Expecting parents cared for at Newcastle Hospitals can now access their maternity healthcare records remotely, thanks to the introduction of the Badger Notes app.
We are replacing paper records with a new electronic BadgerNet Maternity system across the Trust and its community settings. This system includes an app which allows parents-to-be to log into their notes from their mobile device or computer.
All personal information is held securely and cannot be accessed without the appropriate log-in details (similar to internet banking).
By using a single electronic record, it means expectant parents don’t need to remember and take their paper-based notes to every appointment. They can also easily view upcoming appointments and access up-to-date pregnancy information and reading.
Patient information can also be shared securely and more easily between different hospitals in the region, should someone pregnant need to receive care from another other hospital.
This means pregnant people no longer need to repeat their story when speaking to the different healthcare providers they meet.
Corinne Johnson, Digital Midwife at Newcastle Hospitals, said:
“We’re very pleased to see BadgerNet Maternity arrive at Newcastle Hospitals and see how pregnant people will benefit from using the Badger Notes app. This will improve patient care and streamline how midwives and healthcare professionals record data.
“This is just one example of how the Trust is using innovative systems and applying a more person-centred approach to help improve the standard of care we can provide to all patients.”
Paul Moran, Consultant Obstetrician at Newcastle Hospitals, added:
“Moving to a secure and user-friendly system, like BadgerNet, is a welcome step forward for both the staff and the people cared for at Newcastle Hospitals.
“Our staff oversee around 6,000 births a year, and often deal with some of the more complex cases in the region. By investing in our systems, we can help our passionate clinical staff record patient data more accurately, efficiently and securely.”
The BadgerNet Maternity project has had input from a number of departments within the Trust, as well as support from the Newcastle Maternity Voices Partnership group.
If you wish to use the app, your midwife can set up access to your records at your next appointment. The Badger Notes app can be downloaded on Apple and Android mobile devices.
For any maternity patient who does not have access to the technology or does not wish to use the app there will be a paper process. If you already have hand-held notes, please keep these with you for appointments as they may need to be referred to alongside your new electronic record.
To find out more information about Badger Notes at Newcastle Hospitals, visit the Maternity Services section of the Trust’s website. You can also email the Newcastle Hospitals BadgerNet Maternity team for support.
