A REVOLUTIONARY scheme that would see GPs consult with their patients through video link is to be expanded to a local prison.

In July plans were announced to trial a system where patients in Millom could have a virtual consultation with their doctor.

The scheme, which saved patients a 45-minute car journey, has now been extended to inmates at nearby Haverigg Prison.

The extension of this 'telehealth' system is expected to reduce the numbers of inmates which have to be taken to Furness General Hospital.

It would also have a knock-on effect of freeing up prison officers involved in transporting inmates, and potentially reduce the costs of such measures.

Taking a prisoner from Haverigg to FGH takes six hours on average, including organisation and travel time.

The consultation between the emergency department doctor and the prison-based patient will be supervised by a clinician at the prison. Following the consultation, if transport to the emergency department is required, this will be arranged.

Caroline Gardner, business support manager at HMP Haverigg, said: "This is an exciting development for healthcare within Haverigg prison. It means that staff working in the health care centre at the prison can call on expert advice from hospital specialists to determine whether the patient can be treated within the prison or if they require attendance to the emergency department.

"This initiative could have a huge impact on the number of journeys out of the prison."

It is estimated the scheme will save Millom residents from making more than 22,000 journeys to hospital per year.

Chiefs at the local healthcare trust are are enthusiastic at the prospects of expanding the consultations.

Zoe Potgieter, head of healthcare at Cumbria Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, said: "It is very exciting for HMP Haverigg to be a part of this Better Care Together initiative which has been greatly supported and welcomed by the governor. The use of video consultations will accelerate the time from which a prisoner, who would normally need to attend the emergency department, receives either a diagnosis or further plan of care in real time.”