PATIENTS can receive vital test results over the telephone rather that going to hospital under a revolutionary scheme launched in the North-west.
The "tele-medicine" system is being introduced in Cumbria and Lancashire.
The local strategic health authority is working with Broomwell Healthwatch, which provides the equipment to be used by GPs or the patients themselves.
The machines monitor blood pressure, temperature, pulse and breathing rate, heart rhythm and blood sugar levels.
Once the test has been carried out, the information is transmitted by telephone to Broomwell's 24-hour monitoring centre in Manchester.
Clinical staff then analyse the data and within minutes speak to the GP or patient to report back their findings and decide on the appropriate treatment.
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