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06 Sept 2025
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06 Sept 2025
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The CARE project at Letterkenny University Hospital
The CARE (Community and Acute Respiratory Excellence) project at Letterkenny University Hospital has been honoured with the Best Digital Project Award at the Bright Spark National Innovation Awards 2024.
This recognition celebrates CARE’s groundbreaking approach to managing chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) through an innovative digital platform.
The CARE project introduces a pioneering 20-bed Community Virtual Ward (CVW), which incorporates continuous respiratory rate (cRR) monitoring. This digital solution allows patients to manage their COPD from the comfort of their homes while receiving continuous care and support through a comprehensive virtual platform.
In its first six months, the CARE project facilitated the management of over 200 COPD patients with a 30% reduction in hospital admissions. The system's real-time monitoring capabilities have enhanced patient management and early intervention. The project has received positive feedback from patients, with 85% reporting improved management of their condition and overall satisfaction.
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Antoinette Doherty, Advanced Nurse Practitioner at CHO 1, commented: "The CARE project has fundamentally changed how we support COPD patients, allowing them to manage their condition effectively at home. The Best Digital Project Award is a testament to the positive impact of our digital solution on both patient outcomes and healthcare efficiency."
Jared Gormly, HSE Spark Programme Director, praised the CARE initiative, stating: "The CARE project exemplifies how digital innovation can transform chronic disease management. This award highlights the project's success in enhancing patient care and reducing hospital admissions, demonstrating the potential of digital solutions in improving healthcare delivery."
The HSE Bright Spark Awards celebrate innovative projects that have made a significant impact on patient care or service delivery across Ireland. Every year, during the Spark Summit, we honour project teams that have demonstrated excellence in the Irish healthcare system.
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