NHS Trials 5G

NHS trials 5G to monitor patients in their own homes to reduce the number of hospital admissions.

19:47 10 March 2019

The National Health Service (NHS) is trialling the latest healthcare technologies over 5G to reduce the number of hospital admissions. The goal is to use the technology to monitor any changes to patients’ health using sensor technology, virtual reality and telehealth.

 

The NHS has opened a digital testing space in Liverpool kitted out with a smart room that simulates a hospital room and a smart house, which plays the part of the patient’s home. It will be used to help health professionals determine the best ways to remotely monitor any changes to vital statistics, including heart rate and blood pressure.

 

Dr Paul Fitzsimmons, deputy medical director at the NHS Trust, said: “Any changes will then trigger support and can prevent an unnecessary hospital admission,” he said. “It is hoped that in the future this innovative work will also be used to support patients who are ready to be discharged from hospital.”

 

Rosemary Kay, project director at Liverpool 5G Health and Social Care, added: “We plan to use the Livernerds lab to give local, national and international companies the chance to test products,” she said, “with the potential to drive digital change in health and social care provision on a 5G network.”