by Since the onset of the pandemic, doctors and patients both found that telehealth options simplify life. Patients access care without traveling, and medical professionals treat more patients during a typical day. However, the advancement of telehealth also required the adaptation of new technology and associated devices to ensure the appropriate level of care is provided quickly and safely. One device that’s seen a significant increase in use is telemedicine carts.
How are Telemedicine Carts Used?
Telemedicine carts are designed to securely hold a tablet so care providers can communicate or input data as needed comfortably. A telemedicine cart is a relatively simple device, meaning no training is required to use one. The devices accommodate most tablets used in medical settings and are easy to set up. Doctors, nurses, and other care providers can use the devices in most environments, and the carts are easy to move from room to room.
The use of telehealth appointments is almost certain to increase in the future. Its use has pros and cons, but most experts agree that health care is changing, and telehealth visits provide a way for patients to acquire care regardless of their location or personal health situation.
Where Do Medical Professionals Use the Carts?
Telemedicine carts are useful during telehealth appointments, as medical professionals don’t have to hold a device physically. Their hands are free to review charts or test results without interrupting the conversation with a patient. Users can also check patients in for appointments or in emergency room settings. Since the devices are versatile, doctors and other medical professionals find they use the carts throughout their day for various applications.
Reasons to Consider Using Telemedicine Carts
Although the carts are recommended for telemedicine, they are useful in many healthcare settings. Users can pan or rotate the carts to meet specialized needs while providing care. Different mounts are available to support monitors and other devices.
Another advantage of the carts is their ease of use in settings where noise would be inappropriate. The carts are constructed using wheels and other components that create virtually no noise during use. That’s a crucial benefit in hospitals where care providers don’t wish to disturb patients unnecessarily while they’re resting.
Quality Carts Support Safety Measures
Safety is also a major issue for care providers. Telehealth carts use easy-to-clean and sanitize materials, which means a quick wipe is generally sufficient for preventing the spreading of contaminants. While healthcare providers are always concerned about safety, the pandemic pushed sanitation measures to a new level. Safety is essential even when patients are not physically present, as disruptions due to accidents interrupt appointments and cause additional problems for everyone involved.
Another element of safety is preventing accidents. If a cart tips over, valuable instruments can be destroyed, or anyone in the area could suffer injuries. A quality telehealth cart is designed to prevent those types of accidents. Preventing accidents reduces overall operating costs and enhances the personal safety of users and patients.
Assessing an Organization’s Needs Is Step One
Not all healthcare providers share the same needs, so assessing them carefully before ordering new equipment makes sense. However, the versatility of telehealth carts suggests they are valuable assets for most providers, especially since the use of telehealth appointments is expected to increase in the near future.
