WTP7.06 Reimagining Complex Wound Care – A virtual approach. The outcomes & value of a multi-organisation ‘complex wound’ virtual ward (hospital at home) across an NHS region. A new ‘one team’ approach

Aims Patients with complex wounds often receive inequalities in community care, avoidable hospital admissions, delayed discharges, increased morbidity and mortality. A complex wound virtual ward (CwVw) was established to digitally unify multiple care providers across a whole system/region. Aiming to deliver safe, effective care of patients with the most complex of wounds that usually require inpatient support. Methods Service evaluation:Prospective cohort analysis of all patients admitted to the CwVw assessing quality of care, safety and cost/value.Rapid ethnography employing Translational Mobilisation Theory - assessing value of the CwVw. Reviewing how it delivers care differently for patients with complex wounds. Results 87 patients were admitted to the CwVw over 15 months: 56% early supported discharges and 44% admission avoidance. Median length-of-stay was 9 days. 30-day readmission rate was low (13.8%). 30-day mortality rate 5.7%. 356 hospital bed days saved equating to £89,000. The one-team approach delivered care by:Providing a single point of access for acute assessment/intervention – "no wrong door".Streamlining resources.Shared assessment and decision-making.Transparent monitoring of patient/wound trajectory.Enhancing a regional accountability structure. This was achieved in a culture of breaking down professional and organisational divisions, flexibility, psychological safety, finding pragmatic and creative solutions, and valuing individuals. Staff perceptions of value included improved wound healing and patient experience, and enhanced professional satisfaction, education and relationships. Conclusion The CwVw ‘one-team’ approach delivers high-quality, safe, individualised care to patients at home and demonstrates a model of team-working that brings significant value to patients, staff, and organisations.