Issue - meetings

The Board received an update on the Telehealthcare Strategy, which was attached to the report as an appendix.

By way of introduction Members were advised that the development of technology was affecting and extending the way care could be delivered in the health and social care arena.  As the population was ageing there was a significant strain on healthcare resources, with an increasing number of people affected by long term chronic conditions. 

The report discussed the unsustainability of the situation and the potential use of hi-tech home healthcare solutions which would support people to live at home or in extra care housing schemes.

Members commented that this type of technology would provide people with long term health conditions the security of knowing that they would be remotely monitored in their own homes.  It was noted that patients’ health issues differed and therefore individuals could access certain parts on the Telehealthcare service to suit their illness.  It was commented that there were pockets of deprivation that existed in Halton and this may hinder the availability of the technology to some people.

RESOLVED: That the Board notes the contents of the report and Telehealthcare Strategy.