Telemedicine Brings Expert Medical Care Right to the Bedside Whenever It’s Needed

Providing expert bedside medical care as soon as an unanticipated medical concern arises through our new telemedicine system has been a hit within Holy Redeemer’s Life Care communities according to Dr. Mark Mullen, who helped to bring this technology to the Lafayette Redeemer and St. Joseph Manor Life Care communities.

In comparison to a telephone assessment conducted by on-call physicians, the telemedicine system offers several state-of-the-art advantages. According to Dr. Mullen a face-to-face assessment—which telemedicine makes possible—is an important factor to help reduce potentially unnecessary trips to the hospital.

The system, which includes a special HIPPA-compliant video platform, Bluetooth stethoscope, pan-tilt camera to survey patients from different angles, special high-resolution wound camera, and EKG system provides visual AND audio capabilities. If nursing staff notices a major change in a resident’s condition, the telemedicine system gives them immediate access to an experienced, board-certified geriatric physician who uses the interactive video-based platform, special pan-tilt camera, and digital medical instruments to assess the resident.

Within our Holy Redeemer Life Care communities, the lasting benefits of telemedicine are taking root. When telemedicine physicians determine an emergent condition is not life-threatening, residents have been able to receive treatment in the comfort of their apartment or room because of the quick intervention and avoid a visit to the hospital. The attending physician can then follow up on the plan of care initiated by the telemedicine physician.

“Telemedicine—especially during the after-hours—is working out extremely well for both residents and doctors,” says Dr. Mullen.

For more information about Holy Redeemer Life Care communities visit Redeemer Life Care.