What the service is

The Eloura High Care Area (EHCA) is a discrete 6 bed area within the Eloura Unit. It has a short length of stay between 1 to 14 days.

What we do

Consumers admitted to the EHCA will receive tailored interventions aimed to address individual consumer needs. All care on the EHCA is focused on the provision of best practice, and maintains the safety and dignity of consumers.

The EHCA involves consumers and their family/carers in all aspects of care planning from the moment of admission. Whilst it is recognised that this may not always be possible, it is seen as the basis of how care is delivered. The EHCA uses a recovery focussed and strength-based approach to the delivery of care, aiming to recognise and support consumer's strengths and individual recovery journey.

The EHCA:

• acts primarily as a 'step up' short term resource for the Illawarra Shoalhaven acute mental health units,
• provides a higher level of observation for consumers,
• operates under a trauma informed model of service,
• provides a cooperative team approach in care planning and provision,
• creates an environment to foster the active participation of consumers in recovery,
• engages consumers and families/carers in treatment planning and care delivery,
• integrates with the broader health system with a clear role and connections to other services where appropriate, and
• is an admission option to the (Illawarra Shoalhaven Local Health District) Emergency Departments in very exceptional circumstances.

What to expect

On admission to the EHCA you will be greeted by the nursing staff who will complete the admission process. You will then see a Visiting Medical Officer as soon as practicable. You will be invited to attend groups with nursing and allied health staff as part of your treatment.

Who should access this service

The EHCA is an adult mental health unit. Any person generally over the age of 18 that requires treatment for a mental illness is able to access this service.

How to access this service

Referrals to the Mental Health Service are by calling:

Mental Health Line is a 24-hour telephone access service.

If it is an emergency call: 000

This service is accessed via a community mental health team, referral by a GP, or following an assessment in an Emergency Department.

What to bring / what will be required

Toiletries, casual clothing, footwear, and nightwear.