Hospitals across the UK are under pressure from increasing numbers of admissions year on year. Although commonly referred to as winter pressures, the hospital capacity issue dominates throughout the year. (NHS England)
Virtual Wards can create capacity in the system without increasing beds, by caring for patients at home, and not in hospitals.
Our COVID-19 Virtual Ward (Oximetry at Home) enables health care professionals to monitor patients diagnosed or at risk of COVID-19 in their own homes. The service reduces the need for face-to-face contact, minimising the spread of the virus while freeing up staff time and beds. Thorough monitoring also reduces the risk of hospital admissions.
The COVID-19 Virtual Ward asks patients a series of questions and requests vital sign readings including oxygen levels, pulse rate and temperature. Questions can include wellness, breathing and coughing episodes and can be tailored to meet your specific requirements.
Patients at home submit readings using a communication method that suits them. This can include SMS, app, online or automated phone call. Health care professionals can use a tablet or desktop computer to access the app. The service uses the nationally recognised NEWS2 algorithm and alerts are generated for clinical follow up.
The service enables health care professionals to track patients over time, meaning changes in health can be quickly identified.
Patient readings integrate with the GP record including SystmOne and EMIS WEB.
Find out how we’ve rolled out the service across the South of England.
The service aims to create capacity in the system without increasing bed numbers
Through thorough monitoring, the service aims to reduce hospital admissions
The service reduces face-to-face contact, minimising the spread of infection
The service aims to reduce travel time for health care professionals
The service highlights patients in need of greatest care