Online patient tracker launched

The UK's first online tool to let patients record their own progress following surgery has been launched, with an initial focus on the effectiveness of spinal surgery.

Attending the launch was UK Health Secretary, Andrew Lansley, who commented: "The technology is an example of how mobile healthcare innovation can benefit patients. We are committed to creating an environment in the NHS where new medical technologies like this can flourish."

The technology, developed by Health Unlocked, is being trialled at the Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital in London.

Patients use a system of patient-reported outcome measures to regularly keep track of their progess, with doctors and nurses able to access the information and assess the impact of surgery at any period.

According to Health Unlocked, 95 per cent of patients say they prefer the new online process to the traditional methods of recording recovery. Over 100 patients are currently using the tracker.

Dr Matthew Shaw, lead consultant on the project, described the benefits for clinicians: "Having accurate information at my fingertips ensures that I can quickly get to grips with the patients perspective and provide them with first rate healthcare. It will also provide us with new insights about spinal surgery."