A new hospital that allows patients to be treated virtually while remaining at home in their own beds has been unveiled.
The country’s first standalone nationally accredited virtual hospital is in Adelaide.
It looks like a call centre, but nurses are doing virtual ward rounds.
That includes reviewing wounds via photos sent by patients.
The hospital is a joint venture between Calvary and Medibank, delivering My Home Hospital for SA Health.
It allows emergency departments and wards to be freed up for those who need them most.
But visits are made to patients, and if somebody becomes unwell a paramedic can be sent.
Dr Emily Kirkpatrick, executive medical director, said everything can be done while the patient stays in their own bed.
“These patients can be really unwell often needing blood tests, imaging, oxygen therapy. all of that we deliver directly to the patient in their home,” Kirkpatrick said.
“We see this being a true game changer as to how we’re going to deliver future health care in this nation.”
Peter Ellis became unwell suddenly with a leg infection and needs IV antibiotics.
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His doctor now checks in daily via a tablet from Macquarie Park in Sydney.
“It’s just a nicer experience,” Ellis said.
“Even though the nurses at the hospital are great, it’s just nice to be in your own house.. and no hospital food.”
COVID-19 forced a rethink of medical care.
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Some hospitals have opened virtual wards, but My Home Hospital is the first nationally-credited standalone operator, admitting public patients straight from GPs, ambulance call-outs or other hospitals.
The hospital currently has around 100 patients.
At a time when the nation’s health system is under increasing pressure, other states are watching what’s happening closely.
Home care also means a lower rate of hospital-acquired complications.
Federal Health Minister Mark Butler told Nine News he’s monitoring “to see how it might be adapted to further improve the accessibility of services across Australia”.
