Accepted for/Published in: JMIR mHealth and uHealth
Date Submitted: May 18, 2020
Date Accepted: Sep 22, 2020
Date Submitted to PubMed: Oct 2, 2020
Solving Community SARS-CoV-2 Testing with Telehealth
ABSTRACT
Background:
Telehealth has emerged as a crucial component in the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic response effort due to the ability to provide care from a distance. Jefferson Health is leveraging its acute care telehealth platform to screen and manage patients with COVID-19 related concerns.
Objective:
The aim of this paper is to outline how to integrate telehealth and testing sites to decrease clinician and patient exposure in a health care setting, to maximize efficient use of PPE, and increase safe access to COVID-19 related testing and management in the community setting.
Methods:
Screening algorithms for patients with SARS-CoV-2 related complaints were created, and 150 new clinicians were trained within 72 hours to address increased patient demand. Simultaneously, Jefferson Health created mobile testing sites throughout eastern Pennsylvania and the southern New Jersey region.
Results:
From March 08 - April 11, 2020, 4663 patients were screened using telehealth, 1521 were sent to mobile testing sites and followed-up by telephone for results. Of the patients that were tested, nearly 20% (301) had a positive result.
Conclusions:
Our model demonstrates how using telehealth for referral to central testing sites can increase access to community-based care, decrease clinician exposure, and minimize demand for personal protective equipment. This innovation may allow healthcare systems to focus on preparing for and delivering hospital-based care needs. Clinical Trial: IRB exemption on file
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Copyright
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