Improving Health Outcomes
At KidsAbility, we believe that being on a waitlist shouldn’t mean being left in the dark. We’re reimagining the whole waitlist experience with our innovative Early Engagement Project. By partnering with families, we’re transforming the way they navigate waiting and ensuring they have the support and tools they need during this time.
Problem
The demand for children’s rehabilitation services continues to grow. Unfortunately, this surge in demand has led to a substantial waiting period before children and their families can access the vital services they require. Families are left feeling stranded, and the frustration is undeniable. In fact, when we surveyed families, a whopping 100% said the wait was simply too long. But here at KidsAbility, we don’t believe in just accepting the status quo. Our Intake Coordinators, who are often the first point of contact for families, have witnessed firsthand the stress and anxiety that comes with waiting. That’s why we’ve decided to take action and redefine what it means to be on a waitlist.
Solution
Our solution is rooted in our unwavering commitment to family-centered care. We understand that emotional and educational support is crucial for families during the waiting period. So, we launched the ground-breaking Early Engagement Project, inspired by insights from our dedicated front-line staff. By collaborating closely with parents and families, we’re designing a program that offers emotional and educational support to those on the waitlist. If we’re successful, families will no longer have to feel alone or helpless during the waiting period. They’ll be provided the tools, resources, and connections they need to be a partner in their child’s treatment journey. The Early Engagement Project aims to support families from day one, allowing them to make progress and nurture their child’s development while they wait.
Update
November 2024
Progress Update
As part of our Early Engagement work, we learned about existing programs in the province, and worked with KidsAbility families and staff to co-create a groundbreaking program we call Launch Groups. Now, when a family calls with a concern about their child, they are invited to a Launch Group, a small playgroup, as part of their intake. Here they have access to professionals, such as speech-language pathologists, occupational therapists, physiotherapists, who share strategies, guidance and the best next steps tailored to each child’s needs. By participating in Launch groups, families no longer have to feel alone or helpless while they wait. They are provided the tools, resources, and connections necessary to be an active partner in their child’s treatment journey, and they receive clear communication about what the next steps in their journey at KidsAbility will be. Launch groups aim to support families from day one, allowing them to make progress and nurture their child’s development.
Benefits
“By deepening our partnerships with families and providing tools and resources to support their child, many families and caregivers, can and will, start interventions at home while they wait.” – Gabrielle Shiry, Intake Program Manager
Early outcomes show that 98% of caregivers who attended Launch group felt that their concerns were heard and 89% received information they can use to help their child.
Caregivers who attended Launch group were overall more satisfied with KidsAbility services. Launch Groups hold the power to reduce family stress and prevent the advancement of a child’s condition, ultimately enhancing outcomes. By implementing this program, families no longer feel like they are just waiting on a list; instead, they engage directly with professionals who provide actionable next steps to try at home. This proactive involvement helps families feel empowered and connected, as they meet other families navigating similar experiences. Families receive expert guidance straight from the professionals they’ve been eager to see, ensuring they feel supported throughout the process. This approach not only provides families with the reassurance and validation they deserve, but also allows us to prioritize those who need help most urgently.
