Alcohol-Related Hospital Admissions in Somerset Above National Average
Hospital admissions related to alcohol in Somerset are reported to be significantly higher than the national average, prompting the launch of a new alcohol care team at Musgrove Park Hospital. The team, consisting of nurse specialists, aims to provide extra support to patients who are struggling with alcohol dependency or have a high alcohol intake.
According to statistics, approximately one in five adults in Somerset consumes alcohol at levels that have a detrimental impact on their health. Data shows that alcohol-related hospital admissions in Somerset stand at 668 per 100,000 population, which is higher than the national average of 537 per 100,000 population.
To address this issue, the Somerset NHS Foundation Trust has set up an alcohol care service to offer support to patients during their hospital stay and assess their motivation to reduce alcohol consumption or achieve abstinence. The service operates seven days a week, ensuring that patients admitted over the weekend receive specialist support from the earliest point of their hospitalization.
Experts in gastroenterology, Dr Rudi Matull and Dr Tom Johnston, played a key role in establishing the new team. These consultants aim to reduce the number of hospital admissions resulting from alcohol misuse and shorten the length of stay for those requiring hospitalization.
Alcohol misuse is highlighted as the leading risk factor for ill-health, disability, and mortality among individuals aged between 15 and 49 years old. It is also the fifth largest risk factor across all age groups. In the UK, it is estimated that there are over 600,000 dependent drinkers, with heavy drinking costing the NHS more than £1.7 billion annually.
The average British household spends approximately £11.30 per week on alcohol, equivalent to nearly £600 per year. With such staggering figures, addressing alcohol dependency and supporting individuals in reducing their alcohol intake is of paramount importance.
Laura Jones, the Clinical Service Manager for Gastroenterology and Endoscopy at Somerset FT, expressed her enthusiasm for the new alcohol care team, emphasizing the much-needed support it provides to patients struggling with alcohol dependency. The team consists of three clinical nurse specialists who offer personalized support, aiming to prevent hospital admissions due to alcohol misuse and minimize the length of stay for those who do require hospitalization.
Lottie Lee, the Lead Alcohol Nurse at Somerset FT, highlighted the comprehensive services offered by the alcohol care team. They conduct reviews on all alcohol-dependent inpatients and those consuming high levels of alcohol, assessing their motivation to reduce alcohol intake or achieve abstinence. The team also works closely with external organizations, such as the Somerset Drug and Alcohol Service, to ensure patients receive the appropriate care and support they need.
As this service is still in its early stages, the number of patients being seen by the alcohol care team is gradually increasing. Patients who have benefited from the support and education provided by the team regarding alcohol withdrawal have expressed their appreciation for the help they have received.
The launch of the alcohol care team at Musgrove Park Hospital reflects a proactive approach towards tackling alcohol-related hospital admissions in Somerset. By offering specialized support and interventions, the team aims to reduce the burden of alcohol misuse on individuals’ health and the healthcare system. As more patients access this valuable service, it is expected to make a significant impact on the well-being of the community.
