The Bloomsbury Clinic, part of Central Camden Primary Care Network, has revolutionized its community bowel clinic by introducing new technology that has significantly reduced waiting times. The clinic now uses a digital rectoscope, the LumenEye X1 from SurgEase, to provide direct visualisation of the anorectal tract. This innovative device allows physicians to examine the rectum with high-quality images and videos, aiding in the diagnosis of conditions such as rectal cancer, inflammatory bowel disease, and hemorrhoids.
The LumenEye has enabled physicians to conduct thorough examinations in general practice without the need for sedation or overnight bowel prep. This has led to quicker diagnoses and treatments, ultimately reducing the need for patients to be referred to hospitals for further evaluation.
Dr. Ammara Hughes, a general practitioner and clinical director at Central Camden PCN, highlights the advantages of the LumenEye, including the ability to securely save images in a cloud-based system for remote consultation with hospital consultants. With proper training and supervision, physician associates at the clinic have effectively used the device to increase the number of patients seen and treated within the community.
The impact of the community bowel clinic’s new technology is evident in the reduced wait times for patients seeking NHS treatment. By treating non-serious conditions promptly at the GP surgery, the clinic has improved patient outcomes while potentially saving the North Central London Integrated Care Board significant costs.
Overall, the Central Camden PCN’s community bowel clinic has experienced success with the introduction of the LumenEye, demonstrating the benefits of incorporating new technology into primary care settings.
