NHS Video Calls for Elderly

The use of new technologies, including video calls for the elderly help reduce the strain on NHS services in Manchester.

22:36 12 June 2019

Digital Healthcare Unit at Tameside Hospital has confirmed that it has prevented more than 1,000 avoidable visits to A&E using new technologies, including video calls for the elderly.  The hospital’s team of nurses talks to patients at the comforts of their own home to discuss their ailments instead of calling for an ambulance right away. The service is integrated with health and social care services and allows nurses to contact a GP or a council if assistance is required.

 

 

 

So far, the scheme has helped the NHS saved £1.3million.

 

 

 

The service is currently being used by 44 care homes, sheltered accommodation in Greater Manchester, and about 3,500 patients to communicate with medical staff.

 

 

 

Dr Raj Patel from NHS England said the pilot "is not for those elderly. They can access healthcare in the traditional way using the phone and GP appointment.

 

 

 

"This is for the very frail and vulnerable who are already in nursing homes or settings where they require 24-hour care. It is about making the best use of the public's pound."

 

 

 

Beryl Penkett, one of the patients monitored using the technology at home, said: "It's made a big difference to me because it makes me independent. She added that the service also provided "peace of mind that if I fall, somebody is there on the other end".