Rheumatology Department nurse shortlisted in the 2020 Nursing Times Awards

Published: 5 October 2020

Rheumatology Specialist Nurse Rian Penford has been shortlisted in the 2020 Nursing Times Awards after entering the Promoting Patient Self-Managementcategory.

She and the Rheumatology Team at Torbay Hospital, run by Torbay and South Devon NHS Foundation Trust, have been recognised for building and upgrading the Rheumatology Connect app that supports patients wherever they are which has proved a great success.

The latest version, Connect Plus, launched by the Trust, is available on Apple and Android.

The advice and information is trusted by patients because it is local – designed and written by Dr Kirsten Mackay and Rian with other members of the Rheumatology Department.

The team developed the app with partner HCi digital which specialises in digital sources of health and care advice.

Rian said: “I am thrilled to be shortlisted for this prestigious award. We have been working hard on the newly upgraded app. We are pleased to announce the new version of the app for rheumatology patients.”

Connect Plus replaces the existing Rheumatology Connect and is an exciting move forward with more information about conditions, diagnosis, medication, exercise and healthy lifestyles, FAQ’s and videos to help support patients in your condition journey from all members of the Torbay Hospital Rheumatology Disciplinary Team.

Rian added: “;A new diagnosis can be a frightening and confusing time for patients but with trusted advice and guidance at their fingertips, the app helps patients to self-manage their condition with confidence and reassurance.”