A SCHEME offering chronically ill patients the opportunity to monitor their health at home is to be rolled out across the borough.

Kent County Council (KCC) has invested £1m in the plans, which includes 300 TeleHealth computers to monitor a patient's heart rate, weight, blood pressure and temperature.

The machines, which cost £3,000, have been operating in America for four years and can also test for conditions such as diabetes.

The results are then sent down a telephone line to hospitals or GPs, alerting them to any problems.

By taking these readings at home, patients are able to save money and time spent travelling to appointments and reduce pressure on the health service.

KCC chief executive Peter Gilroy said: "The two issues which most concern all care professionals are helping people maintain independence and reducing public costs.

"It is estimated 40 per cent of all pressure on services is linked with chronic disease, with huge costs of rehabilitation, residential or recuperative care, outpatients and acute beds. Technology is moving very fast and is a tool to help us."

Following an initial three-month pilot across Dartford and Maidstone, the scheme will benefit a further 275 people across Kent including Dartford, Gravesend and Swanley in February.

One resident who has already benefited from TeleHealth is Siddiker Ali, from Dartford.

Mrs Ali, 58, is diabetic, has high blood pressure, osteoporosis and has suffered both angina attacks and strokes. On average she had been spending 57 days a year in hospital.

Her son, Shamol Ali, gave up his job with Parcel Line three years ago to care for his mother.

Mr Ali said: "It doesn't replace the doctor and mum still has her monthly check-up.

"But we can instantly monitor her if she is unwell, rather than having to wait for an appointment.

"She hasn't been into hospital since using TeleHealth."

Use of TeleHealth machines is by GP referral only.