Local healthcare workers have been a lifeline to patients in need during the COVID-19 crisis, with armies of them just a phone call away.

The team at East Ayrshire Community Hospital (EACH) Community Health and Wellbeing Hub have had to adapt to the coronavirus pandemic like all of us. But how do they do so when patients are unable to go in and see them?

Staff have been phoning patients on a regular basis to maintain social ties for those who might not otherwise have an opportunity to speak with anyone. They’ve been on call throughout the pandemic to assist with patients’ queries and worries.

The team includes nurses, physiotherapists, and occupational therapists who work in partnership with individuals to provide tailored treatment plans to aid patients’ health and wellbeing.

Basillia Weir, Nursing Assistant, explained why it has been so important to adapt the service over the last few months:

“It’s really important to keep in contact with our hub patients, as you never know how much or how little support someone has.

“We have adapted our role to fit the needs of the situation that we are currently in and find if patients can’t speak to someone on a regular basis, then a call from our team can make all the difference.

“I enjoy being able to brighten up a patients’ day or help them with a conundrum over the phone. Maintaining that contact is integral to continuing the high standard of care that is so fundamental at East Ayrshire Community Hospital.”

Eddie Fraser, Director of East Ayrshire Health and Social Care Partnership, adds: “During the COVID-19 crisis it has been essential to adapt this service to continue to work in partnership so that we can continue to develop patients’ individual treatment plans to support own personal health and wellbeing goals.

“The team have done a great job in working together to achieve the healthiest life possible for the people of East Ayrshire.”