Monitoring system for mental heath patients in spotlight

The Leicestershire Partnership Trust recently shared details with the Lampard Inquiry regarding their decision to discontinue the use of Oxevision, a digital patient monitoring system. This technology relies on infrared sensors and cameras installed in patient bedrooms to track vitals like pulse and breathing rates without requiring manual check-ins. While proponents argue the system supports patient recovery by minimizing sleep disruptions, the trust found the implementation faced significant challenges.

During the trial periods between 2022 and 2025, the trust encountered resistance from those in their care. Data presented to the inquiry revealed that only 42% of patients consented to the monitoring during the opt-in phase of the pilot. One instance involved a pregnant patient who refused to stay in a bedroom equipped with the sensors, opting to sleep in an interview room instead. Despite the goal of improving sleep hygiene, the trust concluded the pilot did not reduce the necessity for one-to-one human observations or shorten patient stays.

The Lampard Inquiry continues to scrutinize the use of such technology in mental health settings. Campaign groups have raised concerns about privacy and the potential for surveillance to undermine the sense of security required for recovery. Meanwhile, the Information Commissioner's Office is conducting its own investigation into Oxehealth, the developers of the system.

Other health trusts in England maintain a different stance. The Derbyshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust currently uses the system across most of its inpatient units and intends to expand coverage by 2027. They state the technology allows staff to make timely interventions and helps ensure patient safety while reducing the need to physically disturb people during rest. This disagreement highlights the ongoing tension between utilizing advanced monitoring tools and maintaining a human-centered approach to psychiatric care.