Our team provides community based, holistic, patient centred respiratory assessment and treatment planning for individuals with an altered airway or complex respiratory needs. 

This is for adult patients across NCL that fall outside of established pathways.  

We offer support with sputum and airway clearance/cough augmentation, community management of the altered airway, hypersalivation management, complex discharge planning, and assistance with the provision of respiratory equipment and consumables. We work closely with Continuing Healthcare (CHC) colleagues to ensure appropriate care packages are commissioned and liaise with appropriate secondary and tertiary services e.g. sleep ventilation teams.  

We are a small team of respiratory focused therapists who work autonomously while remaining fully integrated within an established multidisciplinary network across NCL to deliver high quality, patient centred care. Medical clinical oversight is provided by Dr Astin.  

Referrals are accepted from any health professional or GP via the designated referral form.

Email enquiries without a referral form are welcomed, as the patient may already be known to our team. This is especially appropriate for issues relating to broken respiratory equipment or missing consumables. If further information is required, a referral form may subsequently be requested.

Ongoing Support

Due to the complexity of the patient group, we do not formally discharge individuals from our service. Patients are advised that they may contact us directly should they require a review or have any concerns. Contact details (telephone and email) are shared with the patient, their next of kin, or the relevant care agency.

Eligibility Criteria

Inclusions

• Adult patient with NCL GP with an altered airway or complex respiratory need.  
• Note: We welcome referrals for a young person on the transitioning to adult services pathway. 

Exclusions

• Child
• Non-NCL patient

How to Refer