Case Study: Peter

Each week, we will be asking you to reflect on a case study, and share your thoughts in the comment section below. The case study will be related to what you have learned this week in the course.

In the following fictional case study, you will be asked to reflect on your practice and Peter’s experience.

Peter is a 56 year old man with Down syndrome who has just recently moved from a large residential unit to a new community bungalow. Peter has been feeling unwell for the last day and has to visit the doctor.

All his life he has received his medical care in the residential unit where he lived. The doctor and all other services came to his unit, so he never had to leave the area.

Now, in his new home, he must access the primary healthcare setting in the local village. This is a strange experience for Peter and he is very anxious.

Considering Peter’s recent move

• What challenges do you think you could encounter because of that change? (for example, as a carer in Peter’s group home, or as a healthcare professional working in the primary healthcare clinic).
• What barriers do you think Peter could face in this first health assessment?
• What supports do you think Peter would need to overcome these potential barriers?