Video check-ups ‘future of care’

PATIENTS could be forced to have most of their medical treatment through ‘remote technologies’ including video calls by 030, according to a report.

A Scottish Government study into nursing includes plans for people to access care using ‘communication technologies rather than face to face’.

It is understood this would see nurses carrying out check-ups through video calling – with plans to include use of new technologies in nursing courses.

Despite fears this could be a way to ‘save cash and cut corners’ health chiefs insisted it would simply run alongside traditional services.

The Nursing 030 Vision looks at ways to encourage people into the profession, as well as how nursing will advance in the future.

It also highlights how technology may affect the profession, and says it is ‘likely’ that in the next 13 years this will play a crucial role in delivering care.

The report states: ‘It seems likely that as we move towards 030, the impact of technology on health and social care will be growing.

‘Many patients may well be accessing most of their treatment programmes at home through remote technologies rather than face to face.’

Scottish Labour health spokesman Anas Sarwar said: ‘Any potential innovation is worth consideration, but the SNP has persistently let staff and patients down. Nicola Sturgeon has left NHS staff overworked and under-resourced.’ Scottish Conservative health spokesman Miles Briggs said: ‘Most people would accept that, by

030, remote care will be safer and more feasible.

‘However, it is critical this approach isn’t pursued at the expense of patient safety.

‘We cannot become too dependent on this new-age strategy in a bid to save cash and cut corners.’