Quick Overview
The South Tyneside and Sunderland NHS Foundation Trust has initiated a pilot program aimed at improving digital access for kidney patients. This initiative is designed to help patients connect online and access vital health information more conveniently.
Key Features of the Pilot Program
- Launch Details: The program began in late November 2024 at the Renal Unit of Sunderland Royal Hospital and will run for 12 months.
- Tablet Distribution: Four patients are the first recipients of tablets, which they can use at home to access health information, shop, learn, and stay connected with family.
- Focus on Accessibility: The project targets individuals who lack access to digital devices, aiming to bridge the digital divide.
Background and Goals
Dr. Mustafa Javaid and clinical director Sid Ahmed initiated this project following a study that assessed patients’ online access. Dr. Javaid expressed hope that this pilot would pave the way for a larger initiative to enhance patient education and health management.
Patient Benefits
- Patients will have access to a new online hub featuring information on home therapies, inpatient care, kidney transplant processes, and living with kidney disease.
- Tablets will also be available within the unit for patients undergoing treatment, allowing them to access educational materials during lengthy dialysis sessions.
Funding and Support
The pilot has received funding from Health Innovation North East and North Cumbria (HI NENC), with additional support from various organizations, including the North East and North Cumbria Integrated Care Board, Ability Net, The Good Things Foundation, and Sunderland City Council.
Future Aspirations
Leanne Maitland from HI NENC emphasized the importance of digital access for vulnerable individuals, stating that this initiative is part of a broader vision to establish a regional public sector digital hub in the North East and North Cumbria.
Related Developments
In a related advancement, Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust is utilizing AI technology that can predict kidney failure significantly faster than human analysts.