Virtual Emergency Room
Through advanced technology, we add the expertise of board-certified emergency physicians to the on-site care team. These doctors collaborate virtually with on-site staff to provide you with the same high level of care offered by our in-person physicians.
What is a virtual emergency room?
Virtual emergency care is provided within a hospital’s emergency department (ED). An experienced emergency care doctor will meet with you through a video conference and advanced digital assessment tools to determine the care you need. A nurse and technician will also be present to provide in-person care in conjunction with the virtual physician.
How does it work?
When you come to the emergency department, a triage nurse will see you to review your symptoms and determine what type of care you need. If the nurse decides your symptoms make you a good fit for virtual emergency care, you will be taken to a room equipped with the tools to do a virtual visit.
The room is equipped with a mobile cart that has audio and video capabilities, including a screen that allows you to see and interact with the doctor. With the help of the nurse in the room, the emergency care doctor will assess your condition using digital tools also located on the mobile cart.
Those tools may include:
- A high-resolution, high-definition camera to observe your symptoms or injuries more closely.
- A digital stethoscope to hear breathing and cardiac sounds.
- A digital otoscope and ophthalmoscope to see inside your ears and eyes.
The doctor may order tests or imaging and the on-site care team will provide those services. In most cases, the doctor will diagnose you and give you a treatment plan, sending you on your way as quickly as possible. If at any time the care team thinks you need to be seen in person by a doctor, you will be transferred to appropriate area within the ED.
Benefits of a virtual emergency room
Virtual technology makes it possible for emergency department staff to ensure that every patient gets timely, high-quality care with shorter wait times.
There are certain times of day when the ED is typically crowded, and virtual emergency care allows ED staff to care for more patients at one time. This also allows in-person emergency care physicians to focus on patients who are in the most critical condition.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
How do you decide if I will see a doctor virtually or in person?
When you arrive at the ED, you will be seen by a triage nurse who will assess your symptoms. If your symptoms are less severe, you may be a good candidate for virtual emergency care.
Can I trust a virtual doctor to accurately assess my condition?
Yes. Your doctor is an emergency physician trained to use advanced virtual care equipment and technology that will allow for accurate and trusted clinical assessments.
What if I am not comfortable using technology?
You will not have to use the technology yourself. A nurse or technician will be in the room with you to help as you interact with the virtual emergency care doctor.
What do I do if my symptoms change during the visit?
If your symptoms change, immediately notify your on-site nurse or technician.