Apps for AHPs
An evaluation of Allied Health Professionals’ use of
iPads for a variety of clinical specialties within NHS
Fife
Background, preparation & pilot
• More detail on our poster or ask us!
• 2012/13 Scottish Government funding to support the
increased use of mobile devices in community health services
• Several NHS Fife AHP services successful in their bid for
iPads - combination of 3G and wi-fi only devices
• Lots of prep work with e-Health team
• Main aim of trial was to explore a range of applications and to
determine whether they added value to service delivery.
• Data we are presenting is a combination of the pilot project &
new uses in the last 9 months
“SAFE”
• Took video footage of person eating & drinking to
share with SLT colleague – allowed triage without
a further visit
• Pharmacist scanned & emailed prescription
change to GP immediately – medication error
much less likely
• Guided access function – service users can only
access the app being used
“SAFE”
• Translation app for patient with limited English
ensured accuracy of information
• Use of Cisco Jabber being trialled by paediatric
OT - Allows therapist and support workers to call
each other from different locations to seek
guidance
“EFFECTIVE”
• Checking emails or writing letters in car during
unexpected gap in the day – less mileage & better use of
time
• Taking unplanned Photographs for assessment or
personalised programmes saves an extra visit
• Check equipment store for stock levels & order in house
while measurements available
“EFFECTIVE”
Bethany’s story
“I asked my OT for advice about some small
aids I wanted to buy to help me around
the house. Because she had her 3G iPad
with her she was able to do an internet
search and talk me through my options
there and then. It was great this could be
done immediately and I got my equipment
ordered soon after”
“PERSON CENTRED”
• Using ipad games that can be played with
a sibling makes engagement in rehab
more likely & continued at home
• Use of 3D anatomy app to discuss with patient
and carer about their health problem – increases
understanding so increases likelihood of
following advice
• Choosing own pictures for Accessible
Information ensures the patient
understands it fully & improves
engagement
“PERSON CENTRED”
Rachel’s story
“I liked it when my physio took a
video of me walking, then played
it back to me. It helped me to
understand what I was doing
wrong and why it was making me
sore. My walking is much better
now that I’m aware of how to
correct it”
“PERSON CENTRED”
• Use of relaxation apps during pain programme
means patients can download same on their own
phones & ipads later
• Using video footage to give feedback on
progress increases motivation –
particularly good for reflecting slow
progress over long periods
Challenges we faced!
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Logging on difficulties – need to be in NHS wifi zone
Inconsistent network reception in some geographical areas
Difficulties of switching iPad use between multiple users
Confusion between network passwords and log-ins vs
device passcode
Automatic deletion of iPad contents after several failed login attempts
Short default time on screenlock – impact on patients
Unable to print from ipad – rely on emailing documents
Certain files wont open on ipad e.g. embedded documents
Some useful features disabled by e-Health because of
security concerns e.g. face time
Cost Savings & Efficiencies
• Wifi devices have no ongoing cost just initial outlay
However……
• lots of the examples given relied on having 3G
enabled device
• Current 3G contracts are £4.50 pcm per device
• 1 business journey of 20 miles costs £11.20
• 1 hour of a band 6 costs approximately £15
Preventing extra home visits or using unexpected time
gaps efficiently, saves money and frees up
professionals time to use with another patient
Conclusion
Data from our pilot and our experience so far,
suggests iPads (or similar mobile devices) have an
important role to play in improving the efficiency
and cost effectiveness of working practices,
increasing patient safety and enhancing the patient
experience during their rehabilitation journey
Future plans
• Developing postural advice for use of ipads
• Developing guidance on ‘screen time’ for patients
• Sharing information about accessories
• Sharing information about useful apps
• Further development of Jabber for communication
purposes
Thank you for listening!
Questions
Amanda Leech
Physiotherapy Manager
Learning Disabilities & Chronic Pain services
Lynebank Hospital
Dunfermline
01383 565253
[email protected]