Digital Assessments extended to Hywel Dda UHB's Lymphoedema service

Hywel Dda University Health Board has extended its Digital Assessments online service for suitable patients using its Lymphoedema services across Carmarthenshire, Ceredigion and Pembrokeshire.

Digital Assessments help patients to inform their clinical team about their health in-between appointments and are currently used successfully within the health board’s Heart Function service, trauma and orthopaedics and eye care services.

Suitable patients receiving care from the Lymphoedema service will receive a text message or email with a nhs.my link to a Digital Assessment form with questions about symptoms, physical health and quality of life.

The team responsible for the patient’s care will be able to review the information provided in the Digital Assessment, allowing them to check on the patient’s progress and understand their health in-between appointments.

The nhs.my link in the text message and email is trustworthy and delivered by DrDoctor, a service accredited to the highest standards set by the NHS for protecting the healthcare information of UK citizens.

The information provided will be stored securely within the patient’s record.

As lymphoedema can be lifelong, it is important that we work together to help you manage your chronic swelling as independently as possible. This means that you as a patient will work in partnership with your therapist to manage your lymphoedema successfully; this digital assessment is a fundamental part of that partnership.

Dr Phil Kloer, Deputy Chief Executive and Medical Director at Hywel Dda UHB, said: “It is fantastic that we are able to extend the use of Digital Assessments for suitable patients under the care of our Lymphoedema service.

“Digital Assessments do not replace clinical care. The information provided through this secure platform will provide regular monitoring of symptoms at home to help us better understand your health and make the best use of the time spent with your clinical team.”

If your therapist has identified you as a suitable patient to use Digital Assessments you will automatically receive a text or email asking you to complete the online form in-between your appointments.

It is important that we have your correct mobile number, full name, postcode, date of birth and email so you can log in to complete your online form. If you need to update your contact details please phone us on 0300 303 9642.

To find out more about Digital Assessments please visit https://hduhb.nhs.wales/digital/digital-assessments/