HEALTH chiefs have spent £91,000 on two life-size obese dolls — to train nurses and paramedics in dealing with the growing numbers of overweight patients.
The spending is part of more than £2million splurged nationally this year on specialist equipment to cope with rising obesity levels.
Other buys include £250,000 on reinforced ambulance chassis and £91,000 more on slings to move heavy patients.
Latest UK statistics show 64 per cent of adults are overweight, with 26 per cent are classified as obese.
The giant-size dolls simulate a patient weighing 145kgs, or 23 stone and have been bought by Sheffield Hallam University’s School of Health.
Suppliers Simulation Collective say: “The moveable skin conceals sores, infections, and skin conditions, enhancing the realism of healthcare training.”
London Ambulance Service has ordered five super-strong chassis to boost the strength of ambulances.
Contract details show the strengthened bases will cost a total of £250,000 from Motus Truck & Van, based in Buckinghamshire.
Yorkshire Ambulance Service is spending £91,000 on the slings that can assist in moving larger-sized patients.
Bariatric equipment is also costing North Cumbria Integrated Care NHS Foundation Trust £400,000 and Norfolk and Norwich University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust £360,000.
The Medstrom and Bradford Teaching Hospitals is spending £465,000 renting gear to help cope with treating the overweight.
NHS procurement chiefs have also agreed nationally to two further deals of £324,000 and £450,000 this year to buy beds, mattresses and equipment to assist with care for obese patients.
