A PIONEERING Kent medical practice is using the all-electric Nissan LEAF to deliver on-the-doorstep care and improve its service to patients while freeing up valuable GP time.
In what’s believed to be a national first, Whitstable Medical Practice has equipped its 30kWh LEAF with high-tech medical equipment, including a portable ECG machine for measuring heart traces and a GP-linked computer system to send information back to surgery in real time.
Operated by three skilled paramedics employed specifically for the scheme, the LEAF will also prove to be a vital lifeline in the winter months when more patients will be unable to get to their appointments in icy weather.
And, because the Nissan LEAF is 100% electric, as well as offering zero emissions mobility, it’s cost-effective too.
George Blandford, Clinical Systems Manager at Whitstable Medical Practice, said: “Essentially what we can offer is somewhere between a GP visit and an ambulance call-out with this service, and for that reason it’s been hugely popular. In fact, in a survey we conducted recently, it was recommended by 100% of the patients who have been visited so far.
“It’s too early to say how cost-effective the car is to the practice, but we know it’s going to make us plenty of savings in the long term. We are delighted this 100% electric Nissan LEAF is helping us provide such a comprehensive service to our patients. We’d like to thank Bailey’s Nissan for their help with the scheme.”
Currently the Nissan LEAF, which has a range of up to 155 miles*, is looking after patients registered at Estuary View Medical Centre, Whitstable Health Centre and Chestfield Medical Centre, but it is hoped the scheme will expand in the coming months.
Steve Renwick, Sales Executive at Bailey’s Nissan Canterbury, which provided the LEAF, said: “It’s been a pleasure to be a part of this deal and get this innovative project moving in the Kent area. The Nissan LEAF is the perfect partner for a project like this, doing good in the community and spreading a positive environment message as well.”
* Based on New European Driving Cycle (NEDC) figures.
