An innovative project to improve cardiology services has come out tops in the Forward Healthcare Awards 2021.
The Connected Health Network project, which we developed in partnership with the Meridian Health Group, is a new model of care in which GPs and hospitals work together as one clinical network.
This means that GPs no longer need to make a referral into a hospital.
Instead, they work directly with our specialists – who become an extended part of the GP practice/ network, to agree how we can safely deliver your care from your GP.
A shared admin team helps ensure a streamlined pathway for patients.
The project picked up the award in the early-stage pilot or early adopter of the year category.
Winning Cardiology service
Dr Simon Thackray, the lead cardiologist for the project, said: “This is such wonderful news to have been recognised at a national level. Everyone has worked so hard on this project, and the results speak for themselves – recognition at a national level for the innovative and integrated approach we have adopted.
“This news is a credit to all those who have persevered with the vision of ensuring we put our cardiology patients at the heart of how we provide their care. This project would not have been possible without the continued support and drive from our Meridian colleagues. It has been wonderful to showcase what we can do on a national platform.”
Alex Afifi, senior project manager added: “We are now working with other Primary Care Networks in the area to roll out the project, and there are plans to extend this approach in other specialties.”