A physiotherapist from the Royal Free London has been honoured as a digital pioneer. 

Stephanie Mansell, consultant physiotherapist, was recognised at the 2017 Digital Health Awards for her use of innovative technology which is improving patient care. 

Stephanie said: “I was nominated for my use of modem technology which allows us to treat patients’ receiving non-invasive ventilation (NIV) at home. These patients need to use ventilators as they have problems breathing in their sleep due to obesity, neuromuscular diseases or other factors. 

“My patients are geographically spread and a lot of them have motion problems, so physically coming to hospital can be extremely difficult for them. With this technology, their ventilators have modems fitted at the back which transmits their data to me at the Royal Free Hospital meaning I can care for them without them needing to come to hospital. 

“I was really proud to be nominated and to win, this technology is allowing me to be more flexible and improve the way I care for my patients. The technology tells me how well the patient’s ventilators are working and even if their masks are fitting properly. 

“I hope by winning this award, the great work we are doing at the Royal Free London will get more attention and this technology can be used to benefit more patients.”

Stephanie Mansell

Notes to editors

About the Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust

The Royal Free began as a pioneering organisation and continues to play a leading role in the care of patients. Our mission is to provide world class expertise and local care. In the 21st century, the Royal Free London continues to lead improvements in healthcare.

The Royal Free London attracts patients from across the country and beyond to its specialist services in liver and kidney transplantation, haemophilia, renal care, HIV, infectious diseases, plastic surgery, immunology, Parkinson's disease, vascular surgery, cardiology, amyloidosis and scleroderma and we are a member of the academic health science partnership UCLPartners.

In July 2014 Barnet Hospital and Chase Farm Hospital became part of the Royal Free London. Read 'A bigger trust, a better future'.