27/11/2006

'Cot Locator' launched for critically ill babies

A system to find intensive care cots for sick and premature babies has been launched by the government.

Developed by clinical and professional experts, the National Cot Locator will allow nurses and clinicians to see at a glance where available cots are located around the country.

Around 40 level 3 neonatal intensive care units in England will be covered on the system.

Neonatal networks aim to provide 95% of neonatal intensive care for babies locally. However, in circumstances where babies have to be transferred outside of the local network and also to more specialist units, the cot locator will allow these transfers to be planned and co-ordinated way.

Commenting on the launch, Health Minister Ivan Lewis said: "About 17,000 babies a year require neonatal intensive care. On the occasions when a suitable cot is needed outside of the local network, a call to the National Neonatal Cot Locator will provide immediate up-to-date information about more distant options, making sure that these transfers can happen quickly, are effectively planned and can go as smoothly as possible.

"This will make a real difference to families and professionals seeking to ensure that babies and parents get the best possible care in usually very challenging circumstances."

Andy Cole, chief executive of premature baby charity Bliss, welcomed the announcement. He said: "We hope to see the cot locator have a significant impact across England on the crucial issues of available costs and transfers for babies in need of intensive care."

Over the last year, the average number of cots available was 957, ranging between 900 to over 1,000 cots according to demand.

(KMcA/EF)


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