NHS North East London will use screening technology to help save 26,673 unplanned bed days in its hospitals across the three years of the programme.
NHS North East London is using AI screening technology to identify patients at high risk of needing unplanned emergency care. The new three-year programme has been launched in collaboration with AI-powered prediction and prevention software Health Navigator and academic health science centre UCLPartners to provide preventative care for patients with long-term conditions.
“More than 15 million people in England live with one or more long-term conditions, accounting for 50% of all GP appointments, 64% of outpatient visits, and over 70% of inpatient bed days,” said Paul Gilluley, chief medical officer at NHS North East London.
The new approach, he continued, represents “a landmark step” in using technology for preventative care to support patients before they reach crisis points.
Forecasting models estimate that the programme will save 26,673 unplanned bed days in North East London hospitals across the three years of the programme, with an anticipated reduction of 13,000 A&E attendances a year.
Supported by the largest randomised controlled trial to date on AI-assisted preventative care, the initiative has shown significant impact when piloted in Staffordshire. Notable results include a 46% reduction in men over 75, a 34% reduction in emergency attendances and a 25% reduction in bed days as well as a 26% reduction in GP referrals to secondary care.
Waltham Forest first
Waltham Forest will be the first area to receive this new initiative through Barts Health NHS Trust and Barking, Havering and Redbridge University Hospitals NHS Trust.
“This project provides a template for how the NHS can use modern technology to deliver predictive, proactive and preventive care that is customised for local communities and prioritises those most in need of our help,” said Chris Laing, chief executive officer of UCLPartners.
There are plans to expand across North East London in the coming weeks. The AI technology and clinical coaching will then be implemented throughout the rest of North East London in the coming months.
