Extension of digital health assessments

HYWEL Dda University Health Board has extended its digital assessments online service for suitable patients using its lymphoedema services in Carmarthenshire, Ceredigion and Pembrokeshire.

Digital assessments help patients to inform their clinical team about their health in between appointments and are currently used successfully within the health board’s heart function service, trauma and orthopaedics and eye care services.

Suitable patients receiving care from the lymphoedema service will receive a text message or email with an nhs.my link to a digital assessment form with questions about symptoms, physical health and quality of life.

Lymphoedema is a chronic condition that causes swelling in the body’s tissues. It can affect any part of the body, but usually develops in the arms or legs.

The team responsible for the patient’s care will be able to review the information provided in the digital assessment, allowing them to check on the patient’s progress and understand their health in between appointments.

The information provided will be stored securely within the patient’s record.

The health board said patients will work in partnership with their therapist to manage the lymphoedema and that the digital assessment is a fundamental part of that partnership.

Dr Phil Kloer, the health board’s deputy chief executive and medical director, said: “It is fantastic that we are able to extend the use of digital assessments for suitable patients under the care of our lymphoedema service.

“Digital assessments do not replace clinical care.

“The information provided through this secure platform will provide regular monitoring of symptoms at home to help us better understand a patient’s health and make the best use of the time spent with their clinical team.”