MORE "modern" matrons will soon help change the face of healthcare in York and Selby.

Four community matrons are about embark on rounds in the Selby and York Primary Care Trust (PCT) area, supporting people with long-term illnesses by visiting them in their own homes.

The roll-out follows a successful pilot in Selby, with ten matrons expected to be in place by Spring 2007. Each matron will deal with up to 45 patients, who suffer from a range of health and social care needs and chronic illness.

Julie Rae, who began work as a community matron in Selby earlier this year, has visited patients with asthma, diabetes and hypertension, helping them access wheelchair or health services which could enhance their lives.

Like her, the new matrons will oversee the care each patient receives and co-ordinate with social services.

The Government plans to introduce 3,000 community matrons across England and Wales by Spring 2007.

Jeremy Clough, chief executive of the PCT, said: "The community matrons scheme is a fantastic development and demonstrates the PCT's commitment to provide the highest quality care in the community, close to people's homes. I would like to congratulate our four new matrons who will play a key role in the continuing development of community health care."

Care services manager Liz Vickerstaff said: "The community matrons will be in charge of making sure that the best possible care is given to patients in the community.

"They will liaise between the agencies that offer support, for example social services and community nurses, and make sure that everyone is working together, which will deliver real benefits for patients. The community matrons will work as part of a multi-disciplinary team and will take the lead in developing patient care to meet individual needs."

Matron Emma Cummings said: "This is a really exciting time for us, as we will be able to take the lead in making sure that patient care is of the highest standards.

"The Selby pilot project has shown that community matrons can make a real difference for patients and this is a great opportunity to offer these benefits to patients across the Selby and York area."

Updated: 09:35 Saturday, July 23, 2005