New Report Release Evaluating Virtual Wards.

News - 4 June 2024

Healthwatch Croydon, in collaboration with Healthwatch Wandsworth and the South West London coordination team, conducted groundbreaking research alongside the Health Innovation Network.

he joint project delves into the dynamics of virtual wards, shedding light on why individuals may decline admission and capturing general sentiments about this transformative model. With insights from 29 participants, our findings highlight positive attitudes toward virtual wards, emphasising the benefits of home-based care for patients with various health conditions. Uncover participants’ thoughts on the term ‘virtual wards,’ perceived benefits, and challenges.

Currently, virtual wards are in action in four separate wards namely Croydon, Merton and Wandsworth, Sutton and Kingston and Richmond. This evaluation covered Croydon, Merton and Wandsworth and interviewed those with long-term conditions.

Read the full report on our reports page>>>

You might also be interested in

Living with a respiratory condition in South West London: What matter most to patients - April 2019

As part of a Healthwatch England grant to support insight to help the development of the South West London Health and Care Plan, we spoke to respiratory patients in community settings in Croydon as well as outpatients in St Georges and St Helier hospitals. We spoke to over 40 patients in three days of research at six locations and presented their feedback at the South West London NHS |Clinical Conference last month.

Most patients would like swifter referrals, more information about the pathway process to diagnosis and beyond. They also welcome opportunities to be informed and self-manage their condition, avoiding the use of medication if possible and also would welcome non-medical support including community training and support.
Report