The way referrals are made has been streamlined to make it faster, easier, and clearer.
There is now one referral route, accessible through a single e-purple on EPR: HHFT:Virtual Wards (Virtual Ward)
Virtual Wards are transforming patient care by enabling early supported discharge (step-down) and admission avoidance (step-up) through clinician-led remote monitoring and multidisciplinary support.
Aligned with the latest NHS England guidance, this model ensures patients receive hospital-level care in the comfort of their own homes — whether they’re stepping down from acute care or stepping up from community settings to avoid unnecessary hospital admissions.
The Virtual Ward model has proven its value across Hampshire Hospitals and beyond and is now a nationally endorsed approach, helping reduce emergency admissions, shorten hospital stays, and improve patient outcomes.
Enhanced remote monitoring gives clinicians and patients the confidence that care continues seamlessly outside the hospital, supporting recovery and reducing pressure on urgent and emergency services.
Patient feedback
Our virtual wards help patients make the most of every precious day. Here is some feedback below...
"I would like to thank every member of the virtual wards team that looked after my mum during what was a very difficult and worrying time. The virtual wards team gave me the confidence and support I needed to care for mum at home and provided a secure stepping stone from hospital to getting her back home and under the care of the GP."
