Connecting and connectivity: providing video consulting in care homes in Wales

Johns, Gemma; Khalil, Sara; Williams, Jess; Lees, Morgan; Hockey, Lynne; Ogonovsky, Mike; Ahuja, Alka

BACKGROUND: During the COVID-19 pandemic, care home residents and staff were identified as being at risk of infection. Their safety was important, but equally important was safe delivery of healthcare to those who needed it. The Welsh Government provided care homes with video consulting (VC) to deliver safe healthcare to the vulnerable, combat isolation and protect the residents and staff. METHODS: To understand the use, value, benefits and challenges of using VC in care homes across Wales, telephone interviews were conducted between September and November 2020. RESULTS: From 101 interviews, findings suggest that while care homes are responsive to VC, there is a need for further awareness, better training and support for care home staff. CONCLUSIONS: Interestingly, issues around connectivity, lack of equipment and technical literacy were highlighted as minimal barriers. VC should be encouraged as a long-term service to support the health and wellbeing of care home staff and residents.