A new 'Virtual Ward' model has been established at East Cheshire NHS Trust to provide added assurance to patients who have tested positive for COVID-19.

The aim of the service is to provide at-home oxygen monitoring for eligible patients who are recovering from the illness at home, or outside of hospital.

The Trust says this new model will help prevent deterioration and provide them with rapid access to clinical support if their oxygen levels drop below their baseline measurement. It will also potentially avoid the need for further supportive therapy such as ventilation.

Simon Goff, Chief Operating Officer at the Trust said, "We are delighted to be one of the first trusts in the North-West to introduce the 'Virtual Ward' service which provides an added element of reassurance for our patients that has not previously been available.

"Patients on the 'Virtual Ward' are given a pulse oximeter device to use at home. Every morning they receive a text message or phone call and respond with their daily oxygen measurements and pulse rate.

The 'Virtual Ward' team monitor all incoming results and contact patients directly if their results fall below their baseline measurement.

Patients will be discharged from the 'Virtual Ward' after 10 days, once their symptoms have improved.