St John’s Falls Prevention Pathway

Falls prevention

The Falls Prevention Pathway is one way in which St John works with partners to increase access to services for those at risk of falling.

St John ambulance crews responding to people within their home can use the Electronic Patient Report Form (ePRF) system to make referrals to local falls prevention services managed by local DHBs and PHOs. These services often include strength and balance classes delivered within the community or if the patient is not able to leave the house then a physiotherapist will come to them.

Falls are the single most common cause of injury amongst elderly patients with St John responding to approximately 34,000 fall incidents a year nationally and completing 3,970 fall prevention referrals in the year 2021.

Before being referred through the Falls Prevention Pathway, Bethany from Auckland was isolated and falling regularly. Thanks to the referral, Bethany was able to access a local strength and balance class and has now gained stability, community connection and confidence.

“I was falling prior to joining the class two years ago, but have not had any falls since coming so I feel the class is helping,” says Bethany. “The social aspect of the class is also great and so important.”

Image supplied by St John and used with permission

The Falls Prevention Pathway enables St John to work in partnership to improve the patient journey for older New Zealanders, ensure a continuity of care and support patients to receive the right care at the right time.