Hi-Tech referrals to cut nurse's paperwork and improve access for patients with diabetes.

Date published: 13 June 2008

A Bury-based diabetes nurse has welcomed a new ‘on-line’ referral system for patients in the four hospitals run by Pennine Acute Trust.

The system covers inpatients who are referred by staff to the specialist services. Previously, wards and departments used a range of different methods such as email, telephone and fax.

But the introduction of a new intranet referral form means that all four hospitals now have the same system to follow.

It is hoped that the move will streamline the system, and ensure that patients get the care they need as quickly as possible, which will help them avoid being stuck in hospital when they could have been fit for discharge.

The project has been led by the specialist diabetes nurses working for the Trust, and supported by other staff, including those from Information Management and Technology (IM&T).

Gemma Allen, diabetes nurse based at Bury’s Fairfield General Hospital, said: “Nursing staff already have plenty of paperwork to deal with so we are simply trying to make referrals as quick and easy as possible. It only takes a minute or two to complete the online form, which is self-explanatory.”

Janet Wild, diabetes nurse based at North Manchester General Hospital, commented: “The referrals have already started coming through and the early signs are encouraging.

“As nursing staff become more aware of the new system, we hope it will improve the promptness of referrals, therefore preventing delays in discharge and prolonged lengths of stay for patients.”

Gemma added: “A lot of hard work has gone in to get this system up and running. We would particularly like to thank the IM&T team for their support and perseverance.”