NHS trust criticised for remote patient monitoring

A former mental health inpatient, Miss B, was monitored using the Oxevision system by Essex Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust (EPUT). The system uses infrared sensors and cameras to detect signs of distress. Miss B's complaint that the system made her more unwell was partly upheld by the health ombudsman. EPUT was criticised for not seeking Miss B's consent and not properly explaining the system. The trust was instructed to pay Miss B £925. EPUT apologised and is making changes to its policies on consent. The use of Oxevision is being scrutinised as part of the Lampard Inquiry into deaths of mental health inpatients in Essex and east London.