MECC is a behaviour change programme that encourages people to make healthy lifestyle choices. Sandwell and West Birmingham Hospitals NHS Trust is the first Trust in the county to have an electronic lifestyle referral system for all four elements, smoking, weight, alcohol and physical activity.
The service refers patients directly to local services in the Sandwell and Birmingham communities for further advice and support regarding healthy lifestyle choices. It encourages staff to take the opportunity of each contact they have with patients and the public to give lifestyle advice. The aim is for staff to give consistent messages to encourage people who come to the Trust to make healthier lifestyle choices.
Ana Federigan, Staff nurse on D6 at City Hospital said: “I think it’s important for staff to speak to patients and visitors about healthy lifestyles because at the end of the day, we are here to look after patients from a holistic point of view. It’s not just about the present problem but how other issues in their life may affect their present situation.”
Patient Elaine Richardson added: “I am happy for staff to speak to me about healthy lifestyle so I can have a healthier life.”
ENDS.
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