LAKEPORT, Calif. – Sutter Lakeside Hospital announced a pilot neonatal telemedicine program in partnership with Sutter Santa Rosa Regional Hospital (SSRRH), beginning June 6.
Through generous philanthropic funding at SSRRH, Sutter Lakeside Hospital’s Family Birth Center received one telemonitor unit, which connects an on-call neonatologist with the on-site newborn care team, should the need arise for immediate expert consultation.
“Immediate access to a neonatologist will help support specialty care for our infants born at Sutter Lakeside,” said Jackie Rad, RNC, MSN, Sutter Lakeside Hospital Family Birth Center manager. “A neonatologist specializes in caring for sick or premature babies. On-site telemedicine allows the specialist to visually assess sick infants and provide real time care recommendations to our doctors.”
Each telemonitor comes equipped with one stationary and one mobile camera, which allows nurses to manipulate the neonatologist’s view as directed. The teams communicate via video live stream.
“Giving the neonatologist a visual on an unusual rash or other abnormal symptoms can help our team make informed decisions on whether or not we should transfer a patient,” said Rad. “In addition, when time is critical, a visual assessment allows the specialist to better determine the most appropriate level of care for a sick baby.”
“The rural setting of Lake County can present barriers that only the most innovative technology can overcome,” said Siri Nelson, chief administrative officer, Sutter Lakeside Hospital. “We’re thankful for the ability to partner within the Sutter system to access the necessary care when our patients need it most.”
The Family Birth Center, which averages about one transfer per month, has already facilitated training on how to operate the telemonitor for its nurses and doctors.
“We love how easy the monitor is to use,” said Dee Allison, RN, Family Birth Center. “It’s an added safety measure that we can’t wait to get up and running.”
Sutter Lakeside Hospital will serve as the pioneer satellite campus for the neonatal telemedicine partnership, with the goal of providing feedback to help form a program for all qualifying Sutter affiliates.
The grant provides funds for two years, and aims to expand beyond Sutter Lakeside Hospital during year two of the project.
“This technology is truly cutting edge,” said Rad. “Because of our partnership with Sutter Santa Rosa Regional Hospital, we’re able to provide care above and beyond the current standard while reducing unnecessary transfers and improving response times. We’re thrilled to be the pilot affiliate, and excited to help shape neonatal telemedicine within the Sutter system.”
To learn more about Sutter Lakeside, or schedule a tour, please visit www.sutterlakeside.org/ or call 707-262-5121.
Morgen Wells is Community Relations & Fund Development specialist for Sutter Lakeside Hospital.