In order to deliver essential patient care, the communication and coordination between healthcare providers must be efficient and effective. Communication gaps can have critical consequences and potentially lead to delays in delivering needed care, continuation of the incorrect treatment plan, and increased length of stay – all of which may impact patient satisfaction and outcomes.
Virtual care platforms are increasingly being utilized to close the communication gap when providers are in different locations but need to quickly collaborate with each other in regards to diagnoses, treatment plans, and/or referrals. Using a video-based communication platform, providers can easily connect with other providers from anywhere, at any time, and on any device. This enables the exchange of essential information — such as diagnosis, treatment and admission decisions — by connecting providers to providers in an efficient and effective manner.
In terms of delivering efficiency, communication platforms allow providers to consult with colleagues on a timely basis in order to access needed care. In a busy Emergency Department (ED), a provider can use a video-based platform to connect with another provider for a virtual consult. Seconds, minutes, or hours can be saved by eliminating the wait time involved for an offsite provider to drive to the ED in order to provide a consult. Timing is everything for many patients in the ED, and telehealth can help providers get the answers and decisions needed to treat the patients at-hand.
In terms of delivering effectiveness, virtual care technology allows a care team (which may include several providers as well as a pharmacist) to monitor patient progress in real-time and collaborate to resolve emerging patient issues. Whether the patient has been discharged to his/her home or another care facility, a provider can use a video-based platform to coordinate a multi-participant video conference call. The care team can discuss the patient’s evolving situation and expectations for the continuum of care. With the patient also integrated into the video call, the providers can confirm treatment compliance and care satisfaction while addressing medication reconciliation issues in real-time in order to minimize the risk of adverse side effects and readmissions. Convenient, productive conversations can help a provider coordinate the various members of the care team who may be separated across facilities and geographies.
Healthcare organizations are embracing technology, telehealth, and virtual care in order to deliver more timely, cost-effective, and impactful care. By facilitating provider-to-provider communications, virtual consults, visits, and meetings enable the medical team to deliver essential care that is both right and timely for the patient.