What is the capacity of Medway Maritime Hospital's virtual wards?

Medway Maritime Hospital has expanded its virtual ward capacity from 80 to 120 beds, with plans to increase it further to 200.

How does virtual care benefit patients in Kent?

Virtual care allows patients to receive hospital-level treatment at home, leading to better outcomes and enabling them to maintain independence.

How are virtual wards monitored by healthcare staff?

Healthcare staff monitor patients remotely through video consultations, track vital signs like heart rate and blood pressure, and review test results.

Home / Health / NHS Expands Home Treatment Tech

NHS Expands Home Treatment Tech

24 Jan

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Summary

Virtual hospital capacity increased to 120 beds, aiming for 200.
Patients report better outcomes and independence with virtual care.
Technology enables continuous monitoring and remote patient management.

The NHS in Kent is significantly expanding its use of technology to provide hospital-level care to patients in their own homes. Medway Maritime Hospital has enhanced its virtual ward service, increasing capacity from 80 to 120 virtual beds and aiming to reach 200. This initiative allows healthcare professionals to manage a wider range of medical conditions remotely.

Patients are experiencing improved outcomes and maintaining independence through this virtual care model. Health workers conduct patient rounds virtually, monitoring vital signs such as heart rate and blood pressure, and reviewing test results via video consultations. While much care is remote, some tasks, like administering antibiotics via controlled-release containers, involve home visits.