Key Takeaways

• Bradford Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust has launched virtual access guides in partnership with AccessAble to help patients navigate the Bradford Royal Infirmary.
• The guides utilize 360-degree imagery for better wayfinding, making hospital visits easier, especially for individuals with specific accessibility needs.
• The initiative aims to enhance patient confidence and inclusivity while providing practical information about hospital facilities and services.

Virtual Access Guides Enhance Patient Experience

Bradford Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust has introduced a new initiative to assist patients and visitors in navigating the Bradford Royal Infirmary. By partnering with AccessAble, the trust has launched virtual access guides that feature 360-degree imagery, allowing users to virtually explore various departments and wards on both desktop and mobile devices prior to their visit. This initiative is particularly beneficial for individuals with specific accessibility needs, as it aims to alleviate the anxiety often associated with hospital visits.

Sam Hunter, an estates and facilities project officer at Bradford Teaching Hospitals NHS FT, emphasized the trust’s commitment to improving access and wayfinding for patients and families. He stated, “AccessAble provides a brilliant solution which will help people get to where they need to be more quickly.” The introduction of these guides positions Bradford as one of the first hospitals in the region to adopt this innovative approach.

The virtual access guides complement existing resources available for the Bradford Royal Infirmary and other facilities within the trust’s network, including St Luke’s Hospital and community hospitals at Westwood Park, Westbourne Green, and Eccleshill. They offer comprehensive and reliable information about the hospital environment, enabling patients to identify drop-off points, locate accessible toilets, find waiting areas, and determine where specific equipment, like hearing loops, is available.

In addition to benefiting patients, these virtual guides also assist clinical and administrative staff in ensuring that individuals with particular requirements can easily access the services they need. This not only fosters inclusivity but also enhances the overall efficiency of healthcare delivery.

Dr. Gregory Burke, founder and executive chair of AccessAble, highlighted the significance of the virtual access guides, stating, “They are designed to offer reassurance, build confidence, and give people a greater sense of control over their visit.” This collaboration between Bradford Teaching Hospitals and AccessAble serves as an illustrative example of how innovation and teamwork can effectively dismantle barriers and promote a more inclusive healthcare environment.

As hospitals continue to strive for enhanced patient care, initiatives like these illuminate the importance of accessibility, ensuring that every visitor can navigate the healthcare system with confidence and ease. The rollout of virtual access guides represents a significant step forward in making healthcare facilities more user-friendly and responsive to the needs of all patients.

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