Health technology is a success for patients
Patients with long term conditions who use an innovative healthcare machine in their homes have had fewer hospital admissions and enjoyed better health since using the service, according to a recent survey.
The results of a patient satisfaction survey revealed that since using the assistive technology machines, 63% of patients have had fewer unplanned admissions to hospital and 67% felt that their general health was more stable. In addition, 74% said that they felt less anxious about their health and 54% felt they had been able to do more with their friends and family. And 90% of patients said they would recommend the service to their family and friends.
Currently more than 150 patients across east and north Birmingham have had the assistive technology equipment installed in their homes as part of their care package. This includes a special machine that allows patients to record readings of their weight, pulse, oxygen level and blood pressure at times of the day to suit them.
The data is automatically sent to Birmingham OwnHealth, the telephone-based support service for people with long term conditions, where nurses monitor the readings. If the readings give cause for concern, the patient’s Assertive Case Manager will be alerted and call round to check up on them if necessary.
Dr Richard Mendelsohn, Director of Chronic Disease Systems at NHS Birmingham East and North added: “We are delighted with the results of this survey, which prove what a success assistive technology is to the people who use it. Already more than 166 patients within east and north Birmingham are benefiting from these machines, which are another way in which to help them to manage their condition better, live more independently and have a better quality of life.”
To find out if Birmingham OwnHealth or how Assistive Technology can help you with your long-term condition, ask your GP or other health professional in east or north Birmingham or go to www.birminghamownhealth.co.uk.
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Enquiries
For more information, please contact Niki McGrath, Communications and Engagement Manager, on 0121 380 0638 / niki.mcgrath@benpct.nhs.uk or Sarah Millard, Senior Communications Manager on 0121 380 0620 / sarah.millard@benpct.nhs.uk
Notes for editors
- NHS Birmingham East and North commissioned the survey which was sent out to 174 people who use the assistive technology and we received 72 responses. For a full copy of the survey results please email niki.mcgrath@benpct.nhs.uk
- Birmingham OwnHealth is a telephone-based support and advice service aimed at people who live in east and north Birmingham and have long- term conditions, including diabetes, coronary heart disease, heart failure, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), high blood pressure, stroke or TIA (“mini stroke”) and chronic kidney disease. It also helps people who are aged over 65 and would like help with a range of conditions. The aim of the service is to help people make positive changes to their health and lifestyles and learn how to manage their conditions better. Health professionals are designated to each member and provide them with one-to-one healthcare in several languages over the telephone by health professionals designated to each member.
- Birmingham OwnHealth is a partnership of NHS Birmingham East and North, UK Pfizer Health Solutions and NHS Direct. Pfizer Health Solutions is a group within Pfizer Limited that operates independently of Pfizer’s medicines business.
