BTS Viewpoint on virtual wards
Many respiratory colleagues are being asked to support or set up virtual wards locally. Virtual wards are seen as one practical solution to help the NHS cope with its current shortage of beds. Alongside frailty, virtual wards dedicated to looking after people with acute respiratory infection (ARI) are being widely developed in England.
BTS members have been involved in discussions about virtual wards from the outset. This Viewpoint considers some of the key issues and the benefits of virtual wards, highlights where unanswered questions remain, and responds to concerns expressed by some BTS members.
The BTS Viewpoint on virtual wards is available here.
Links
- Making the most of virtual wards, including Hospital at Home Making the most of virtual wards, including Hospital at Home pulls together summaries of existing virtual ward guidance in an easy-to-read, concise format. Produced by NHS England’s Getting It Right First Time (GIRFT) and Virtual Ward programmes.
- NHS England virtual wards: resources, guidance and networks Guidance, resources and opportunities to learn from others delivering virtual wards, will support integrated care systems (ICSs) and service providers to establish or expand virtual wards in their areas.
- NHS England Delivery plan for recovering urgent and emergency services
- NHS England: Supporting clinical leadership in virtual wards – A guide for integrated care system clinical leaders