rning to his work for a hydro power company, working on live wires;
d gone up a pylon anyway,’ she points out.
e pacing of his activities, making him mindful of the cognitive
his job. ‘One false move is critical in live wire work, and he didn’t
o hours to get to a pylon would affect his concentration,’ she says.
emic has pushed much of the rest of Victoria’s work on to telephone
eo consultations, although most hand assessments are on hold
is a more ready possibility again.
the new trauma network
ork is gradually developing in Scotland on a similar model to the
h of the border. The North of Scotland trauma network spans five
e, an advanced practice occupational therapist, works as part of
ole of the Highlands.
as meant the team has an unusual workload, with the team involved
rld who have been injured while in the Highlands.
gion, working practices are a little different. ‘If someone has had a
making it difficult for them to attend appointments, and as we are
ulie.
the norm for the team before COVID-19 arrived, with Julie working
ire support in treating patients with any associated cognitive issues.
s she has been able to send out information, worksheets and
were unable to be seen before discharge.
who was quickly discharged after a road traffic accident as he
nd did a lot of work for him,’ says Julie. ‘He used to make all the
g with running their business.
ng skills – planning, sequencing, problem solving – and over time
loyer to show his AHP Health and Work Report to, but I used it as
hen he was back at work so he wasn’t overdoing it and pacing his
r longer term outcomes – work is ongoing with the man to look at
ent through the North of Scotland Major Trauma network that has
ed investment in rehabilitation over the next few years.
killing existing staff so they can work on longer-term rehabilitation