The AHSN Network is supporting healthcare systems to prepare for the expansion of virtual wards across England, a way of helping people to safely manage their care at home, rather than in hospital.
Virtual wards may make use of remote monitoring technology and apps, alongside care from community-based teams. The AHSN Network is working with NHS England and NHS Improvement, NHSX and other partners to help local Integrated Care Systems (ICSs) understand how they can best establish or expand virtual ward pathways for people with acute respiratory infection or those with frailty.
In 2020/21, AHSN-hosted Patient Safety Collaboratives supported the successful national roll-out of pulse oximeters in their local health and care systems, as part of the national COVID Oximetry @home and virtual ward models.
National Learning Network
These monthly webinars are open to any health and care professionals with an interest in the further development of virtual wards. Co-hosted by the AHSN Network, they will include a combination of practical experience from around England and national leaders, working to coordinate approaches. You will hear from colleagues around the country developing services and pathways, and from NHS England and NHS Improvement on the development of the latest national guidance.
Community of practice
This is an open group for people to discuss the current and latest challenges on the system. The group is open to healthcare professionals with an interest in the further development of virtual wards.
Further information is available in a dedicated online platform hosted on FutureNHS. It includes toolkits and a wealth of additional resources, including recordings of the learning network webinars.
If you are not already a member of FutureNHS, register here and then search for and request to join the ‘National Deterioration Forum’ workspace.