Connecting up for care and wellbeing

摘要

Care home residents and people with long-term conditions have suffered heavily during COVID-19. The sheer pressure on key workers and the fear of infection has meant those who need regular face to face consultations and hospital visits just haven't been able to access the healthcare they need. But new technology and digital devices promises to change that. In London we are currently working with six companies to implement remote monitoring in approximately 600 care homes, supporting 21,000 older people to remain well in their own homes. Hardware and a digital platform allows care home staff to take, record and monitor vital signs of care home residents. This information is then stored on a digital platform, which can be accessed by healthcare professionals, such as the GP. Having access to clinical information such as temperature, heart rate and blood pressure allows care homes to spot signs that a resident is becoming unwell early and share their concerns with healthcare professionals. Care home staff, in partnership with clinical staff, can then plan and prioritise care accordingly.