Blog- Changes to NHS Admissions cut costs

posted on 15 Dec 2011

Would changes in hospital admissions benefit the community and the older generation?

Health and Social care agencies in South-end have been reacting to emergency calls differently to help reduce the amount of people admitted into hospital. It has been agreed by experts that the amount of older people admitted into hospital is too large and is the biggest long term challenge faced by the NHS.

Historically people were admitted into hospital when a call was placed, not only does this mean large numbers of over 65’s who call in are admitted into hospital but in some cases a longer recovery period. Some counties have increasing numbers of these calls. Essex have been adopting an approach which sees an Emergency care practitioner visit the person in question who identifies the issues and also calls into action the relevant teams to assist.

In most cases this also cuts the time taken to help resolve and rectify any health issues. One call had the problem diagnosed and a team arrive within 20 minutes.  To help initiate this, voluntary sectors along with service users were asked to redesign services to help the older population; it was also tailored to help reduce the costs on hospital and residential care. Day assessments, specialist teams along with other practices help support the patient and over all prevent readmission.

GP’s have said this will really make a difference, not only with admissions but also with the forms and contact numbers required to assist people in the past. Along with being asked if they are satisfied with the care provided people are also explained why they were not admitted into hospital so that they have a full understanding. This approach has not only saved 756 out of 966 calls in Essex this year being admitted but also aimed to save £3.8m in costs.

There are also aims of setting up telehealth devices, which monitor people’s health on a daily basis through electronic sensors. These results are transmitted to healthcare professionals and aim to reduce A&E visits by 15%, emergency hospital visits by 20% and mortality rates b 45% for those with long term conditions.

Changes such as these will be necessary for NHS reform and also help with improved communication throughout the different sectors including GP referrals and admissions into residential and nursing homes.