Virtual Wards in Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Revolutionise Hospital Care

Cornwall and Isles of Scilly are witnessing a transformative approach to hospital care, thanks to the deployment of virtual wards. These virtual wards have enabled patients to receive hospital-level care within the comfort of their own homes, significantly reducing the demand on acute hospital bed spaces.

In January alone, the virtual ward system, operated by the Cornwall Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, admitted 321 new patients, effectively saving over 3,000 acute hospital bed days. This innovative service, which has expanded since its inception during the pandemic, can now treat up to 212 patients simultaneously, with around 10 patients being referred daily.

Nurse Claire Bettison is the Trust’s Operational Lead for Digital Health. She says there are many benefits for patients:

One of the patients, Barbara Bennett from Redruth, shared her positive experience with the virtual ward after choosing it for the treatment of an acute lung infection associated with COPD. Bennett highlighted the advantages of recovering at home, such as avoiding hospital-acquired infections, experiencing less fatigue due to a quieter environment, and enjoying the festive season with her family.

Virtual wards cater to individuals with acute respiratory or frailty conditions that can be managed at home, as opposed to in a hospital setting. This doesn’t mean care is compromised; clinicians provide face-to-face treatments and diagnostics as needed, supported by daily phone calls, remote monitoring, and regular reviews by medical and pharmacy teams.

The service underscores the importance of the home environment in a patient’s recovery. The familiarity and comfort of being at home, alongside maintaining social connections and dietary habits, play crucial roles in enhancing the recovery process. Furthermore, the option of virtual wards offers patients a choice in their care pathway, emphasising patient autonomy and involvement in their health management.

This innovative approach not only enhances patient satisfaction and outcomes but also alleviates the strain on hospital resources, showcasing a sustainable model for future healthcare delivery.