NHS North West London ICB Reduces Virtual Ward Capacity Due to Recruitment and Funding Issues
In response to recruitment challenges, industrial action, and the end of ring-fenced national funding, NHS North West London Integrated Care Board (ICB) has cut its virtual ward bed capacity. This decision has led to a 27% decrease in available beds, despite an increase in patient numbers. The NHSE’s goal is to reach 40-50 virtual ward beds per 100,000 people, but current figures fall short of this target.
With the cessation of ring-fenced funding in March 2024, virtual ward services must now rely on wider urgent and emergency care funding. While funding is still available for virtual ward expansion, the shift in financial support has impacted capacity levels across ICBs. University Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust, on the other hand, is seeing high occupancy rates in its virtual ward beds and plans to expand further.
It is crucial for virtual wards to continue playing a significant role in delivering care closer to home, preventing unnecessary hospital admissions, and reducing hospital stays. Despite the challenges, NHS North West London ICB remains committed to providing high-quality care through its virtual ward program.
