Kujawsko-Pomorskie Telecare
About this good practice
The good practice is being implemented by Regional Centre for Social Policy in Toruń, together with 87 municipalities in the region. The aim is to improve the quality of life for individuals in need of support through a modern and integrated approach to healthcare and caregiving, utilizing telecare technologies. The practice provides the remote care to seniors, chronically ill and disabled. The main activities include introducing telemedical tools (life bracelets) that monitor the user's basic life parameters, such as heartbeat, GPS functionality, fall alarms, and providing two-way communication. Participants also receive 85 hours of free support from a carer (neighbour), who provides assistance with basic daily chores. The project supports involvement of relatives in the remote care process for seniors and immediate contact with medical staff, which strengthens family bonds and protects seniors from isolation. As a result, beneficiaries receive medical care and advice directly from medical responders at the telecentre. Currently, there are 19 paramedics working in shifts at the telecenter. They react to incoming alerts 24/7, 365 days a year. In situations that pose a threat to health and life, they dispatch emergency medical services via an ambulance. Medical responders, in addition to personal and residential information, have access to medical data defining the seniors' health conditions, ailments, diseases, prescribed medications, and an assessment of their independence.
Resources needed
Project total value: 5,161,689.93 EUR (according to the average exchange rate of Polish National Bank as of August 24, 2023), including EFS co-financing of 4,387,424.30 EUR
Evidence of success
The project has gained significant interest from elderly, ill, disabled, and dependent individuals. By the end of the first half of 2023, nearly 3,600 people have been using the life bracelets, and 1,675 individuals have been provided with neighbourly assistance.
Data as of July 31, 2023:
Number of emergency service calls: 37
Number of medical consultations: 253
Number of notifications to the assistance network: 451
Potential for learning or transfer
Most of countries are experiencing an increase in their elderly population. As the number of seniors grows, the demand for effective and sustainable elderly care solutions becomes crucial. The "Kujawsko-Pomorska Telecare" project's approach could offer insights into addressing this demographic challenge.
The project's remote care model, could help bridge the gap by providing timely medical assistance and consultations, enhancing healthcare accessibility.
Other countries seeking to implement innovative solutions for seniors' health monitoring and safety could consider adopting a similar approach.
The practice emphasizes involving family members in the care process, promoting family bonds and reducing isolation among seniors.
The project's neighbourhood assistance and caregiving volunteering component leverages the power of community support.
The collaboration between public authorities and technology partners showcases successful multi-stakeholder coordination.
Further information
Images
Documents
Website
Good practice owner
You can contact the good practice owner below for more detailed information.
