On 12 March 2024, Clint Schick, Chief Executive at Strata Health UK, took the stage at Digital Health Rewired, presenting on the critical need for streamlined patient communication and management across NHS integrated care systems (ICSs). With over 20 years of experience in system flow navigation, he shared insights into how Strata Health’s innovative solutions are improving patient transitions across health and social care settings.
Streamlining Patient Communication and Management
The presentation began by outlining Strata Health’s journey, which originated in Canada and has since expanded globally, with notable partnerships in the United States, England, and New Zealand. Clint introduced the audience to Strata Health’s logic model, emphasizing the complexity of patient transitions and the necessity for efficient coordination across the care continuum.
At the heart of Strata Health’s approach lies the optimisation of patient transitions to ensure they receive care in the most appropriate setting. Clint highlighted the challenges facing healthcare systems, particularly in England, where a significant number of patients remain in hospitals despite no longer meeting the criteria to reside. This not only poses a financial burden but also raises concerns about patient well-being, especially for those requiring palliative care.
To address these challenges, Clint proposed a two-pronged strategy: reducing the inflow of patients into hospitals and enhancing the outflow to alternative care settings. Drawing an analogy to a wash basin, he explained that simply adding more resources to hospitals is insufficient. Instead, the focus should be on redirecting patients to the appropriate level of care, thereby preventing overcrowding and improving resource allocation.
Two compelling case studies were shared to illustrate Strata Health’s impact in facilitating patient transitions. The first case study highlighted the automation of mental health referrals in East Lancashire, resulting in improved access to care and reduced pressure on emergency departments. The second case study showcased the effectiveness of the Trusted Assessor system in streamlining discharge processes and fostering collaboration among healthcare teams.
Central to Strata Health’s approach are three key elements:
- AI-Enabled Algorithms: Strata Health employs algorithms that consider not only clinical needs but also patient preferences and geographic factors to optimise placement across the continuum.
- Capacity Management: By providing real-time data on community capacity, Strata Health ensures that patient transfers are informed by actual availability rather than outdated information.
- Care Transition Monitoring: Strata Health’s platform enables transparent monitoring of care transitions, ensuring accountability and facilitating communication with patients and their families.
Clint emphasized the importance of data visualisation through dashboards, enabling healthcare professionals to make informed decisions and track patient progress effectively.
Watch the recording: