TeleHealth
The program, Telehealth, was introduced in 2002. Telehealth is a term that describes the use of telecommunications technologies in the delivery of health care services.
Video Telehealth visits occur between a Telehealth nurse and patient on a prearranged schedule to monitor disease specific outcomes, weight, blood oxygenation levels, and blood pressure readings. Patient information is provided to the attending physician on a regular basis.
Currently we offer three Telehealth Programs and several plans to meet physician and patient needs:
• Health Management Program - The Health Management Program is a medical/educational model, which incorporates the latest technology using a video-enhanced Tele-monitor to make visits in the client's home. The Program includes at least one home visit, specific health education, equipment set up, and establishment of a Plan of Care. After the initial education weekly Telehealth visits will be made. Includes ongoing communication and a report to the client's physician
• T-L-C Program / Tele-Link-Companion - The T-L-C program is a social/educational model, which incorporates the latest technology using a video-enhanced Tele-monitor to make visits in the client's home. The Program includes one home visit, equipment set up, and establishment of a Plan of Care. After the initial education weekly Telehealth visits are made to assess the client, give information, check medication, vital signs, cognitive changes, and provide socialization. Includes a report to the physician when appropriate. Includes a report to a designated family member (if agreed to by the client).
Who pays for Telehealth Services?
Some private insurance companies may pay for Telehealth services and our staff will work out the details with the patient’s insurance. We also utilize Telehealth visits with certain Medicare patients who require frequent home care visits to monitor rehabilitation progress, disease symptoms and patient compliance.
Additionally, many patients and their families choose to pay privately for Telehealth services to afford some peace of mind, knowing the patient will be closely monitored and have access during regular work hours to a nurse who may communicate directly with their physician to report any new or developing symptoms with their disease.
For information on any of our Telehealth services, please contact
Pam Wood, Director of Home Health Clinical Programs, at (951) 413-1290 or pam.wood@vna-ic.org.
