HCS110-Healthcare Needs Policy

Registration Number: {{org_field_registration_no}}

Healthcare Needs Policy

1. Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to ensure that {{org_field_name}} provides high-quality, person-centred healthcare support to people we support. We are committed to ensuring that healthcare needs are identified, assessed, and met efficiently while maintaining dignity, independence, and compliance with Care Inspectorate Scotland regulations, NHS Scotland guidelines, and the Scottish Social Services Council (SSSC) Codes of Practice. This policy outlines procedures for managing chronic conditions, medication support, specialist care needs, and emergency healthcare responses.

2. Scope

This policy applies to all employees, agency staff, volunteers, and healthcare professionals at {{org_field_name}} who are responsible for delivering or coordinating healthcare services. It covers:

Identifying and assessing healthcare needs.
Developing and implementing healthcare plans.
Administering and managing medication safely.
Monitoring chronic conditions and specialist care.
Coordinating with NHS Scotland and other healthcare providers.
Managing healthcare emergencies.

3. Related Policies

Medication Management Policy
Infection Prevention and Control Policy
Safeguarding Adults and Children Policy
Dignity and Respect Policy
Risk Assessment and Management Policy
Confidentiality and Data Protection Policy

4. Legal and Regulatory Compliance

{{org_field_name}} complies with the following legislation and regulatory standards:

Health and Social Care Standards (Scotland) 2018 – Ensuring person-centred and rights-based care.
Care Inspectorate Scotland Regulations – Maintaining high-quality healthcare delivery standards.
Scottish Social Services Council (SSSC) Codes of Practice – Professional responsibilities for social care staff.
Adults with Incapacity (Scotland) Act 2000 – Protecting individuals who lack decision-making capacity.
The Public Health etc. (Scotland) Act 2008 – Ensuring public health and infection control standards.
The Equality Act 2010 – Preventing discrimination in healthcare access and provision.

5. Identifying and Assessing Healthcare Needs

5.1. Initial Health Assessments

Upon admission to {{org_field_name}}, every person we support will undergo a comprehensive healthcare needs assessment.
Assessments will be conducted in collaboration with NHS Scotland professionals, GPs, and other relevant healthcare specialists.
Key health indicators, including pre-existing conditions, mobility limitations, allergies, and mental health concerns, will be documented.

5.2. Ongoing Health Monitoring

Regular health check-ups and reviews will be conducted as per individual healthcare plans.
Changes in physical or mental health will be reported to healthcare professionals immediately.
Risk assessments will be updated following any significant change in health status.

6. Developing and Implementing Healthcare Plans

6.1. Personalised Healthcare Planning

Each individual receiving care will have a detailed and regularly updated healthcare plan that includes:

Medical history and current conditions.
Prescribed medications and administration schedule.
Specialist care needs (e.g., PEG feeding, wound management, diabetes care).
Nutritional and hydration requirements.
Mental health and emotional well-being support.
Emergency contacts and escalation procedures.

6.2. Coordinating Multi-Disciplinary Healthcare Support

Care staff will liaise with GPs, district nurses, and specialists to ensure integrated healthcare support.
Referrals for specialist services will be made promptly when additional healthcare intervention is required.
Family members and legal representatives will be involved in care planning where appropriate.

7. Administering and Managing Medication Safely

7.1. Medication Administration and Support

Only trained and authorised staff will administer medications in compliance with the Medication Management Policy.
All medications must be stored securely and administered following NHS Scotland guidelines.
Medication reviews will be conducted regularly in collaboration with GPs or pharmacists.

7.2. Monitoring for Adverse Effects and Compliance

Staff must monitor for side effects, allergic reactions, or non-compliance with medication regimens.
Any missed doses, refusals, or medication incidents must be reported and documented immediately.
Self-administration support will be provided where individuals are capable of managing their medication safely.

8. Monitoring Chronic Conditions and Specialist Care

8.1. Managing Long-Term Health Conditions

Staff will monitor and assist individuals with chronic conditions, such as diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, epilepsy, and respiratory conditions.
Regular health checks and care plan updates will be conducted based on medical advice.
Preventative care measures, such as vaccinations and screenings, will be encouraged and facilitated.

8.2. Providing Specialist Care Support

PEG feeding, catheter care, and stoma management will only be provided by trained staff.
Wound care and pressure ulcer prevention will be conducted in accordance with NHS Scotland tissue viability guidelines.
Mental health support will be provided, including referrals to counselling or psychiatric services where necessary.

9. Managing Healthcare Emergencies

9.1. Responding to Medical Emergencies

In the event of a life-threatening emergency, staff must call 999 immediately and provide first aid until emergency responders arrive.
Clear protocols for stroke, heart attack, choking, and seizures will be followed as per NHS Scotland guidelines.
Emergency contacts must be notified, including family members and legal representatives.

9.2. Infection Control and Outbreak Management

Strict infection control measures will be enforced to prevent outbreaks of infectious diseases.
COVID-19, flu, and other communicable disease management will follow the latest Health Protection Scotland guidance.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and hygiene protocols must be followed at all times during healthcare interactions.

10. Staff Training and Competency

All healthcare-related tasks will be carried out by appropriately trained staff.
Annual competency assessments and refresher training will be mandatory.
Specialist training will be provided for staff involved in PEG care, diabetes management, and wound care.
Scenario-based training sessions will be conducted to prepare staff for emergency situations.

11. Incident Reporting and Continuous Improvement

Any healthcare-related incidents must be documented and investigated under the Incident Reporting and Investigation Policy.
Lessons learned from incidents will be used to improve policies and procedures.
Feedback from people we support, families, and healthcare professionals will be incorporated into care planning.

12. Policy Review

This policy will be reviewed annually or sooner if required due to legislative updates, Care Inspectorate feedback, or operational needs. Any amendments will be communicated to all staff.

Responsible Person: {{org_field_registered_manager_first_name}} {{org_field_registered_manager_last_name}}
Reviewed on: {{last_update_date}}
Next Review Date: {{next_review_date}}
Copyright © {{current_year}} – {{org_field_name}}. All rights reserved.