Revolutionizing Healthcare Delivery

The average NICU length of stay (LOS) for infants discharged home in the program was 8.1 days lower than the control group (approximately 33% lower than the overall average NICU LOS). (https://doi.org/10.1111/chd.12693)

Percentage of oral feeds increased significantly in the remote patient monitoring infant group, from a 12% increase prior to discharge to a 57% increase at home, indicating the benefit of developing full oral skills outside the hospital setting.

Objectives

• Transform and improve the outdated paper process of recording vitals with a binder and pencil and instead virtually connect families with the clinical team in an integrated care model post hospital discharge

• Keep the care team connected in the same way they would if the infant had remained in the hospital

• Reduce length of stay for premature infants admitted to the UVA Children’s Hospital Neonatal ICU

• Increase quality of life for families

• Improve the quality and timeliness of transitions home while ensuring that these infants thrive in the same way if not more quickly than infants in the hospital

• Increase the capacity of the NICU by improving throughput and freeing up beds

Model

The Building HOPE program is a pediatric remote monitoring program that enables a clinical connection for follow-up care and communication with families who can care for their infants at home post hospital discharge.

Initially developed for parents of infants with congenital heart disease, the program has expanded to include other conditions. Parents of infants who are eligible to be remotely monitored are provided with a personalized tablet with a pre-loaded app that enables them to “take the care team home” with them at discharge. Families are shown how to enter key metrics (e.g. daily weights, daily feeding intake, output, SpO2) and how to identify and understand the same trends observed daily by the clinical team.

In addition, the clinical team provides timely educational content directly through the tablet that otherwise would have been sent home in an infrequently used binder of printed materials. Parents can use secure photo and video capabilities through the app to support critical interaction with the care teams, including support for lactation consults.

Neonatology teams use the platform to both round virtually and review alert notifications through the mobile app for clinicians. This aids in helping the care team manage each patient case and identify trends outside of acceptable parameters well in advance of possible emergent events.

Ways Telehealth Can Benefit Neonatal Care

Neonatal or newborn health focuses on the health of newborns within the first 28-30 days of life. Some important health concerns that may arise for newborns include preterm birth, respiratory problems, low blood sugar, and infections. In severe cases, newborns may even require specialized care in a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). Not all hospitals are equipped with NICU facilities, and many do not have specialists required to manage NICU cases. For families in rural areas, barriers due to transportation and lack of access to specialists are common.

Telehealth and remote patient monitoring present a unique solution to address these barriers and improve health outcomes for patients both in the NICU and at home, while also reducing overall costs for the health system.

your baby, an HealthLinkRemote can be helpful. Here are some of the things your HealthLinkRemote can provide.

.Latch and positioning tutorials

Baby weight checks, both pre- and post-feeding (for in person)

.Customized plans to help with feeding goals

Breast pump fange measurements and tutorials on pump use.Instruction on when and how to introduce a bottle.Guidance with baby's struggling to take a bottle

. Prenatal consultations to address and plan for anticipated or previous feeding concerns.Newborn care tips related to sleep, soothing, bathing, and more

Prenatal Teleconsultations:

Prepare for the journey of motherhood with our Prenatal Teleconsultations. Pregnancy is a remarkable time filled with excitement and anticipation, but it can also bring about questions and concerns. Our Prenatal Teleconsultations connect you with experienced healthcare professionals from the comfort of your home. Whether you're seeking guidance on nutrition, managing discomfort, or simply want reassurance about your baby's development, our team is here to provide personalized support every step of the way. With our convenient and accessible service, you can embark on your pregnancy journey with confidence and peace of mind.

Remote Neonatal Care Support:

Welcoming a newborn into the world is a joyous occasion, but it can also be overwhelming for new parents. Our Remote Neonatal Care Support service offers assistance and guidance during this critical time. From learning essential newborn care techniques to addressing common concerns such as feeding, sleeping, and soothing, our team of experts is available to provide support remotely. With our compassionate and knowledgeable guidance, you can navigate the early days of parenthood with confidence, ensuring the health and well-being of your precious little one.

Remote Breastfeeding Support:

Breastfeeding is a beautiful and natural way to nourish your baby, but it can come with its challenges. Our Remote Breastfeeding Support service is here to offer assistance and encouragement to mothers on their breastfeeding journey. Whether you're experiencing difficulties with latching, milk supply, or any other aspect of breastfeeding, our team of lactation consultants is ready to provide personalized guidance and support remotely. We understand that every breastfeeding experience is unique, and we are dedicated to helping you overcome any obstacles you may encounter, so you can enjoy the bonding experience and health benefits that breastfeeding provides.

Contact us for more information