Two Cheshire and Merseyside projects shortlisted for national health data award

Two projects that harness the power of health data to help improve the lives of people in Cheshire and Merseyside have been shortlisted for a national award.

A scheme to reduce A&E visits in Cheshire East by providing tailored support for people living with frailty and an initiative to limit the impact of fuel poverty on people with severe respiratory conditions in St Helens and Knowsley have been named as finalists in this year's Health Service Journal (HSJ) Awards.

The projects – which are both shortlisted for the Data Driven Transformation Award – use linked population health data to identify people who could benefit most from targeted support. This is in line with the ambitions of the Cheshire and Merseyside Data into Action programme that uses patient information to improve care.

The shortlisted projects are:

Cheshire East High Intensity Users scheme

Developed by NHS Cheshire and Merseyside Community Partnerships, this scheme was set up in response to the high level of A&E attendances among people living with frailty. Working collaboratively, staff from local NHS trusts, GP-led care community groups and Cheshire East Council have designed care packages around people's individual needs – improving their health and wellbeing and removing the triggers that lead them to need sudden or frequent medical emergency contact. The work has already led to a significant fall in A&E attendances and emergency admissions among those receiving support

Targeting Fuel Poverty to Improve Respiratory Outcomes

Delivered in partnership by NHS Cheshire and Merseyside and Health Innovation North West Coast, this project initially focused on adults with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in St Helens and Knowsley. After having their individual needs assessed, patients received a range of support, including medicines optimisation, pulmonary rehabilitation referrals, smoking cessation help and financial advice. The project has led to a 9.8% fall in GP appointments among those receiving support, and it has now widened its scope to support children at risk of developing breathing problems. Find out more about the impact of the Fuel Poverty Project. 

The annual HSJ awards celebrate excellence, innovation, and outstanding leadership across the NHS and healthcare sector.

This year, there were more than 1,300 entries from across the country and 231 projects and individuals have reached the final shortlists in 26 categories.

Organisers say the high volume and exceptional quality of applications received showcases the "impressive levels of innovation and care continually being developed in the UK’s healthcare networks".

The winners will be announced at a prestigious awards ceremony in London in November.