Doncaster and Bassetlaw Teaching Hospitals (DBTH) alongside colleagues from the Yorkshire and Humber Academic Health Science Network (AHSN), have been nominated for a prestigious Health Service Journal (HSJ) award.
Amidst strong competition, the two organisations have been shortlisted for ‘HealthTech Partnership of the Year’, in recognition of how they have worked together to develop a new digital system that, when in operation, improves the way in which the Emergency Department (ED) runs.
‘SmartER’ enables visitors to complete a short, electronic form whilst they are waiting to be seen following a visit to the Emergency Department. Making more productive use of this valuable time, the questionnaire gives patients the opportunity to describe their ailment or injury, as well as any other relevant information, prior to seeing a clinician. By utilising the ground-breaking system in this way, they are able to contribute to their own health records, during a period when they would usually be unoccupied.
Prior to the implementation, a large portion of clinical time was taken up by doctors asking generic questions and gathering basic details. Developed with a clear understanding of the pressures that are faced by emergency departments across the country, the application seeks to increase efficiency by engaging and informing patients in the lead up to their consultation.
Under the new system, kiosks are located in the waiting area and visitors can use these to record their ‘’story’’ directly– without risk for any miscommunication. Not only does this improve the accuracy of their notes, but it also increases the quality of communication between them and the medical team. Furthermore, whilst patients are making use of the digital platform, they will also be given the option to supply their contact details, so that they can receive bespoke leaflets or educational videos based on their answers to the questionnaire. For example, they might be given ‘’stop smoking’’ advice or materials that explain how to perform first aid on head wounds.
The system has been trialled mainly at Doncaster Royal Infirmary, with successful implementation periods as well as further iterations on its design. As such, the Health Service Journal (HSJ) has chosen to acknowledge the hard work of the project team, by nominating them for the Health Tech award.
Speaking about this, Dr Amjid Mohammed, Consultant at DBTH, said: ‘’It is extremely rewarding to see the HSJ recognise the impact that our system has had. Saving time, letting patients get more involved with their own treatment and reducing variations in medical records, it’s making a real difference and other organisations are starting to take note. In fact, it’s not just hospitals that are showing interest, as we are looking to expand SmartER’s functionality so that it can be incorporated into care homes and even prisons. With this and other innovations now in the pipeline, we are confident that our application will continue to transform the way that we think and communicate about healthcare. ’’
Held at the Park Plaza Westminster on 27 February, the HSJ partnership awards will provide a great opportunity for influential figures to unite and celebrate the achievements of their industry peers.