Improved technology will allow ThedaCare At Home patients to take more control over their health. ThedaCare At Home is partnering with Health Recovery Solutions (HRS) of Hoboken, N.J., to provide patients with Bluetooth-enabled tablets that can transmit their vital signs to clinicians. The tablets also allow patients to hold videoconferences with their registered nurse case manager.
“The new software improves our capability to provide patients with the best possible care,” said Kathy Weiher, ThedaCare At Home telehealth manager. “These tools help patients become more engaged in their health. If patients can better manage their health and make improvements, it will help keep them out of the hospital.”
Patients use a wireless, Bluetooth-enabled tablet that has video capabilities, blood-pressure and digital weight monitors and a pulse oximeter. The device transmits vital sign and symptom information to patients’ in real time and also triggers alerts for patients at high risk of a medical emergency, Weiher said. The telehealth services compliment home visits by ThedaCare At Home nurses.
“Most of the patients using these telehealth services have chronic diseases, including diabetes, hypertension, chronic heart problems or lung diseases,” she said. “If we see weight gain, it signifies our patients are retaining more fluid due to their chronic disease condition and likely heading into trouble.”
Patients can also watch video education programs related to their health issue on the tablet, Weiher said. “This technology gives patients more education about their disease and their current condition,” she said.
