Celebrating new technology supporting patients with Parkinson’s

 Thanks to generous fundraising by the Acorn Lawn Tennis Club, where a former patient was Chairman for many years, the Barnet Parkinson’s service at CLCH has installed a new smart screen that allows outpatients to join physiotherapy, speech and language therapy and self-management education  sessions virtually. This means many patients, who often face challenging or exhausting journeys, can now receive continuous, high quality care from home. 

Parkinson’s disease can cause involuntary shaking, slowed movement, and muscle stiffness, all of which can make regular travel difficult.  Barnet Parkinson’s Unit is a “One Stop Shop” providing holistic multi-disciplinary (medical, nursing, therapy and support worker) assessment, treatment and advice to complex Parkinson's disease patients and associated conditions. The service promotes health, safety, independence, and well-being, providing support and education to aid self-management. The new virtual therapy screen expands access to this care by removing a major barrier of travel for many people who are homebound, reducing their physical and mental strain, 

The smart screen was made possible thanks to Stephen Phillips, chairman of the Acorn Lawn Tennis Club and CLCH volunteer, and the work and dedication of members of the Acorn Lawn Tennis Club. Motivated by the care his friend Lawrence Kaffell received, Stephen and his club raised funds to bring the virtual therapy screen into the service. 

Stephen Phillips said:  

“Lawrence often shared the wonderful treatment he received with the Parkinson’s Day Unit and I thank the wonderful staff for the brilliant care they offer to patients with this disease.” 

Lawrence’s wife, Sarah, spoke warmly about her husband’s experience: 

“Everyone was fabulous. We couldn’t have asked for better care, kindness and support during his treatment.” 

Members of the Acorn Lawn Tennis Club and family of Lawrence and Stephen joined CLCH Chief Medical Officer Dr Nicola Kemp and North Central Division Director of Operations K Isaac, and Divisional Medical Director Tamar Koch at the launch. Attendees took part in a live demonstration, joining a virtual physiotherapy session alongside patients dialling in remotely. The session was met with plenty of enthusiasm and energy. 

Anjali Bajracharya, Clinical Lead and Parkinson’s Disease Nurse Specialist, hosted the event and explained how the new technology fills an important gap: 

“Before setting up this screen, we noticed an accessibility gap in continuity of care for outpatients from our day unit. Patients experienced anxiety over difficulties travelling, which acted as a barrier to attending their physiotherapy sessions. 

The virtual therapy screen helps us close this gap by bringing care directly to our patients. It provides comfort and safety while patients can exercise in the familiar and secure environment of their own home.”