NHS Direct to make a difference to Newham residents with long term conditions

NHS Direct is delighted to be part of the successful bid that will significantly improve the lives of Newham residents coping with long term conditions (LTCs) such as: diabetes, coronary heart disease, hypertension and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD).

The Newham project is just one of three locations in England to share £12m to demonstrate the benefits of a telecare and telehealth programme.

NHS Direct will be helping LTC sufferers live independent healthy lives by reducing complications and sudden deteriorations in conditions that result in them having to go to A&E or be admitted to hospital.

The programme combines a telecare package of electronic sensors that detect flood, smoke, heat and movement, or lack of it, and a button to call for help and a telehealth package of devices for monitoring vital signs like blood sugar levels, pulse, temperature, blood pressure, body weight, oxygen saturation levels and peak flow readings.

The telecare package keeps an electronic eye on people at risk, for instance, of falling or epileptic fits, and alerts Newham’s control centre, which can call in help and emergency services if necessary.

NHS Direct healthcare professionals will monitor the vital signs from the telehealth devices and can alert patients with any concerns. The local GP surgery can also monitor the patient remotely. NHS Direct will also provide regular ongoing healthcare advice and support to help patients manage their long term conditions at home or at work.

Dr Mike Sadler, Acting Chief Executive of NHS Direct said: "I am delighted that we have been successful in Newham, and look forward to the development opportunities this will offer NHS Direct, our partners and patients.

Our experience of supporting patients with long term conditions demonstrates that we can improve people's quality of life, helping them to live in their own homes and feel more in control and involved in decisions about healthcare."

For further information, please visit:
www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk

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