Integrating Health Improvement and Prevention in Urgent and Emergency Care (UEC).
1. Health improvement and prevention in Urgent and Emergency Care
In the UK, with a population of 67 million, there were 25.3 million attendances to Urgent and Emergency Care (UEC) settings in 2022-23.
Rates of UEC attendances per head of population for people living in the most deprived areas are nearly double that of those in the least deprived. Patients with multiple wider determinants impacting on their health are more likely to attend the Emergency Department (ED). rather than their General Practitioner (GP).
There is substantial evidence to suggest that delivering brief interventions in UEC settings is effective. 1 in 8 patients given brief intervention advice around alcohol intake reduced their consumption as a result.
People are often more receptive to advice if their lifestyle choices can be linked to their reason for attendance. This can be identified as a “teachable moment”.
Why is health improvement and prevention important in UEC settings:
Think back to your clinical cases this week:
- Consider why these people have presented at this point in their life.
- Consider what factors might have had an impact on their presentations.
You may like to make your own notes as you work through the package, allowing you to develop your understanding.