To reduce the potential of serious outbreaks in long-term care during COVID-19, physicians are encouraged to practice virtual medicine, where appropriate. To be effective, physicians and senior leadership, must strive for excellent communications and timely access to physicians. Studies have shown that the use of telemedicine in caring for nursing home residents can facilitate better patient care and overall cost savings through reducing unnecessary hospital transfers to the emergency department and subsequent hospitalizations.
If the home needs to be physically attended to, physicians are encouraged to do targeted on-site visits and consider charting remotely. Telemedicine in long-term care can contribute to the delivery of high-quality medical care reducing avoidable hospitalizations. Utilizing virtual care where appropriate can ensure protection of health care workers while still maintaining effective communication with staff and residents’ families. Appropriate systems level optimization can be created so that physicians can effectively advocate for older residents who are especially vulnerable to contracting COVID-19. The pandemic has further illustrated the need to provide timely access to care to assess acute change in status including respiratory complaints and hypoactive delirium. For more information:
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