Patients at a Jefferson Health emergency department in Philadelphia might see a clinician on screen before seeing one in person with the hospital’s “tele-triage,” arrangement, according to an article on the HealthTech website.
By speaking via secure video chat a doctor or physician assistant can gather information and even approve a discharge without taking up a bed or treatment room.
“We can evaluate a patient that may or may not have the flu or a cold or COVID, and you don’t have to put a provider in there with them.” said Dr. Judd Hollander, senior vice president for healthcare delivery innovation at Jefferson Health.
Treating incoming patients in a separate part of a care facility also helps avoid cross-contamination. Patients who screen positive in ambulatory care settings can be given a tablet and isolated in an exam room.
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