Implementation of Enhanced Health for Care Homes : PCN Network conference session summary
Catch up on the talking points at this PCN Network virtual conference session.
Chair and panellists
- Emma Self, Delivery and Policy Lead for EHCH, NHS England and NHS Improvement
- Will Tate, Primary Care Strategy Team, NHS England and NHS Improvement
- Dr Reva Gudi, GP Partner, Pine Medical Centre
- Dr Pramit Patel, PCN Network Clinical Director Board Member; Clinical Director, East Surrey PCN
- Dr Zubair Ahmed, Chief Executive, Arc Health
Key points
Relationships
Good clear points of contact and working relationships between multidisciplinary team (MDT) members are key to preventing unplanned admissions. Communication with practices within the PCN is also crucial, ensuring feedback on what’s happening and which patients have been reviewed.
Consistency
Regular, frequent contact with a named person is helpful for both care home and PCN. For example, daily contact with a matron and weekly contact with GP. This can also help identify issues at an early stage.
Technology
Access to broadband, tablet devices, virtual consultations, virtual ward rounds and online care records can make a difference to the quality of care, especially in a pandemic. New tools can help carers to carry out examinations with support and guidance from a GP. Technology might be funded by practices, CCGs or NHSX. Arc can offer help and guidance.
Face to face vs virtual
Face to face remains the default but we now have a better understanding and ability to integrate new technology to support and augment face-to-face contact.
What does good look like in six years’ time?
Assessment in advance of moving to a care home followed by MDT review within a week. Then a personalised care and support plan is created with the patient, taking into account patient needs and including end-of-life plans. Strong interpersonal and trusting relationships are in place between the patient, the care home staff and the MDT. Duplication is minimised and the patient gets the right care from the right person at the right time.
Key quotes
"It’s imperative to deliver care in a caring and compassionate manner, adopting a proactive approach."
"The right care from the right person at the right time."
Question for consideration
- How best to engage CCGs in funding new technology?
