Milton's health body continued to deliver a very high standard of care despite economic and social pressures, its annual meeting heard recently.
The Milton Community Health Trust revealed extra responsibilities had placed pressure on its already tight budgets but the past year had still seen it manage to provide those services.
Chairman Malcolm Flett said it was satisfying the trust continued to deliver a high standard.
"The tendency for hospitals to discharge their patients earlier . . . has shifted costs to organisations such as ours."
The trust tried improve the skills of district nurses in new procedures, while working closely with GPs and other health workers to make the transition as smooth as possible for former hospital patients back in their community.
Mr Flett said small communities needed a say in the delivery of care, and feedback through questionnaires and surveys, as well as direct contact.
Nurse manager Dale Wyber, said in her report it was another busy year for staff.
She highlighted some key statistics for the year ending June 30.
• District nurses made 5734 visits.
• They provided 708 Accident Compensation Corporation (ACC) visits.
• Home support staff provided 961 hours of domestic help.
• They also provided 20 hours of personal care.
• The trust provided 160 meals on wheels for ACC clients and the larger Meals on Wheels service delivered 5073 meals.
• Clinic and home physiotherapy services provided 2071 services, while 42 rehabilitation services were also offered.
• Occupational therapy service totalled 267.
