Frailty Hospital at Home (Virtual Ward)

What is Hospital at Home?

If you are frail and unwell, you may be able to receive hospital level monitoring and care in your own home.

Frailty Hospital at Home, sometimes known as a Virtual Ward, is a safe alternative to a hospital stay.

We have made the following video to explain more:

You may be eligible if you:

  • Are registered with a Sheffield GP
  • Are aged 65 or over
  • Can be cared for safely at home

A healthcare professional will assess whether this service is right for you.

If you are accepted onto the Virtual Ward:

  • A personalised care plan will be created for you
  • You will receive regular home visits
  • Your condition will be closely monitored
  • You may receive treatment, tests or medication at home
  • You and your family/carers will be involved in decisions

You may be supported by:

  • Doctors
  • Advanced Clinical Practitioners
  • Nurses
  • Physiotherapists and Occupational Therapists
  • Pharmacists
  • Healthcare Support Workers

The team works closely with your GP and other services to ensure your care is joined up.

The service is short term and replaces a hospital stay.

Most people are supported for up to 14 days, depending on their recovery.

This service does not provide routine care for long-term conditions. If you need ongoing support, we will arrange this before your discharge.

  • Recover in the comfort of your own home
  • Stay close to family and familiar surroundings
  • Reduced risk of hospital-related infections
  • Maintain independence and mobility

Some patients may use monitoring equipment at home.

This may include checking your:

  • Blood pressure
  • Oxygen levels
  • Heart rate
  • Temperature

You will be shown how to use the equipment. Your readings are reviewed by the clinical team.

If there are any concerns, we will contact you and arrange further support if needed.

Yes you can ask your usual doctor or nurse if you could be considered for the service. If you are in hospital or about to go into hospital you can ask any member of staff if it would be appropriate for you.

This service is available at the following Hospitals: