Geriatric Evaluation Management

What is GEM@Home and RITH?

The GEM@Home (Geriatric Evaluation and Management at Home) and RITH (Rehabilitation in the Home) programs provide medical and rehabilitation services in the comfort of your home. 

The programs are goal based and time limited - typically up to 3 weeks duration.

Daily visits are made by at least one member of our team, which could include a specialised doctor, nurse, or allied health professional.  During these visits, we will help you set goals and work towards maximising your independence.

Is the GEM@Home or RITH Program right for me?

After you are accepted into the program, the treating team will assess your current medical condition, functional abilities, and home environment to work towards achieving your goals. 

We may also involve your carer or family in this assessment.

Who will be looking after me?

Each day, at least one member of our team will visit you either in person or through telehealth.

Visit times will be between 8:00 AM and 6:00 PM, with each session usually lasting between 30 to 60 minutes.

We will try to arrange visits in advance to fit with your schedule and ensure you are at home for visits.

Our team consists of

Doctors: Experts in the care of older adults and rehabilitation.

Physiotherapists: Help improve your mobility and physical tasks, like standing and walking, to enhance your quality of life.

Exercise Physiologists: Work with you to tailor exercises that build strength and endurance to achieve your personal goals.

Occupational Therapists: Assist you in managing daily activities safely and independently.

Registered Nurses: Provide guidance on wound care, medication management, and continence issues.

Social Workers: Offer advice on community resources and support emotional health and wellbeing.

Pharmacists: Conduct medication reviews to ensure proper management.

Speech Pathologists: Assist with any communication or swallowing difficulties.

Dietitians: Help you make healthy food choices suited to your health condition and recovery.

Allied Health Assistants: Support our primary therapists in delivering your care.

If needed, the program can also provide support workers for personal care (e.g., showering), in-home respite, or house-cleaning assistance.

How can I help ensure a safe visit?

To create a safe working environment for our staff, we may ask a few questions about your home and current circumstances. Please help us keep you safe during our visits by:

• Treating staff with respect.
• Refraining from smoking, drinking alcohol, or using illicit substances when we visit.
• Keeping pets in another room during visits.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I continue seeing my current home services?

Yes, we will work with your existing home services wherever possible.

If needed, we will provide additional services to support you.

Will I be able to see my GP?

While enrolled in the program, you won’t need to see your GP, as our team’s doctor will manage your care.

If you need to see your GP for reasons like repeat prescriptions or medical certificates, just let us know, and we can assist with your request. We will also communicate with your GP to ensure they are aware of your care under the program. Upon discharge, we will send your GP a medical summary of your care.

Will I have to pay for this program?

There are no fees associated with GEM@Home or RITH programs. 

All necessary equipment will be provided during your admission and for 30 days after discharge as required.

After that period, we can recommend equipment for you to purchase if needed.

How to access this service

Referrals can come from the hospital, your GP or another health professional you are seeing through the Bendigo Health Referral centre.