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What?
In recent developments, NICE (The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence) has put forth draft guidelines suggesting that people with acute respiratory infections (ARI) might soon be monitored from the comfort of their homes. This proposal involves the use of advanced technology platforms, often dubbed “virtual wards” or “hospital at home”. These platforms primarily consist of three components:
- A patient-centric app or website.
- Wearable medical devices.
- A digital space for healthcare professionals.
Patients would have their key vitals, such as temperature, heart rate, oxygen levels, blood pressure, and respiratory rate, monitored and automatically relayed to healthcare practitioners. Some systems also integrate patient questionnaires to keep clinicians in the loop. This move aims to supervise individuals over 16 with ARI at home, possibly enabling earlier hospital discharges or bypassing hospital admissions altogether, thereby vacating much-needed hospital beds. It’s expected that such a system might also alleviate strain from other healthcare areas, including primary care slots and emergency hospital visits.
Why?
Virtual wards are not just a technological fad but a response to the pressing needs of the healthcare system. A significant number of urgent care cases, either at GP practices or hospitals, are related to acute respiratory infections. With the NHS grappling with capacity issues, introducing the ability to monitor ARIs from one’s home can help manage hospital patient numbers more effectively.
Mark Chapman, NICE’s interim director of medical technology and digital evaluation, highlighted the potential of virtual wards, acknowledging their safety and appeal to those familiar with technology. These platforms, when embedded within the NHS framework, might help in assessing the advantages of virtual wards for both patients and the broader healthcare apparatus.
Health Minister Helen Whately spoke about the ongoing success of virtual wards, emphasizing their role in enhancing patient comfort while simultaneously freeing hospital beds. As part of a broader healthcare strategy, plans are underway to introduce 10,000 additional virtual ward beds by winter, coupled with 5,000 physical hospital beds.
Moreover, evidence has indicated that outcomes for patients on virtual wards are on par with those in physical hospitals. The potential cost savings for the NHS with virtual ward technologies are significant, with estimations showing savings of approximately £872 per person in comparison to inpatient care.
How (does it affect you)?
So, how do these virtual wards affect healthcare consumers and, more specifically, NHS patients?
- Flexibility and Comfort: For patients, the introduction of virtual wards means the ability to recover in familiar surroundings, reducing the stress and discomfort often associated with prolonged hospital stays.
- Training and Support: Patients and their caregivers will undergo training to ensure they can confidently use the virtual ward platforms and linked medical devices. This system is designed to be user-friendly, and in case of doubts or issues, a dedicated telephone line will be available from 8am to 8pm, seven days a week. Guidelines will also be provided on whom to contact outside these hours.
- Efficient Use of NHS Services: If you or someone you know is diagnosed with ARI and feels comfortable with technology, discuss the option of a virtual ward with the clinical team. If suitable, this could mean reduced hospital stays or even no hospital admission.
- Cost and Resource Efficiency: While the primary aim of virtual wards is patient well-being, they also present an opportunity for patients to contribute to a more resource-efficient NHS. By opting for home-based care, patients can indirectly help in freeing up vital resources for those in dire need.
For those unfamiliar with navigating the NHS, remember: Communication is key. If unsure about which service to approach, always start with your GP. They can guide you towards the most appropriate care pathway, whether that’s hospital admission, outpatient care, or the innovative virtual ward.
In an age where technology permeates almost every aspect of our lives, its incorporation into the healthcare sector signifies a monumental shift. As patients and healthcare consumers, staying informed and adaptable is essential to make the most of these advancements for our well-being.
Read more here:
https://www.nuffieldtrust.org.uk/news-item/virtual-wards-the-lessons-so-far-and-future-priorities
https://www.england.nhs.uk/virtual-wards/
As always, best wishes from myHSN!
