
TY  - JOUR
A1  - English, Justin M 
A1  - Mykyta, Lu 
T1  - Entry One: striving for best practice in professional assessment
JF  - Australian Health Review
JO  - Aust. Health Review
Y1  - 2002
VL  - 25
IS  - 2
SP  - 129
EP  - 135
KW  - 
UR  - https://doi.org/10.1071/AH020129 
N2  - The aim of this study was to develop a best practice model of professional assessment to ensure efficient and effectivedelivery of home-based services to frail and disabled elders. In 2000, an innovative model of professional assessment was introduced by one of Australia's largest providers of home-based care in order to reduce multiple assessments and to reduce the utilisation of assessment as a gatekeeping tool for limiting access to services. Data was analysed from arandom sample of 1500 clients drawn from a population of 5000 as well as through the use of a survey tooladministered to the Organisation's assessment staff and other key stakeholders. Results revealed that, contrary to popular belief, carer advocacy plays a significant role in the professional assessment process to the point that clients with carers received significantly more services and service time that clients withoutsuch support. However, if not monitored, assessment can also be used as a gate-keeping tool as opposed to one that can provide significant benefits to the consumers through comprehensive need articulation. We argue that the "professional" approach does not preclude empowerment and that assessment should not be used as a gate-keeping tool. 
ER  -

