Launched in early 2023, this innovative approach has already transformed patient outcomes by facilitating proactive early discharges from the hospital, allowing patients to receive specialised treatment in the comfort of their own homes, negating the need for a prolonged hospital stay.
The Virtual Ward Service, a collaborative initiative between DBTH and Rotherham Doncaster and South Humber NHS Foundation Trust’s (RDaSH), is designed to cater to patients requiring regular monitoring and ongoing treatment, such as acute respiratory infections, chronic lung conditions, and those requiring intravenous antibiotics.
Successfully caring or 146 patients to-date, a referral is triggered by a Consultant within the Trust to the Virtual Ward, with appropriate care planning taking place prior to discharge to ensure that the patient can be appropriately monitored and treated at home. Daily visits are then undertaken by the Community Nursing Team at RDaSH, with support from a pharmacist and other health professionals, until the individuals stay on the Virtual Ward comes to an end.
The service’s impact is expected to grow further in the near future, particularly during the challenging winter months when the team aims to care for 300 patients concurrently, alleviating pressures on bed capacity at Doncaster Royal Infirmary and creating much-needed space for those needing urgent and emergency care.
Currently extending its services to Respiratory, Frailty, Delirium, Acute Medicine, and Gastroenterology specialties, the Virtual Ward Team are hoping to develop further, with plans underway to include additional specialities, such as Orthopaedics, Colorectal, Stroke, Heart Failure and Infection Management and Diabetes, amongst others, in the coming months.
Mandy Tyrrell, Lead for the Virtual Ward, shared her insights on the transformative impact of the service: “The Virtual Ward is a testament to our commitment to innovation and patient-focused care. By working closely with our community partners, we’re empowering patients to receive the care they need in the familiar surroundings of their homes. Our holistic approach not only ensures medical treatment but also promotes comfort and convenience during what can be challenging times.”
Patient feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, underscoring the success of the Virtual Ward Service. After each discharge from the virtual ward, patients receive a follow-up call from a team member to discuss their experience and gather insights for continuous improvement.
Patients will are, on average, admitted to the Virtual Ward for around eight days, with the longest recorded duration being 14 days. If a patient deteriorates during this time, a well-defined escalation process ensures seamless transition to in-hospital care. Additionally, patients requiring diagnostic procedures like X-rays can be referred directly, minimising the time spent within a hospital environment.
D Nick Mallaband, Acting Executive Medical Director at DBTH, expressed enthusiasm for the service’s achievements, stating: “The Virtual Ward Service represents a new era in patient care. By providing specialised treatment and support within patients’ homes, we’re enhancing their quality of life and easing the strain on hospital resources. This is a testament to our commitment to delivering innovative, patient-centered care and I look forward to service developing in the future.”