POOLE Hospital is celebrating after an innovative app which helps people with epilepsy has been shortlisted for a national award.

The Epilepsy Networks Project is in the ‘managing long term conditions category’ of the Patient Safety Awards.

The myCareCentric Epilepsy tool uses innovative new software developed by Poole Hospital as part of a group of providers.

The smartphone app works with existing wearable technology and links to the patient’s medical record. It has been piloted at Poole Hospital and, due to the success of the first trial, is now being trialled on larger groups of patients.

Patients using myCareCentric Epilepsy wear a Microsoft wristband that monitors their general health daily, as well as feeding back real-time vital signs to a patient's consultant during a seizure. The data collected includes sleep patterns, exercise, heart rate, temperature and sweat levels and can be used to identify when a seizure is taking place.

Building a bigger picture of someone’s seizures over a prolonged period means consultants are able to identify potential indicators or factors that cause them, and tailor treatment to match. Medical staff can also provide timely guidance and support to patients via the app rather than waiting for their next appointment.

“This project is all about delivering better care for patients,” said Dr Rupert Page, consultant neurologist and clinical lead for the Dorset Epilepsy Service, based at Poole Hospital. “Patient safety is at the heart of this so it’s great to see our work recognised at a national scale.

“Working in partnership to develop this software has enabled us to focus resources on those patients who need support as close as possible to their time and point of need.”

The Patient Safety Awards will be held on July 4.