Somerset ICB Launches Digital Escalation Form to Streamline Patient Care

The NHS Somerset Integrated Care Board (ICB) has introduced a new digital tool—the Electronic Somerset Treatment Escalation Plan (eSTEP)—to enhance the accessibility and security of patient preferences across the region’s healthcare system.

Launched as part of the SIDeR+ (Somerset Integrated Digital e-Record) shared care platform, eSTEP is designed to ensure that a patient’s treatment priorities and care preferences are visible to health and care professionals at the point of need.

It is also being used to share critical information with the South Western Ambulance Service, improving coordination during emergencies.

Tailored especially for individuals with complex care needs or long-term conditions, eSTEP captures a person’s values and preferences while providing instant access across care settings, including to out-of-area providers via the National Record Locator Service. It also updates GP records automatically, reducing duplication and ensuring continuity of care.

The benefits are already being felt: the ICB estimates monthly administrative savings of at least £2,000, along with reduced hospital admissions by ensuring that care aligns more closely with documented patient wishes. It also eliminates reliance on paper forms, which can be easily misplaced or damaged.

Backed by Somerset ICB’s technology partner Black Pear, over 5,000 eSTEPs have now been completed, up from around 2,500 prior to the platform’s formal launch.

Dr Charles Davis, consultant in palliative medicine and associate medical director at Somerset ICB, said, “Best practice already dictates that everyone over the age of 18 should have a STEP in place.

SIDeR+ enables this STEP to be stored and shared securely via an eSTEP. In a crisis, knowing a person’s resus status can be the most vital piece of information—and the ability to share that digitally is critical for timely, holistic decision-making.”