A DIGITAL health history questionnaire used across Worcestershire’s hospitals, including the Alex, reducing the need for patients to visit hospital before their surgery has won a national award.
The synopsis iQ questionnaire was recognised in the deferred 2020 Building better healthcare awards, winning the ‘Best Example of Efficiencies’ category, whilst also receiving Highly Commended for the Best use of Technology (Acute Care).
The system aims to increase the Trust’s pre-operative capacity and enable patients to see the right nurse at the right time.
The questionnaire is sent electronically to patients who are awaiting elective surgery at the Alexandra, Kidderminster or Worcestershire Royal Hospitals, allowing them to complete it at home in their own time.
Around 1,000 patients a month will receive a link to complete the health questionnaire, with the results then sent to the pre-operative assessment department where staff can process patients based on the answers provided.
Whilst the initial roll out of the system started in January, the Covid-19 pandemic highlighted the importance of reducing face-to-face appointments where possible.
Rachel Foley, clinical benefits and change lead at the Trust, said: “We’re delighted to receive this award.
“We would like to thank the judging panel for recognising the dedication of our hard-working team in developing and evaluating a clinically lead digital innovation that can improve patient experience throughout our hospitals.
“Earlier pre-operative assessment interventions allow the team to identify patients at high risk of being unfit for their operation and intervene sooner and with more effective medical input to ensure they stand the very best chance of their surgery going ahead.”
On receiving the accolade, Vikki Lewis, chief digital officer at the Trust, said: “Synopsis iQ is another great example of how digital innovations within our organisation are having a profoundly positive impact on our patients, their families and their overall experience of care in our hospitals.”
