April 14, 2016 8.37 am This story is over 95 months old

Lincolnshire hospitals benefit from new mental health liaison team

Health experts have said that a new liaison team introduced in Lincolnshire’s hospitals will improve patient experience and utilise NHS resources. The new specialist mental health liaison team helps patients receive appropriate assessment and support for their mental health needs in A&E departments and inpatient wards. The team works closely with doctors and nurses at…
Photo: Steve Smailes for The Lincolnite

Health experts have said that a new liaison team introduced in Lincolnshire’s hospitals will improve patient experience and utilise NHS resources.

The new specialist mental health liaison team helps patients receive appropriate assessment and support for their mental health needs in A&E departments and inpatient wards.

The team works closely with doctors and nurses at nearby hospitals to ensure Lincolnshire mental health patients are assessed and treated much earlier, and where possible avoid admission.

The hospitals which are benefitting from this team are Lincoln County Hospital, Boston (Pilgrim), Grantham and Peterborough.

Ian Jerams, Director of Operations at Lincolnshire Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, said: “This is a great example of how NHS trusts can work together to improve the patient experience and utilise NHS resources effectively.

Patients will be able to get a more timely response to their mental health needs, ensuring the best outcomes for individuals, especially for older people with dementia.

Those who require treatment in hospital are assessed and if required, staff liaise on wards to ensure they receive comprehensive and holistic care for all their needs.

When discharged, the team help patients to assess appropriate community support and work with discharge staff at the hospitals.

The new team helps both patients and staff at the hospitals to effectively treat and support people with mental health problems.