Healthcare technology is being leveraged by health systems to automate and streamline clinical and administrative processes. Innovative solutions support the patient care process and offer real-time data at the point of care.
What are telehealth-enabled stroke units?
Telehealth stroke units are specialized medical units that use telehealth technology to deliver remote stroke treatment and monitoring. They combine the expertise of stroke specialists with the convenience of telecommunication to give patients with timely and effective stroke care, especially in rural or underserved areas.
FL Health System has launched a mobile stroke unit that makes use of telehealth technology to enhance stroke care and health outcome levels. The mobile stroke unit is fully equipped with CT scanners, medications that alleviate clots that arise from strokes, and Telemedicine EMR Software equipment. The unit aims to operate by late July in Gainesville, Florida. The units also plan to offer care to villages in Jacksonville.
How does the telehealth-enabled mobile unit work?
The mobile units are staffed by UF Health and Alachua Country Fire Rescue personnel. The units have stroke-trained nurses, neurologists, and paramedic attendants available via telemedicine sessions.
Telehealth technology enables stroke doctors to assess and discuss with patients experiencing stroke symptoms from a distance. Physicians can evaluate the patient’s condition, study medical imaging (such as CT scans), and obtain pertinent information using video conferencing or other communication methods.
How will the mobile stroke units help patients?
Mobile stroke units will offer patients faster care while going to the stroke center. Healthcare providers have all the right medical equipment and assistance to diagnose and treat stroke patients, and hence reduce mortality rates. The use of mobile stroke units widens access to stroke treatment.
After initial treatment, telehealth technologies allow for continuous monitoring of stroke patients. Vital signs, neurological assessments, and other relevant data can be remotely transmitted to stroke specialists in real time. They can then monitor the patient’s progress, identify potential complications, and make necessary adjustments to the treatment plan.
Moving ahead
According to research prompt stroke treatment can improve patient outcomes. Stroke patients who receive medication within 60 minutes from the very first symptoms can be saved. This is also known as the ‘golden hour’ since it is critical for both the patient and the caregiver.
Thus, the implementation of telehealth-enabled stroke units is critical in healthcare. They aim to overcome geographical barriers, reduce treatment delays, and improve access to specialized stroke care. Timely interventions via mobile units with the necessary technology can greatly boost health outcome levels.
