Virtual Ward

Improving the experience of our patients is at the heart of what we do, so those who require monitoring but are otherwise well enough to go home can, if suitable, choose to be transferred to our Virtual Ward.

It means they can return home days or even weeks earlier to recover in the comfort of their own surroundings, sleeping in their own bed, eating their own food and in the company of their family, friends and pets.

Our Virtual Ward patients remain under the care of our doctors, nurses and other health professionals and wear a small, easily-rechargeable device that’s attached to their arm by a secure strap and enables their condition to be monitored remotely.

Observations are tailored to their needs and include blood oxygen levels, pulse and blood pressure, with alerts if there’s a deterioration in their condition so they can be attended to immediately. They can also receive other treatments, such as oxygen, as well as return to hospital for blood tests or IV therapy knowing they’re supported while at home.

Virtual Ward nurses stay in close contact, with daily phone or video calls, and patients are given a number to ring at any time if they have any questions or concerns or simply need reassurance.

The Virtual Ward can accept oncology and palliative care patients, as well as those with a wide range of other conditions, including long Covid, and enables patients to be monitored at home prior to surgery.