Healthwatch Shropshire Seeks Feedback on NHS Virtual Ward Care

Healthwatch Shropshire, in collaboration with the Shropshire Community Health NHS Trust, has initiated a survey aimed at gathering public feedback on the NHS Virtual Ward care model. This service allows patients who are stable enough to remain at home to receive essential clinical monitoring while recuperating in a familiar environment.

The Virtual Ward was launched locally in February 2023 as part of the NHS’s ten-year plan. It offers a unique approach to healthcare by enabling a dedicated team of doctors, nurses, and other professionals to connect with patients daily through a combination of home visits, telephone consultations, and digital monitoring technologies. This initiative ensures that individuals can rest and recover at home while still receiving high-quality medical attention.

According to Clair Hobbs, Director of Nursing and Clinical Delivery at Shropshire Community Health NHS Trust, over 9,857 people in Shropshire have benefited from the Virtual Ward since its introduction in August 2022. Hobbs emphasized the importance of working with Healthwatch Shropshire to gather independent feedback, stating, “Listening directly to patients and families will help us show the value of the Virtual Ward and inform the public about how this model of care is supporting people in their own homes.”

The aim of this survey is to collect real-life experiences from patients and their families, which will contribute to a better understanding of the service’s effectiveness and identify areas for improvement. Lynn Cawley, Chief Officer at Healthwatch Shropshire, highlighted the significance of public input, noting, “By sharing their views, people who have used the Virtual Ward can help shape how this service develops locally and ensure it truly meets the needs of our communities.”

Healthwatch Shropshire encourages anyone who has received care through the Virtual Ward or supported a loved one using the service to participate in the survey. Feedback will be instrumental in building a clear picture of how the Virtual Ward operates in Shropshire and its impact on patient care.

The survey will remain open for contributions, and those interested can complete it online. This initiative marks a proactive step in ensuring that healthcare services align with the needs of the community and continue to evolve based on the feedback of those they serve.