Project summary
Following a request from a patient, open internet access is now provided to patients and visitors in the Western Isles Hospital.
Project Dates
Start Date: 13/01/2009
Ongoing
Location of project
Western Isles
Area of healthcare
Acute care
Target groups
All patients of the hospital - particularly good for younger generation
Approaches used
Interviews
Aims and objectives
A patient who had been in the Western Isles Hospital for an extended period was keen to be able to access the internet to allow her to continue her passion for researching genealogy.
The Spiritual Care Committee at NHS Western Isles became aware of this and, in consultation with the patient, becam to investigate how this service might be provided.
The aim was then extended to provide internet access for all patients and visitors at the Western Isles Hospital.
What we did
Once the need had been identified, the IT department of NHS Western Isles investigated the options for, and possibility of, providing internet access for the public and patients visiting the Western Isles Hospital.
A potential problem that was highlighted but overcome was the need to maintain the security of the Health Board’s own network. A separate network for public use has been set up.
Initially wireless access for patients’ own laptops was established in just one ward, in January 2009. Since then, a number of other areas at Ospadal nan Eilean were identified where patients could access the internet - these include the public tea room area and a ‘kiosk’ computer in ward areas.
An external body, the Connected Communities project, supplied and installed the internet access free of charge, in return for some publicity.
To avoid the inappropriate use of the internet, a web filter was also installed to ensure security and peace of mind, using the free OpenDNS service.
Evaluation
Comment from one of the enthusiastic users: "I have been here for 11 months and this has made a huge difference to my day. Rather than sitting watching TV all the time, it's great to be able to email my friends and keep in touch with them. It's a very positive development."
Another comment: "For those who require an extended stay in hospital, keeping the mind active is positive for improved outcomes. The traditional books and magazines are always useful and welcome but many people now find pursuing their interests and hobbies online is a real advantage. This new facility will offer a further opportunity for patients to remain engaged with goings-on out with the hospital during their treatment."
Plans for the future
There is ongoing demand for this facility, which is demonstrated by requests from other patients who have a desire to access the internet. However, some awareness raising might benefit patients who currently do not know about the service.
It is hoped to extend this facility to the Uist and Barra Hospital.