For people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) who have multiple chronic conditions and a complex medication routine, a nurse can mean the difference between life and death. Koinonia’s nurses are our clients’ advocates for quality healthcare, and they improve healthcare outcomes by reducing medication errors, updating medical records, training direct support staff, and advocating for clients with their healthcare providers. Nursing care coordination is essential to integrating information and services of a highly fragmented healthcare system, especially for vulnerable individuals with co-morbidities and difficulties expressing themselves.
At least 60% of the people supported by Koinonia have more than five chronic diagnoses and see multiple specialists, averaging 5-20 healthcare visits per year. They also average 5-10 medications daily, more than the average nursing home patient. While Koinonia’s Direct Support Professionals accompany our clients to medical appointments, our valuable nursing team provides the necessary medical expertise to serve as advocates with other healthcare professionals like doctors, hospital staff, doctor office staff, and pharmacies.