A scheme to give 350 NHS patients access to free smartphones or tablets to help manage their health conditions has been launched in South Tyneside and Sunderland. The initiative is aimed at people living with conditions such as diabetes who might not otherwise have access to a device or a stable internet connection.
How the scheme works
The scheme is operated by community interest company BornGood and backed by the NHS. The aim is to help people use modern methods to monitor their illness and follow their treatment.
The programme has been backed by Sunderland GP Dr Raj Bethapudi from the Sunderland GP Alliance. He said: "Every day we see how digital access can make it easier for patients to manage appointments, order prescriptions, access health information and stay in touch with our teams.
"However, for some people a lack of equipment or connectivity can be a real barrier. We are proud to support this initiative by donating our devices and helping more patients access the digital tools which can support their care."
Support from health leaders
The programme is backed by the North East and North Cumbria Integrated Care Board and supported by the Health Innovation North East and North Cumbria network.
Claire Riley, chief corporate officer at the ICB, said: "Digital apps are now routinely used to support people with things like mental health, weight loss and long term conditions, as well as for getting appointments and medical support.
"Without these resources, it’s harder to stay well and take care of your health. This is one of a string of projects working to reduce the health gap between our most deprived and most affluent communities."
Devices and rollout
Simon Burdus, social impact and growth manager at BornGood CIC, said: "Too many people are missing out on opportunities to manage their health because they don’t have access to a suitable device, or reliable internet connection.
"This scheme will help people to get online, access NHS services more easily and stay connected to the support they need. The devices we provide will include the NHS App and any other key health apps the patient might need.
"We provide quality devices, which are cleaned and checked before they are sent out. We also offer a 12-month warranty. By refurbishing and reusing devices, we are also creating social and environmental benefits for our communities."
The scheme is being rolled out first in South Tyneside and Sunderland, with staff across the NHS able to refer patients who may benefit.
