Abington (Pa.) Hospital-Jefferson Health deployed telehealth technology in its operating rooms, the first hospital in the region to do so.
The technology enables OR surgeons to virtually connect with colleagues and the patient's family in real time.
The hospital is currently using the technology to enhance its heart surgery program. Cardiothoracic surgeons are using a high-definition webcam and video-conferencing software to consult with other Philadelphia-based Jefferson Health experts during the procedure as well as talk with patients' families soon after it is over. Jefferson Health estimates the ability to immediately connect with family members cuts down the time the family waits to hear about the surgery's results by an hour.
"We take immense pride in the service we provide to families with each patient we care for," said Mauricio Garrido, MD, a cardiothoracic surgeon at the hospital. "This is demonstrated, in a very real way, by 'opening the blinds' to the classically inaccessible sanctum of the operating room and reimagining a more respectful experience for those waiting anxiously for their loved ones."