Our friends at Eastern AHSN (Academic Health Science Network) have published a report about a remote monitoring trial they held in Care Homes during the COVID-19 pandemic, aiming to identify deterioration using digital tools.
Using soft signs tools and taking complete NEWS2 scores, the Whzan Blue Box was introduced in 33 residential care homes across seven clinical commissioning groups (CCGs) in the East of England, representing 1,600 beds.
With a range of other digital tools designed to record vital signs, the data stored in each resident’s personal profile is securely accessible to clinical decision-makers who can make quick, early interventions if necessary.
Besides the care staff feeling empowered to support residents in staying at the care home for longer, the financial impact was immense with an estimated £201k saved in six months from these 33 care homes.
As just 2.5% of care homes in the East of England took part, if there was an 80% take up, the report suggests savings could be as much as £13,000,000 per year in the region.
We’re delighted to have played a part in such positive outcomes. You can read more about the trial and the conclusions here.