Thousands of hospital bed days have been saved.

East Cheshire NHS Trust is expanding its Virtual Wards programme, bringing hospital-level, consultant-led care to patients in their own homes.

The service currently operates 50 virtual beds, supporting patients across respiratory, frailty, and general medicine pathways.

Recent developments include the rollout of a shared acuity tool across Cheshire and Mersey, the addition of a palliative care pathway, and the launch of a new cardiology pathway.

This latest expansion enables patients with heart failure to receive IV diuretics at home, supporting those with complex needs more effectively.

Jane Watson, team leader for the Virtual Ward service at East Cheshire NHS Trust, said: "We're incredibly proud of how the Virtual Wards programme is evolving.

"It's not just about saving bed days, it's about giving patients the dignity and comfort of being treated at home, while still receiving the same level of care they would in hospital.

"The feedback from patients has been overwhelmingly positive, and we're excited to continue expanding the service to meet even more needs."

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Patient navigator Joseph Trajano, respiratory consultants Dr Marta Babores and Dr Thapas Nagarajan, Virtual Wards team leader Jane Watson, and Rachel Higham, clinical respiratory specialist practitioner (Credit: ECNHST)

Since its launch, the Virtual Wards programme has received 571 referrals, resulting in the saving of 5,406 bed days across the Trust.

What's more, 100% of patients who have used the service so far this year said they would recommend it to others.

According to the trust, patients cared for at home often experience faster recovery times, contributing positively to the health and wellbeing of the local population.

One family member, who has asked not to be named, shared their experience of the care their mother received.

They said: "My mum received care that was truly personal and dignified. She improved far more rapidly than she had on the ward because she was listened to and felt heard.

"The care was outstanding, and I believe this is the best service available for elderly patients."