Considering implementing virtual patient observation technology within your healthcare organization? Here are eight key features and capabilities to make sure you ask potential vendors about as you evaluate solutions.
- Is the system flexible enough to support one-way and two-way audio and video capability? Video-based engagement can help care teams build rapport with patients, improving the overall experience. Other times you may want only one-way video capability – for example, if you want to observe the patient, but don’t need them to be able to see the remote observer.
- Does the camera have pan, tilt, and zoom capability that allows the remote observer to virtually navigate the patient room?
- Is there an alerting and notification system that allows virtual observers to deploy clinical staff to the patient bedside quickly when needed?
- Does the camera have night vision capabilities so that staff can clearly observe patients when the room is dark?
- Does the system support interpreter service integration to ensure equitable care for patients with limited English proficiency (LEP)? Look for solutions that support multiple languages and are available 24/7.
- What types of reporting and analytics does the system provide to help you demonstrate ROI back to your organization?
- Can the software be delivered with a mobile cart or wall-mounted system? Can the hardware be installed from the ceiling or the wall, based on your room configuration? If you already have camera capability in the room, can the software integrate easily into your existing telehealth system or will you need to use a different device for each application?
- Is the technology scalable? What additional costs might there be if you want to leverage the solution across multiple facilities? What are the applicable licensing fees?
Learn more about key considerations that can help ensure long-term ROI on your virtual patient observation initiatives by downloading our white paper Best Practices for Tele-Sitting and Virtual Patient Observation.