Tower Hamlets Falls Pick-up Service

The Tower Hamlets Fast Falls Response Service is an ongoing project in relation to the Rapid Response Team in Admission Avoidance & Discharge Service (AADS).

This pilot started from 2nd Jan 2021.

The team is made up of a senior nurse and/or physiotherapists and occupational therapists who will attend to any falls related referral for people age 18 and over who have fallen in their home environment.

Following clinical triage, a response is made by a nurse and therapist within 30mins.

The nurse will carry out a medical assessment including urinalysis, ECG (only if indicated), minor wound care that does not require suturing and glueing.

In support of the medical assessment, the physiotherapist or occupational therapists will carry out a falls assessment whereby mobility, transfers, and ability to manage daily activities are assessed.

When required, essential equipment, urgent care package, and exercise prescription are set up to ensure patient’s safety in home environment in order to prevent avoidable hospital and ED attendance.

The team works closely with Physician Response Unit (PRU) and accepts referrals from this service, as well as from GPs, social workers, LAS/NHS 111.

The team will liaise with other medical professionals to determine best care pathways as required.