Introduction: Frail, older patients with COVID-19 have an increased risk of hospital admission and death.
Methods: We studied a regional model of care used for older patients with COVID-19 in spring 2020 across three settings: an acute teaching hospital, a district general hospital and a temporary emergency hospital. We also studied demographic and outcome data for these patients.
Results: Increasing bed capacity in non-acute sites freed up beds in acute hospitals. Strict admission criteria and multidisciplinary team involvement allowed for the safe delivery of care in step-down sites.
Conclusion: This model of care allowed for patient flow out of acute sites following the acute stage of their illness allowing for an increase in bed capacity while providing a safe setting for ongoing management.
Keywords: COVID-19; MDT working; health systems planning; hospital networks; pandemic preparedness.
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