An online ordering system for therapy beds and mattresses

Within this article, the authors have put forward a solution to keep track of pressure-relieving devices using internet-based secure online systems. In partnership with a therapy bed company they set up a system that was able to manage and monitor the requirements of their trust and ensure that products are used for patients who most need them. In using these systems they were also able to gather real-time data on usage and costs as well as time-dependent analysis. The system has also allowed a means of gathering outcome measurement of all products in use. Over a 6-month period the authors have shown how a forecasted 18% budget deficit has been turned into a 10% under spend of the overall budget. It is suggested that these systems could be one way of managing the pressure-relieving needs of hospital trusts ensuring both clinical effectiveness and cost-benefit.