Increasing numbers of people have multiple long-term conditions (MLTC). A real point of risk for people with MLTC is when admitted to hospital, where the risks of harm are higher for this group. In this project, we want to use advanced computing techniques to understand the journeys of patients through hospital, using the electronic records made when people are moved between wards or specialist areas.
This will highlight areas where delays are experienced, and also allow us to compare very clear pathways (e.g. a broken hip needing surgery) with more complex ones (e.g. a patient admitted with confusion). This mapping work will allow us to better understand key pressure points in the hospital system for people with MLTC.
Later in our research programme, we will use this work to develop new tools to predict the risk of harm when admitted to the hospital. These tools could be useful for clinicians to develop better services and care pathways for patients in the future.
