NHS blood clot screening ‘helping to save lives’

NHS blood clot screening programmes introduced in 2010 have been making a difference in helping to prevent deaths from venous thromboembolism (VTE).

In July 2010, a measure was introduced to ensure the NHS assesses 90 per cent of admitted patients for VTE risk and offer treatment to those who require it, leading to the screening of 14.3 million people to date.

As a result, 91 percent of patients in England are now being screened for VTE, which is proving instrumental in helping those at risk from the condition to receive therapy before it becomes serious.

It is thought that deep vein blood clots can cause around 25,000 patient deaths per year, making this screening initiative a key priority.

Health minister Simon Burns said: "The NHS must ensure that patients at risk of VTE receive appropriate preventative measures to help save lives. We expect hospitals around the country to continue to work hard."

This comes after the Department of Health published figures last week showing the success of its Act FAST health campaign in helping people in the UK to better understand how to react when somebody is having a stroke.