The Holdforth unit, traditionally a rehabilitation unit for patients who have had care in the University Hospital of North Tees, has undergone a transformation.
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the unit became a community hub from where patients are treated in the community, either in their own homes or in care homes.
Patients are now only invited into the unit when the treatment they need cannot be performed out of hospital.
Feedback has been extremely positive and patients are getting the care they need in the most appropriate place for them.
Due to the success of this initiative, the unit will continue to provide this new model of care to patients who are suitable. This new modern way of caring for patients is seen as the most appropriate for these patients. When it is safe to do so – evidence shows that patients have a more successful recovery when treated from the comfort of their own home.
In the majority of cases, the team’s experienced group of nurses, healthcare assistants and therapy staff are able to travel to patients and provide the same level of care they would have had in the hospital unit itself.
The most recent innovation has been the creation of the Home First team, offering enhanced care to patients up to 72 hours after they leave hospital. This is helping provide that additional care some patients need in those two to three days after leaving hospital. It is run in partnership with our experienced integrated discharge team and with our local council partners.
Contact
The Holdforth Unit
floor 1, main ward block
University Hospital of Hartlepool
Telephone
01642 382703