Introduction: COVID-19 pneumonia presented a unique problem for healthcare systems with the potential to overwhelm hospitals and lead to unnecessary morbidity and mortality. Safe triage and follow up systems are required to manage this unprecedented demand.
Methods: We designed a pathway for the triage and assessment of patients based on their resting oxygen saturations and response to a 30 metre rapid walking test. We admitted patients to a 'Virtual Ward' for remote oximetry monitoring from the Emergency Department, step down from inpatient wards and from the local Primary Care 'Hot Hub'. This allowed the safe and managed readmission of those patients who deteriorated at home.
Results: During the first wave of COVID-19 we entered 273 onto the pathway for Virtual Ward follow up. Of these, 31 patients were readmitted to hospital, two were admitted to Intensive Care and one patient died. Median oxygen saturation at presentation was 97 % (IQR 96-98%) and following a 30 metre walk test 96% (IQR 94-97%). Median NEWS-2 score was 2 (IQR 1-3). On feedback 99.5% of patients were likely or extremely likely to recommend the service to their family and friends. There was a cost avoidance of £107,600 per month.
Conclusion: It is safe, feasible and cost effective to set up a triage system with remote oximetry monitoring for patients with COVID-19 and overwhelmingly patients find it a positive experience.