The South West London Elective Orthopaedic Centre (SWLEOC), in partnership with Definition Health, is showcasing the potential of digital health solutions in the NHS by successfully implementing a remote surgical care pathway. This innovative approach has significantly improved patient safety, clinical efficiency, and environmental sustainability in post-operative care.
SWLEOC’s efforts have been recognised at the HSJ Patient Safety Awards 2024, where the centre won accolades for both the Virtual or Remote Care Initiative of the Year and the Safety Improvement through Technology Award. The centre also received a commendation for Patient Safety in Elective Recovery, highlighting its commitment to enhancing healthcare delivery through technology.
The awards were driven by findings from a recent study examining the benefits of a virtual ward, facilitated by Definition Health’s Definition Recovery platform. This platform provides a personalised recovery pathway that enhances both patient care and operational efficiency. Notable results from the study include:
- Remote Monitoring for Personalised Care: Patients reported their pain levels, functionality, and wound recovery via digital diaries, allowing clinical teams to monitor progress and respond to individual needs. This continuous engagement has played a crucial role in improving patient safety and satisfaction.
- Efficiency Gains: The Recovery solution has reduced consultant wait times from 16 weeks to 12 weeks, allowing for better resource allocation and faster follow-ups. The study indicated that 93% of patients were eligible for discharge to a Patient-Initiated Follow-Up (PIFU) pathway, saving 520 consultant clinic slots—equivalent to 34 half-day clinics over eight months.
- Improved Patient Safety: Infection rates for Total Hip Replacement (THR) and Total Knee Replacement (TKR) surgeries have declined, and readmission rates have remained below the national median, reflecting the effectiveness of the Recovery solution in identifying and managing complications early.
- Environmental Impact: The shift to remote monitoring has also yielded environmental benefits, with a reduction of 1,120 kg of carbon emissions—approximately 2 kg saved per patient—underscoring the dual advantages of patient safety and sustainability.
Patient feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing appreciations for the reassurance provided by remote monitoring. Staff members view the Recovery solution as a significant improvement, enhancing proactive and personalised care while improving overall patient safety.
Boudine Pearce, Strategic Lead for Elective Orthopaedic and Musculoskeletal Services at SWLEOC, noted: “Our collaboration with Definition Health has enabled us to develop a remote monitoring post-operative pathway that is much safer, more interactive, and efficient for patients. This two-way communication alleviates anxiety and ensures patients have access to the right clinician at the right time.”
SWLEOC’s success has attracted media attention, with national outlets like BBC News and ITV News highlighting the role of virtual wards in addressing pressing challenges within the NHS. The BBC featured SWLEOC’s initiative in its report, “Six NHS Schemes That Could Help Fix the Health Service,” while ITV News emphasised the benefits of remote monitoring in enhancing patient safety during recovery.
As the NHS looks to the future, the Darzi report has called for a significant shift towards digital transformation, identifying solutions like virtual wards and remote monitoring as critical for the system’s sustainability. SWLEOC’s experience serves as a blueprint for other healthcare providers aiming to modernise and optimise care delivery through digital innovations.
Sandeep Chauhan, CEO and Co-Founder of Definition Health, stated, “Our partnership with SWLEOC demonstrates the transformative power of digital health technology. As the NHS continues its digital journey, we are eager to assist more healthcare providers in leveraging these technologies for safer and more efficient patient care.” For more information on how Definition Health is shaping the future of surgical care through digital innovation, visit www.definitionhealth.co.uk
