SusQI Case Study - Reducing the carbon footprint of the early stroke discharge pathway

SusQI project completed as part of The 2020 Frimley Health NHS Foundation Trust Green Ward Competition. 

Project Aim: To reduce the carbon footprint of the early stroke discharge (ESD) pathway by

a) Reviewing and adapting our transport process.

b) Reducing delays to planned discharges and wasted home visits.

Results:

Environmental impact: A forecast reduction in 4,380 kgCO2e/year.  If adopted at scale air pollution could be reduced and if sufficient reductions were made this would improve health of the local population.

Financial Impact: Over the one-month project period in November 2019, £9.07 was saved from using a single electric car, with forecast annual savings of £111.  The team plan to start using two cars so that each of the technicians can carry out all their visits in an electric care; the forecast savings over 1 year would then rise to £222.

Social sustainability & Engagement: This project has the potential to reduce wear & tear on staff own cars (grey fleet). The project had additional benefits such as improving team morale and supporting teams to feel they were aligning their work practice with their personal values.  Staff reported feeling pleased to be able to make changes towards their service being more ‘eco-friendly’.

Further Information:

You can read more about the projects and savings by downloading the attached case study.

You can read more at the Green Ward Competition | Centre for Sustainable Healthcare webpage.