An east Midlands NHS trust has created a remote monitoring ward for patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) – one of the leading causes of stroke in the UK.
The University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust scheme is one of the first of its kind in the UK.
The scheme received £274,000 in funding from NHS England’s Transformation Directorate (formerly NHSX.)
The project will provide 120 virtual beds to patients with the potentially deadly heart condition.
Professor Andre Ng, consultant cardiologist and electrophysiologist at University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust, said:
“This is a glimpse into the future of care for patients with atrial fibrillation.
“This brand-new service gives patients the opportunity to be managed and recuperate in their own homes whilst their heart rhythm settles back to normal but with the peace of mind that they’re still being monitored by specialist clinicians.”
Patients have already been enrolled on a pilot scheme, with specialist equipment monitoring their heart rate, blood pressure and oxygen levels.
Meanwhile, an electrocardiogram (ECG) keeps track of the patient’s heart rhythm, providing clinicians with a detailed reading.
The My Dignio app automatically and securely transmits patient data to the hospital, where it can be remotely monitored by a clinician.
Atrial Fibrillation (AF) is the most common type of heart rhythm disorder and is a factor in up to one in five strokes in the UK..
It is also linked to heart failure, depression, dementia and poor quality of life.
Sue Armstrong and clinical research fellow Dr Ahmed Kotb, Professor Ng, added:
“We’ve been running the pilot for six weeks – we have already received great feedback from the patients treated and have successfully managed patients with reduced hospital stay and avoided admission/readmissions.
“We’re really pleased that our work is recognised with the Digital Health Partnership award and proud that Leicester is leading the way on this.”
