In a major development for patient-centred healthcare, Innovate proudly announces the latest improvements to South Warwickshire University NHS Foundation Trust's (SWFT) Patient Portal.

The Patient Portal now has seamless integration with the NHS app, facilitating direct access to appointment and clinical letters, notifications, and alerts through the application. A new standout feature is the ability for patients to conveniently complete pre-consultation questionnaires via the NHS App, promising more streamlined and patient-friendly healthcare experiences.

Leading on project management and delivery for the Patient Portal, Innovate has transformed the digital landscape of outpatient care for Warwickshire residents, highlighting our unwavering commitment to advancing healthcare technology and ensuring a patient-centric approach.

Mashuk Khan, Consultant Oncoplastic Breast Surgeon at SWFT and Deputy Chief Clinical Informatics Officer, said: “I like to think of the portal as the digital front door to the hospital, which allows patients to engage with us at a time that’s convenient for them.

“We all juggle busy schedules, and now more than ever, people want the same digital convenience they enjoy in their everyday lives to extend to their healthcare too.

“I see the portal as a fundamental tool that enables patient-centred and accessible healthcare by empowering the patient to prioritise what’s most important to them – their health. I extend my sincere appreciation to the Innovate team for their pivotal role in advancing the Patient Portal at SWFT.”

Since its phased go-live beginning in 2021, the SWFT Patient Portal has been instrumental in enabling patients, placing them firmly in control of their outpatient care. The portal is available to all SWFT patients aged 18 and over, allowing them to securely access hospital letters, documentation, and outpatient appointment information.

A Glimpse into the Future for GEH

In further news for Warwickshire residents, Innovate has successfully secured funding for George Eliot Hospital NHS Trust (GEH) to develop their own Patient Portal, marking a notable milestone in advancing healthcare accessibility. The recent pilot launch in mid-March 2024, focusing on Oral Surgery and Ear, Nose & Throat (ENT) specialties, signifies more than just a technological advancement. It underscores Innovate's commitment to elevating the patient experience and fostering innovative solutions for our clients.

Mena Kumari, Senior Digital Health Nurse at GEH expressed excitement about the future stating, "The Patient Portal stands as a testament to our commitment to patient-centric care at GEH. Looking forward, we aim to go beyond convenience, offering patients tools that empower them to actively engage in their healthcare journey and make informed decisions.

“As a clinician, I look at the Patient Portal as more than just a digital tool; it's a facilitator of a more connected, efficient, and patient-focused healthcare experience. A big thank you to the Innovate team for their instrumental role in driving this initiative forward!”

Innovate is leading the phased rollout at GEH, starting with allowing patients to view appointment letters. Subsequent phases and ongoing development will further enrich functionality and elevate the overall patient experience. Following a review of the initial pilot, the portal will be gradually expanded to include other outpatient specialties in the coming months.