Evidence submitted by Guidant Limited
(WP 90)
Guidant is a world leader in the design and
development of cardiovascular medical products. Making devices
which help patients with heart disease return to active and productive
lives. And providing physicians with leading-edge technologies
for improved patient management and clinical outcomes.
Radiofrequency (RF) technology for ICD's (implantable
cardioverter defibrillator), CRT (Cardiac Resynchronisation Therapy)
and Pacemakers are now available for patients and physicians in
the UK, however, the technology and its benefits for patients,
and the National Health Service have yet to be fully understood
and appreciated. This is relevant to the workforce planning inquiry
in relation to technological change and how this can help both
clinical and managerial staff in reducing the demands upon NHS
staff.
RF AND THE
FUTURE IMPACT
ON THE
WORKFORCE ISSUE
The true impact of RF technology is yet to be
seen in the UK, this technology gives clinicians the ability to
manage ICD and Pacemaker patients remotely in the home Later this
year several manufacturers will introduce Remote Patient Management
to the UK. This will allow clinicians to manage patients in their
own homes with out the need for a hospital visit, greatly benefiting
these often elderly, sick patients from having to make a lengthy
journey to hospital. The impact on the workforce issue of cardiac
technicians will be highly beneficial, as the introduction of
RF will mean a reduction in the number of outpatient clinics required.
REDUCTION IN
TIME
The use of RF technology has the potential to
reduce theatre procedure times, which benefits the patient and
allows greater productivity for the Cardiologist and theatre staff.
Patients with ICD's/Pacemakers need to have
their devices checked and interrogated on a regular basis at an
outpatient clinic. Pacemaker clinics are heavily oversubscribed
and there is a shortage of cardiac technicians in the UK (25%
below recommendations ref: http://www.dh.gov.uk/assetRoot/04/09/76/48/04097648.pdf).
RF technology facilitates in clinic follow-up and has the potential
to improve productivity.
INDUSTRY HELPING
THE WORKFORCE
ISSUE
In industry, we use an innovative approach to
training in the form of an Escalator Skills Model to train company
personnel to assist in the implant of ICD's. This model has been
highly successful and individuals can gain accreditation in six
months. At Guidant we have shared our programme and methods with
the Greater Manchester Cardiac Network and are acknowledged by
the Strategic Health Authority in the Catheter laboratory Edition
of the Critical Care Skills Programme. This system is now used
in Greater Manchester as well as other areas of the country. We
hope that this demonstrates industries commitment to assist with
the Workforce Issue.
Julie Lyon
Guidant Limited
July 2006
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