Greater Manchester Tests New Fall Prevention Technology
The Greater Manchester Integrated Care Partnership (NHS GM) has launched a pilot program to identify older adults at risk of falling using advanced screening technology.
The eFalls pilot, which began in February, will run for nine months and marks the first time the system has been deployed outside its research settings at the Universities of Leeds and Birmingham.
It is being implemented by NHS GM, in collaboration with local primary care networks and academic partners, with the South Wigan Ashton North (SWAN) Primary Care Network leading the first rollout.
A Shift Toward Proactive Care
The pilot aims to streamline early detection, ensuring at-risk patients receive targeted interventions before a fall occurs. NHS GM describes it as a major shift in how local healthcare providers support preventative care for older adults.
How eFalls Works
The eFalls system scans digital GP records, assessing factors such as frailty scores, fall history, medication use, and long-term health conditions.
Patients are then categorised into risk levels, with those moderately at risk invited for a health check and enrolled in the Falls Management Exercise (FaME) programme—a series of classes designed to improve strength, balance, and confidence.
Additional interventions may include vision assessments and other preventative healthcare measures.
A Collaborative Approach
Dr Nikesh Vallabh, GP and Clinical Director of the SWAN Primary Care Network, highlighted the value of local insights and partnerships in delivering this initiative:
“By identifying those most at risk, we can connect them with trusted, community-based services like FaME. It’s a proactive, personalised model that promotes independence and eases pressure on the wider health system.
The pilot is backed by a £100,000 grant, jointly funded by the Office for Health Improvement and Disparities (OHID) and the Centre for Ageing Better. If successful, the program could be expanded to more regions, helping to reduce falls and improve quality of life for older adults.
