NHS Borders Covid Virtual Ward

That the Parliament welcomes the trialling by NHS Borders of a Covid Virtual Ward, from 14 February to 31 March 2022 initially; understands that this will enable patients, who need close monitoring but do not need to be physically in hospital otherwise, to get the care they need at home, safely and conveniently, rather than being in hospital; further understands that all patients must have a face-to-face assessment with a clinician before being referred to the Covid Virtual Ward, to ensure that they are suitable for it, and that those admitted to it will be shown how to use, and be provided with, a pulse oximeter and a patient diary to record symptoms, with them then being contacted every day by a clinician to discuss their readings and symptoms, and how they are feeling; understands that virtual wards are already in use in many NHS boards; notes that they allow people to remain in the comfort of their own homes while being safe in the knowledge that they can get in touch with a clinical professional immediately if necessary; considers that this results in a better experience for patients and increases hospital capacity to restart activity that has had to be paused during the COVID-19 pandemic, and believes that such innovative practices are a key part of ensuring that the NHS can recover safely and effectively.