Outcomes of older COVID-19 patients in Acute Care at Home, Southern HSC Trust, Northern Ireland, from March - June 2020.

Introduction: The older population has been most affected by COVID-19, with mortality rates of around 27%. The Acute Care at Home (ACAH) team aims to improve outcomes in the older population by preventing hospital admission or facilitating early discharge, allowing patients to be treated in their own environment. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the ACAH team administered oxygen therapy, antibiotics, anticipatory medications and other vital interventions to combat the ill effects of COVID-19.

Virtually prepared! Student-led online clinical assessment.

The transition of medical education from a face-to-face to virtual setting due to the ongoing COVID-19 restrictions has been challenging. While both students and educators have now somewhat settled into new teaching methods, from Zoom™ lectures to online tutorials, the adaption of clinical skills teaching to the virtual setting has lagged behind. As a result, many students have been left feeling anxious and concerned about practicing practical and communication skills that are central to being a competent and safe doctor.