Tissue Viability Service
The Healthy Leg Project
The Healthy Leg Project is a collaboration between South Eastern HSC Trust Tissue Viability and
Lymphoedema Services. It has been operational for 10 months with funding from SE LCG.
This project is aimed at addressing the issue of inappropriate referral of patients with simple leg
swelling in primary care. Whilst patients suffering with this do not require specialist input, without
timely intervention, they will experience deterioration in symptoms and are likely to require specialist
management at a later date.
The development of our model of care for these patients through 'Healthy Leg' clinics within GP
surgeries, supports the recent national campaign 'Legs Matter' (2018).
To date 22 GP practices have requested involvement. This is work in progress (see graph below).
Comment
received"I have had
troublesome legs
for a long time.
I didn't think anything
would help. I've had creams,
and antibiotics and more creams.
For the first time in years my
legs are lovely, they aren't
big and heavy and
after getting these
socks on, my day
is great!"
Of the 8 practices currently involved, a total of 35 clinics have been booked. A total of 87
patients have been assessed through the Healthy Leg clinics.
Patients are provided with timely Class 1 compression hosiery and education in the role of
hosiery in the prevention of deterioration of their skin condition.
This work was presented at the RCN NIRAQ
conference in November 2018 and also
shortlisted finalists in the AHP Advancing
Healthcare Awards in November 2018.
Staff trained
Primary Care and Older People
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