An NHS trust in Leicester is using a virtual ward for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients. Utilising remote patient monitoring through the Clinitouch platform to safely discharge patients from the hospital and monitor them at home.

The virtual ward was put in place after the success of remote patient monitoring of COPD patients in the community, as well as the COVID-19 virtual ward. The trust realised that this approach could also be applied to COPD patients admitted to hospital with an exacerbation of their COPD and that they could be safely discharged and recover at home.

Aims & Objectives

• To enable a safe and earlier supported discharge from hospital
• To provide patient centered care for COPD patients
• To avoid hospital re-admission for COPD patients
• To empower patients to self-manage their condition at home

How it works

• Patient - Referred by hospital clinician providing patient meets referral criteria. Patient is given access to Clinitouch and remote monitoring equipment. At home, patient answers health questions and takes vital sign readings on Clinitouch.
• Clinitouch - The platform has unique algorithms that automatically analyse and risk-score the data. It will highlight when any patient moves outside the agreed parameters.
• Respiratory Specialist Team - Remote monitor COPD patients using the information the patients submit on Clinitouch. If patient is flagged amber or red on Clinitouch interventions are made.

Expected Outcomes

• Reduction of length of stay in hospital
• Prevent hospital re-admissions
• Improved patient self-management and knowledge of their condition - COPD education resources available on the Clinitouch platform

Dr Noel O’Kelly - Medical Director at Spirit Health, comments:

“Good evidence has shown that COPD patients can be safely and effectively managed at home through remote monitoring.

"Especially as they require quick access to healthcare due to the variable nature of the condition.

"Recognising the benefits of assisted discharge and remote monitoring, the implementation of the COPD virtual ward helps to safely discharge patients and support their recovery at home.”