Transforming Elective Care with VHUK’s Perioperative Pathway Ecosystem

As the elective backlog slowly decreases but remains alarmingly high, the need for precise, real-time information has never been more critical.

In the current healthcare environment, where resources are stretched thin, optimising every aspect of patient care is essential. This is especially true in managing patients throughout their entire elective journey, from referral to discharge – a process that is complex, but not insurmountable.

Here at VitalHub UK (VHUK), we recognised the necessity of a comprehensive solution and took a step back to evaluate our growing portfolio of healthcare solutions. The result? Our innovative elective ecosystem, designed to offer a seamless experience, from the Integrated Care Board (ICB) to provider-led, real-time data, down to patients who are actively engaged in their care by submitting blood pressure readings or completing digital consent forms. Our ecosystem is built on the belief that no single entity can do it all; therefore, we partner with best-of-breed providers where necessary to ensure every aspect of the patient’s journey, from triage, to pre- and post-operative care, to virtual consultations, is covered.

What This Means for the Patient

For patients, this approach translates into a simplified, yet effective, way to manage their elective care journey. They are provided with a “single pane of glass” where all their needs, ranging from communication and appointments, to more clinical aspects like health questionnaires and educational materials, are met. Patients can track their progress, ask questions, and even share vital information with their caregivers, making it easier to stay in touch with their clinical team.

Moreover, the ecosystem empowers patients to engage in consultations from the comfort of their home or office, only visiting the clinic when necessary. By receiving timely nudges from the relevant clinical staff, be it a physiotherapist, consultant, or dietitian, patients remain informed about their position in the elective care pathway, significantly reducing the need to contact trusts for updates.

What This Means for the Clinician

Clinicians will find the VHUK perioperative pathway equally transformative. By offering a consolidated view of the patient’s journey, the system drastically reduces the administrative burden on healthcare professionals. This not only minimises clinical risks but also provides peace of mind to both clinicians and patients.

Importantly, the ecosystem enables clinicians to prioritise care based on clinical need, rather than adhering to rigid timelines (e.g., 6, 12, or 18 weeks). This flexibility ensures that resources are directed where they are most needed, enhancing patient outcomes and streamlining the care process.

What This Means for the Trust

For trusts, adopting VHUK’s perioperative pathway offers a strategic advantage in managing waiting lists and optimising resource allocation. The system’s “swim lane” approach to waiting lists helps identify when patients are ready for pre-operative assessments and surgery, ensuring that resources are used efficiently. Trusts gain real-time analytics across the elective pathway, enabling them to understand precisely where each patient stands in their pre-screening and prehabilitation process, ultimately improving surgical outcomes.

In essence, VHUK’s perioperative pathway ecosystem is a game-changer in managing elective care. By integrating cutting-edge technology with collaborative partnerships, we’re not just addressing the elective backlog – we’re transforming the way elective care is delivered, leading to better outcomes for patients, clinicians and healthcare providers alike, as well as helping to rewrite the stories that are changing patients’ lives.

For more information on our perioperative solutions please get in touch: ukgroup@vitalhub.com.