Cup of coffee to keep problem patients out of A&E

Repeat visitors to A&E cost the health service millions every year but many only attend because of mental health or loneliness issues. One advanced paramedic in Blackpool had a brainwave after she realised just 23 patients were responsible for 703 A&E visits in three months. She created the High Intensity User plan, which involves a dedicated staff member meeting patients for coffee and a chat. The scheme also includes patient mentoring, one-on-one coaching and a number to call instead of 999 if patients feel in trouble. It led to a reduction of 90per cent in A&E attendances and 999 calls among the highest frequency users, and is now being rolled out across the country.