Gynaeconnect 2025
Sinisa Macakanja
ng Gynaecological Care Through R
NHS KRFT KINGSTON HOSPITAL | Jasmine Unit, Galsworthy Rd,
Kingston upon Thames KT2 7QB
Research Essay: Enhancing Gynaecological Care Through Real-Time
Senior Support
Abstract: This research project outlines the development, implementation,
and anticipated impact of “GynaeConnect” – a digital care model designed to
reduce waiting times and enhance clinical safety for gynaecology patients.
By integrating real-time communication technologies into clinical workflows,
the project seeks to provide timely access to senior clinical input for frontline
staff, streamline decision-making, and improve patient satisfaction within the
NHS framework.
Introduction: Prolonged waiting times and limited access to senior clinical
advice in gynaecology units pose significant risks to patient safety and
satisfaction. The GynaeConnect initiative responds to these challenges by
leveraging existing NHS digital infrastructure and devices to establish a
secure, efficient, and locally contained consultation system. This system
enables junior doctors and specialist nurses to connect with senior doctors
using iPads/ iPhones and NHS Wi-Fi for prompt video consultation and advice.
Aims and Objectives: The primary goal of GynaeConnect is to create a
replicable, scalable model that improves patient flow and care quality in
gynaecology. Specific objectives include: 1. Reducing patient waiting times
by at least 30%. 2. Increasing timely access to senior clinical decision-
makers. 3. Improving the confidence and autonomy of junior staff. 4.
Enhancing patient safety through expedited care delivery. 5. Promoting
interprofessional collaboration and digital literacy.
Methodology: A mixed-method implementation approach will be used: -
Phase 1 – Planning: Engagement with stakeholders including clinical leads,
digital teams, and front-line staff. Procurement and configuration of iPads/
iPhones. - Phase 2 – Setup: Deployment of devices connected to NHS
secure Wi-Fi, configured with communication apps such as Microsoft Teams
or Pando. - Phase 3 – Training: Training sessions for junior doctors, nurses,
and senior consultants focused on communication protocol, privacy
standards, and escalation workflows. - Phase 4 – Pilot Testing: 4-week live
test of the system within the gynaecology department. Daily feedback
collected. - Phase 5 – Evaluation and Rollout: Post-pilot review using
quantitative and qualitative metrics, leading to scaling across broader
services.
Team Composition and Roles: The GynaeConnect model includes a
focused team of: - Senior Doctors (5–6): Respond to queries and provide
real-time guidance via video call. - Junior Doctors (1–2): Conduct
assessments and escalate complex cases. - Specialist Nurse (1): Manages
patient triage, initiates communication. - Project Lead: A senior consultant
coordinating the programme. - IT Liaison (optional): Supports technology
deployment and troubleshooting.
Digital Tools and Security: All devices are company issued iPads or
iPhones operating on the NHS secure network. Applications used (e.g.,
Microsoft Teams, Pando) are NHS-approved and comply with GDPR and NHS
Digital data handling policies. All interactions are advisory and must be
documented in the patient’s record through the Electronic Patient Record
(EPR) system. No data is stored on the devices, and video calls are not
recorded.
Workflow Integration: 1. Patient presents at the triage desk. 2. Nurse or
junior doctor conducts the initial assessment. 3. If senior input is required, a
secure message is sent via iPad/ iPhone. 4. First available senior doctor
responds by video call. 5. Clinical decision is made and documented in the
EPR. 6. Patient receives prompt and appropriate care.
Anticipated Outcomes and Evaluation Metrics: The effectiveness of
GynaeConnect will be assessed using the following indicators: - Reduction in
patient waiting time from triage to senior consult (target: ↓ 30%) -
Proportion of senior responses within 10 minutes (target: >80%) - Staff
satisfaction (target: >85%) - Reduction in safety incidents (target: ↓ 20%) -
Positive patient feedback on quality and speed of care
Risk Management and Mitigation: Potential risks include: -
Unavailability of senior staff: Rota system with backups and wilingness to
participate. - Device or network failure: NHS Wi-Fi installation and
availability, IT support available during and out of service hours. - Data
security concerns: NHS-approved applications and compliance protocols
enforced. - Misuse of communication tools: Training and usage policy
guidelines issued.
Discussion: By decentralising senior decision-making through digital
technology-enabled communication, GynaeConnect aligns with NHS goals to
digitise care and improve responsiveness. Early access to senior advice can
prevent unnecessary admissions, reduce the risk of mismanagement, and
enable more efficient use of resources. This model also supports junior staff
development and enhances teamwork.
Conclusion: GynaeConnect is a forward-thinking initiative designed to
address systemic delays in gynaecological care. Through secure digital
integration and targeted team coordination, it offers a scalable model for
NHS trusts aiming to modernise triage services, boost patient outcomes, and
empower clinical staff. Pending successful pilot outcomes, the framework
may be extended to maternity, urology, or weekend care services and in
time to any outpatient service using the same model of care. Keeping in
mind that digital care providers are already available in pharmacy and
general practices who provide direct access to patients via digital media,
Gynaeconnect should lead a way on enhanced outpatient hospital care.
Keywords: Gynaecology, NHS, waiting times, senior support, telemedicine,
digital triage, clinical safety, healthcare innovation.
