Hertfordshire Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust (HPFT) has joined forces with The Access Group to implement Access Patient Flow Manager (APFM), a software solution designed to streamline bed provision across the region. This partnership aims to ensure that more people receive the care they need in a timely manner.
As part of NHS England’s long-term plan, HPFT is in the process of modernizing its systems and transitioning to a digital ecosystem of care. APFM provides a live view of patients within the hospital or care setting, allowing for efficient management and prioritization of care.
The trust, which has approximately 400 beds for various types of care, is also utilizing private beds post-Covid to address service backlogs. APFM is expected to play a crucial role in reducing these backlogs and optimizing bed utilization.
Without effective data visibility for bed management, medical staff often spend significant time gathering information through meetings, phone calls, and emails. The implementation of APFM will alleviate this burden and provide real-time insights into bed occupancy and patient data.
The collaboration between HPFT and The Access Group will also involve seamless integration of APFM with the trust’s existing electronic patient record (EPR) software, ensuring access to up-to-date patient notes and information.
Furthermore, the software will offer valuable data insights that can improve hospital discharge processes and facilitate the safe and timely transition of patients to their homes.
Hakan Akozek, director of innovation and transformation at HPFT, highlighted the importance of having a reliable single source of truth for inpatient flows, emphasizing the role of APFM in achieving this.
Access Patient Flow Manager will provide HPFT with a unified system for managing demand and capacity, supporting efficient bed management through a phased rollout and ongoing technical support from The Access Group.
Steve Wightman, healthcare director at Access HSC, emphasized the software’s ability to improve bed visibility, reduce unnecessary long stays, and alleviate administrative burdens on hospital staff.
By leveraging APFM, HPFT aims to enhance communication, optimize data management, and maximize bed usage to continue providing essential care to the people of Hertfordshire for years to come.
