The charity provided £1,699.80 for the machine for the Alternative Pathways Service, based at Buckland Hospital in Dover. The service is designed to provide patients with alternatives to traditional endoscopy testing where clinically appropriate.
Launched in April this year, it aims to improve comfort, reduce waiting times and create a more positive experience for patients requiring investigation and diagnosis.
Nurses will use the machine to record vital signs such as blood pressure and oxygen saturation levels for up to 180 patients per month, with capacity expected to increase over time. Appointments at Buckland Hospital help free up capacity within acute endoscopy departments across the Trust, helping to tackle waiting lists.
Alternative Pathways co-ordinator Amy Humphrey said: “The support of East Kent Hospitals Charity has enabled us to purchase essential monitoring equipment for our Alternative Pathways Service, helping us deliver safe, effective and patient-focused care closer to home.
“This investment will support our growing team as we continue to enhance the patient journey and expand access to care within the community."
The Alternative Pathways Service has already demonstrated significant benefits for patients. By offering alternatives to more invasive diagnostic procedures, the service can help reduce physical discomfort, minimise the gag reflex and, where appropriate, avoid the need for sedation. This not only improves patient comfort but can also reduce anxiety, particularly for those considered higher risk.
In addition to enhancing patient experience, the service is expected to deliver longer-term efficiencies for the Trust. By streamlining outpatient pathways and reducing the need for unnecessary consultations and diagnostic procedures, the model supports more effective use of clinical resources and contributes to wider service improvement programmes.
