Nutrition Transfers of Care: A recommended digital dataset

The Nutrition Transfers of Care (NTOC) recommendations identify key information required for ongoing care and appropriate use of structured data with a key aim of improving quality and efficiency. The digital dataset was developed with stakeholders from across London and beyond, working in a range of healthcare settings. Initial surveying of dietitians highlighted time consuming manual processes, unwarranted variation in information required for onward referral to community services and challenges in triaging efficiently. Use of a structured transfer document will enable accurate reporting on who is being discharged on ONS with appropriate review, which is integral to support improvements in efficiency, quality, prescribing practice and cost. Automated sharing information between care settings uses Application Programming Interfaces (API). The recommendations reflect national ambitions to improve communication across care settings, such as the National Transfer of Care Initiative and the Professional Records Standards Body (PRSB) Core Information Standard. By applying to what is widely recognised as a ‘wicked problem’ of a small dietetic workforce and over prescribing of Oral Nutritional Supplements, we aim to address capacity and efficiency, in addition to appropriate prescribing.