Kent's ambulance service trials innovative mobile X-Ray system in patient homes
Portable X-Ray device reduces hospital admissions in successful trial
Kent's ambulance service is trailing a ground-breaking mobile X-Ray system that could revolutionize emergency care by delivering services directly to patients' homes.
Developed in collaboration with Ashford and St Peter’s Hospitals, the miniaturized X-ray system, the size of a briefcase, can be set up in patients' homes in just five minutes.
Co-creator Andrew Moth from the South East Coast Ambulance Service stated that the system has the potential to significantly reduce hospital admissions, saving costs for the NHS and enhancing patient well-being.
Success of the Initial Trial
The four-month trial of the Emergency Community X-Ray Service proved highly effective, with the initiative reducing hospital visits and improving ambulance utilisation.
Between July and October of last year, the service allowed 66% of 38 patients to avoid unnecessary hospital trips; 25 patients stayed at home, thanks to the portable X-ray service.
Mr Moth explained that elderly patients, particularly those with dementia or frailty, benefit from being treated at home, reducing anxiety and eliminating risks associated with hospital admissions.
Features and Benefits
The compact X-ray equipment provided by Fuji fits into a backpack and a carry case, making it significantly more portable than traditional X-ray gear.
Despite its small size, the device still delivers high-quality results - X-ray images are sent directly to St Peter’s Hospital for evaluation by a radiographer.
Mr Moth emphasised, "Patient experience has been high, with 100% of patients saying they were happy to have the X-ray at home."
The successful pilot has prompted an expansion of the service to operate five days a week from February to May, demonstrating alignment with the NHS 10 Year Health Plan that aims to focus on community-based care.
Andrew Moth envisions eventual wider adoption, benefiting patients and NHS finances across the South East Coast Ambulance Service.