New computer system gives patients smoother hospital journey

30/01/2019

A new computer system that allows staff to quickly and easily check patient flow from anywhere in the hospital is set to minimise wait times and make for a smoother patient journey at Palmerston North Hospital.

 

The MIYA platform is now live in 17 wards and the emergency department at Palmerston North Hospital and one ward at the Horowhenua Health Centre.

 

It gives real-time updates of bed management and patient flow throughout the hospital and health centre, showing a patient’s progress from the time they arrive to the time they’re discharged, as well as an overview of hospital occupancy.

 

Staff are able to securely view a current patient’s history, including admissions, demographics and results, and quickly view immediate bed availability in suitable wards, minimising waiting times and making a patient’s journey through the hospital as smooth as possible.

 

MidCentral DHB Executive Director Nursing and Midwifery Celina Eves said feedback from staff had been positive.

 

Associate Charge Nurse Ange Hay, Dr Yih Harng Chong and Geriatrics Advanced Trainee Matthew Johnson use the MIYA platform to view patient flow through the Palmerston North Hospital STAR 2 ward.

 

“The information is displayed in an easy-to-read way and the system provides both charge nurses and nurse managers with the ability to see real-time updates of patient flow, which improves planning and ultimately ensures every patient is provided with the best care possible.

 

“Decisions about patient care can be actioned immediately with the most up-to-date information available, meaning their care is better managed by reducing clinical risks, reducing wait times and keeping patients better informed about their progress and care.”

 

Charge Nurse Sarah Donnelly said the new system had already made her job much easier.

 

“I have access to real-time multi-disciplinary information and discharges as they happen as opposed to waiting for the information to be written in the notes or the medical staff to inform me. 

 

“The mobile technology is a god-send on ward rounds and has helped improved patient flow in and out of the ward, making discharges more evident and timely. I love it and wouldn’t be without it now.”

 

Ms Eves said the new system was fully secure and processes were in place to ensure patient privacy.