Hands on eyes on, virtual theatre support

Overview

Initiative type

Model of Care

Status

Close

Published

26 August 2021

Summary

Central Queensland Hospital and Health Service (CQHHS) has used the Covid-19 pandemic to develop videoconference facilities that can directly connect the specialist services of Rockhampton with a rural theatre (Emerald) to provide urgent lifesaving support.

Key dates

Aug 2020 - May 2021

Implementation sites

Central Queensland HHS

Partnerships

eHealth, HIU Telehealth Support Unit, Emerald Hospital, Rockhampton Hospital

Aim

To ensure rural sites in Central Queensland HHS have access to specialist services within the operating theatre environment.

Outcomes

This interventional telehealth model which operates 24/7 includes lives saved among its promising early results. CQHHS hopes to expand it into other services within the HHS.

It also has provided the opportunity for collegial support to rural generalist caring for the patient and it brings the services to the location of the patient.

Background

To access the necessary health services in rural Hospital and Health Services requires innovative planning with the equipment that is available.

Methods

Combining telehealth technology with intuitive design, Central Queensland is now able to deliver the same uncompromising in-the-room attendance virtually. Emerald Hospital staff now can videoconference with Rockhampton Hospital specialist services such as Surgical and Obstetric, and Gynaecology directly into theatre. A 24-hour, seven days a week access with process flowchart, in now set-up.

Discussion

Initial informal feedback from staff and patients has been positive and all participants are wanting to continue and expand this model of care.

One patient was provided lifesaving support and urgent theatre intervention by videoconference prior to aerial transport to Brisbane and one patient was able to be assisted virtually, rather than being retrieved and then remain at Emerald Hospital post-operatively to recover.

Lessons learnt

  • access to specialist services during hours and after-hours is vital for rural facilities,
  • equipment procurement, installation requirements and staff resources are challenging within a pandemic.
  • patients were accepting of the model.
  • there were technical challenges with specialised equipment being used outside of its normal use.

Key contact

Christina McInally

Telehealth Coordinator Clinical Nurse Consultant

Central Queensland Hospital and Health Service

Email:  christina.mcinally@health.qld.gov.au

Last updated: August 2021

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