Eras+

Business Challenges

Every year over 250,000 patients undergo major surgery in England and Wales. These patients are 30% more likely to suffer lung problems, resulting in increased length in hospital stay and reduced life expectancy.

We have partnered with Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust and TrusTech to develop the ERAS+ (Enhanced Recovery After Surgery) app. The app helps patients prepare for major surgery and recover more effectively after the surgery.

ERAS+ consists of a 6-step programme designed to prepare patients and their carers for every stage both pre and post-surgery and aims to help patients maximise their chances of a speedy recovery, minimising their hospital stay.

The major elements of ERAS+ include;

• A range of activities to support patients through every stage of their journey. This includes cardiovascular activity, muscle strengthening, nutritional support and lifestyle advice
• Respiratory bundles to reduce postoperative pulmonary complications (PPC) with the help of the chest training programme ICOUGH
• A record of patient outcomes after surgery

Our Solution

Following the proven success of the ERAS+ programme, it was then time to take it to the next level and create an on-the-go app that provides patients with a 24/7 support, guidance and information platform with clear, attainable goals in the road to recovery.

We use Integrated Smart Device Technology (ISDT®) to produce complete digital ecosystems. ISDT has proven successful with partners such as Salford Royal NHS Foundation Trust.

Using this ecosystem, we designed a tailored solution for patients working alongside ERAS+ specialists. The app includes an integrated system for clinicians to send bespoke recovery programmes to their patients and monitor activity. The app sends daily reminders and a regular progress update report for patients to stay on track with their progress before and after surgery.

Alongside the app, we developed a content management system (CMS) for clinicians to manage patient records and the ERAS+ programme. Clinicians are able to add activities (i.e. such as new exercise routines) to the various regimes within the programme.

Business Benefits

• The benefits of ERAS+:
• • Improving health, wealth and wellbeing
  • Increasing independence and reducing demand on public services
  • Developing community services to keep people out of hospital
  • Supporting people to return to work, enabling more families to be economically active.

• The results include:
  • A 50% reduction in PPC rates following surgery
  • An average reduction in length of stay of 3 days
  • Savings of at least £500,000 per year.

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