An innovative project using clever tech to keep people safe and well in care homes is in the running for an accolade.
‘Connected Care’ uses remote technology to reduce avoidable hospital admissions by enabling care home staff to recognise deterioration early, escalate their worries and concerns and receive a timely response from health professionals.
As part of the programme, Chris, who has a learning disability, has been equipped with a Whzan Blue Box, a piece of technology which allows him to regularly measure his heart rate, blood pressure and temperature so he has a clear understanding of the situation with his health.
The initiative, run by Leicester City Council, Leicestershire County Council, Rutland County Council, the Integrated Care Board and These Hands Academy, has been shortlisted in the upcoming Local Government Chronicle (LGC) awards.
Leader of Leicestershire County Council, Dan Harrison, said: “We’re proud of this project which is making a big difference to our residents’ lives.
“Being in hospital can increase people’s anxiety levels, so having technology available to carry out checks in their homes helps to relieve some of those worries and avoids unnecessary hospital admissions.”
Councillor Diane Ellison, Cabinet Member for Adults and Health at Rutland County Council, said: “It’s fantastic to see the Connected Care Programme recognised again. This partnership is making a real difference by helping people stay well at home and avoid unnecessary hospital visits, which is especially important for our most vulnerable residents.’
Kerry Kaur, Head of Integration and Transformation at Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland Integrated Care Board, said: “This award is a tribute to the hard work of colleagues in health and social care across Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland supporting care home residents to be cared for away from hospital.
“We’re really proud of the work we have done and the recognition reinforces for us that we are making a positive change for the people we care for.”
Find out more about the programme, its positive impact across the health and care system, and, most importantly, the difference it has made to Chris’ life in a short YouTube video.
The LGC award winners will be announced on 11 June.