Technology paves way for remote discussion
In a first for NHS Highland, the 30-inch touchscreen unit can be moved to patients’ bed sides because the WiFi-capability allows for portability and flexible use around the unit.
It is a valuable addition to other - less portable - VC units that are currently available at the Golspie hospital.
It has been funded by the Munro legacy – which was set up to assist people with palliative care illnesses - bequeathed to the Lawson Memorial Hospital by former patient Andrew Munro.
Lorraine Coe, NHS Highland’s Sutherland district manager, said: “The main function of the WiFi unit will be for people requiring in-patient care to video conference to consultants and other health and social care professionals in Inverness and further afield if required.
“It will save them from having to undertake challenging journeys to Raigmore, for example, or even across to the new NHS Near Me suite at the Lawson which will become operational in the autumn.
“The portable unit will also be a fantastic support to the team at the Cambusavie Unit. This is because it can now be used by the ward teams to link into staff meetings, training and huddles. Before that, the team had to leave the ward to use a VC unit.
Even though the VC unit has only been in place for one week, it has already prevented a trip to Raigmore Hospital for one individual.
“So on behalf of both patients and staff, we’d like to extend our grateful thanks to Andrew Munro’s family for their generous support.”