Birmingham’s city-wide telehealthcare service: how the largest service of its kind in the UK is delivering better for less

Abstract

Introduction: Birmingham City Council has invested £14m in a large-scale, city-wide telecare service in partnership with Tunstall. The partnership model, which is believed to be the first of its kind in the UK, will ensure safety and support for older and vulnerable residents whilst maximising their independence. The service combines a monitoring and response service with a range of telecare packages from Tunstall to manage assessed risks supporting vulnerable people and those with long-term needs. Aims and objectives: Launched in February 2012, the programme will provide support and reassurance for over 25,000 older and vulnerable citizens over a 3 year period. The service aims to help people remain at home and in control for as long as possible, reducing or preventing the need for home care or a move into residential care. By embedding telecare into its processes and culture, Birmingham City Council is pioneering the use of large-scale technology to support a shift in balance from c)