Wirral University Teaching Hospital's Digitally Supported Arthroplasty Team Shortlisted as Finalists in prestigious HSJ Digital Awards

A team at Wirral University Teaching Hospital have been announced as finalists in the national HSJ Digital Awards for a transformative project enabling knee and hip surgery patients to monitor their progress using a smartphone.

 

The Team has been recognised in the coveted category of ‘Improving Out of Hospital Care through Digital’. Since the Service was launched as a pilot in September 2022, it has revolutionised the delivery of care for patients undergoing elective hip and knee surgery, known as arthroplasty. It has helped to reduce waiting times and the patients’ length of stay in hospital.

 

Mr Nigel Donnachie, Orthopaedic Surgeon at Wirral University Teaching Hospital, said: "The introduction of our Digitally Supported Arthroplasty Service has been transformative. It has not only improved communication between patients and our care team but has also streamlined our services, leading to better patient outcomes and experiences throughout their arthroplasty journey."

 

Leveraging a user-friendly smartphone application and a web-based platform, the Service provides patients with comprehensive information and facilitates ongoing monitoring of their progress, including digital consultations.

 

The Service has succeeded in standardising information delivery, reducing waiting times, and minimising unnecessary hospital visits. It has also contributed to a notable decrease in the average length of hospital stay post-procedure by two days.

 

The HSJ Digital Awards spotlight pioneering initiatives that use digital technology to enhance patient care and drive healthcare innovation. This category, ‘Improving Out of Hospital Care through Digital’, celebrates projects that empower patients, improve access to care, and enable healthcare professionals to deliver high-quality services beyond hospital walls.

 

Rose Finley, Nurse Consultant for Trauma and Orthopaedics at Wirral University Teaching Hospital, said: "Being shortlisted for the HSJ Digital Awards is a testament to the dedication and innovation of our Digitally Supported Arthroplasty Service. Our mission has always been to enhance patient care through digital solutions, and this recognition reaffirms our commitment to improving outcomes for our patients."

 

Janelle Holmes, Chief Executive at Wirral University Teaching Hospital, commended the team's dedication to innovation and added: "The Digitally Supported Arthroplasty Service has demonstrated exceptional dedication and creativity in using digital technology to improve patient care. Their initiative aligns with our Trust’s commitment to delivering high-quality, patient-centred care, and we are incredibly proud of their achievements."

 

The recognition by the HSJ Digital Awards underscores the Trust’s commitment to innovation and excellence in patient care. Winners of the HSJ Digital Awards will be announced at a prestigious ceremony later this year.

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