Patients will be offered ‘virtual appointments’ in some clinics at Queen Victoria Hospital. 

Skype appointments are being rolled out in three of the hospital’s speciality areas; facial palsy therapy, burns therapy, and hand therapy.   These clinics provide rehabilitation services to people across the country who have been significantly affected by life changing accidents, conditions or disorders.  The Skype clinics mean that many patients will now benefit from fewer hospital visits. The Hospital has said that only patients who meet a set of strict criteria will be offered Skype appointments at this stage.  

It is hoped that the virtual appointments will reduce the stress associated with travelling long distances and will also save patients time and money. The clinics should also reduce the number of on-the-day cancellations which are not only costly, but also increase waiting times.