Global technology company Healthy.io launched the first use of their innovative wound care app in Wales, allowing patients to have their wounds assessed and monitored from the comfort of their own home.
The eight-month project, rolled out in Swansea Bay University Health Board across Swansea Bay and Neath Port Talbot, was financed by Welsh Government’s Digital Solutions Fund (DSF) that was coordinated by Digital Health Ecosystem Wales (DHEW).
Wound care services account for a significant amount of NHS Wales’ annual budget, costing £330 million, which is 6% of its total. Improperly assessing wounds can also lead to unnecessary follow up visits and outpatient appointments, causing capacity issues and delays for patients accessing services.
Kate Coombs, former Head of Programme Delivery at Life Sciences Hub Wales, said:
“Digital Wound Management can help improve patient experience and inform treatment whilst working towards a more streamlined and consistent process for clinical staff and healthcare systems. We are delighted to have facilitated the initiation of the first pilot of this pioneering digital tool in Wales run by Healthy.io and Swansea Bay University Health Board.”
