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Cardmedic

1365. Rachael Grimaldi

Dr Rachael Grimaldi, from Eastbourne, is a doctor on maternity leave who created ‘Cardmedic’ - a series of digital flashcards to help NHS workers wearing PPE better communicate with their patients.

Rachael Grimaldi

Rachael’s flashcards, already available in 10 languages and ‘read aloud’ mode for blind patients, are now used in over 50 countries.

In a personal letter to Rachael, Prime Minister Boris Johnson said:

“On behalf of the whole country, I want to thank you for the wonderful contribution you have made to our NHS and to assisting health workers caring for those with Coronavirus right across the world.

“This pernicious disease had left many patients unable to hear the words of doctors and nurses who are compelled to speak through masks and visors. But your digital flashcards have harnessed the power of technology to restore that vital communication. Because of you, patients can once again hear critical information on their condition and benefit from those precious words of empathy and compassion which provide such care and comfort in the most difficult moments.

“I am lost in admiration to hear that your innovation has already been adopted in fifty different countries and is being translated into thirty different languages, including a “read aloud” mode for blind patients. It will surely continue to assist healthcare around the world long after we have defeated this pandemic.”

Rachael said:

“I am absolutely delighted to have received this award, it is an honour to be recognised in this way. This has truly been a team effort bringing the concept to fruition and I am very grateful to friends, family, colleagues, businesses, services and organisations for donating their time, expertise and support. The dedication and commitment of all to improving patient safety and care has been tremendous.”

Pictured below: Rachael demonstrating the flashcards available on Cardmedic, and flashcards in use in an NHS hospital.

Rachael demonstrating the flashcards available on Cardmedic

Cardmedic flashcards in use at an NHS hospital

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