6 Myths of Video Patient Monitoring Systems
Don’t let these six video patient monitoring myths sabotage your patient safety success. Learn the truth about video patient monitoring in hospitals and why there’s never been a better time to get started.
- Violation of privacy laws / HIPAA
Considering safeguards are taken to protect the patient’s privacy, video patient monitoring platforms are an acceptable tool to use. Audio and video feeds should not be recorded. Data encryption should be implemented at rest and in transit. A Business Associate Agreement (BAA) should be executed before any PHI is transmitted.
- Patient consent is required
According to the Joint Commission, no consent is required1. However, as a facility is formulating its virtual patient monitoring policy, they may determine that informed consent is the best practice. Thorough education is required, for patients and their representatives, regarding the rationale for remote video monitoring as well as how it works. As always, it is a patient’s right to opt-out of the monitoring, but every effort should be made to help them understand the benefits. In addition, facilities are encouraged to have signage or other active reminders that recording is taking place.
- Remote Patient Monitoring Systems are costly (ROI)
There is a notable cost associated with virtual patient monitoring systems. But, in return, the implementation of the system can have a significant impact on a facility’s cost savings. The ROI is generally dependent on the use case(s) and the metrics associated. Some things to consider that may have a direct impact on ROI are the patient population that will be monitored, workflow, technological requirements, and staffing ratios. Your RPM partner should be able to help you define what your ROI and overall cost savings estimate will be.
- Removes human interaction
Video monitoring is not intended to completely remove the human touch. The virtual approach is intended to be used as an augmentation to in-person patient care. It allows for quicker response times to safety concerns, improved patient outcomes, data collection for telehealth visits, remote access to care, and countless other benefits. It can also be a tool to indicate when face-to-face care is a priority versus an issue that may not warrant an in-person visit.
- Use cases are limited
The possibilities are endless when it comes to reasons to use a video patient monitoring system and the benefits associated with that system. The most obvious motivation is cost savings. Using a virtual platform for sitter reduction or to provide increased visualization for at-risk patients and decrease adverse events can have a direct impact on a P&L. More and more, telehealth and virtual rounding are being utilized as an alternative means for providers to have access to their patients from a distance. Virtual platforms can usually be tailored to fit the needs of the facility, whatever that may be. The specific goals of an organization should be taken into consideration when looking for a solution.
- Implementation is complex and time-consuming
In this digital age, where virtual platforms have become the norm rather than the exception, implementation of these solutions couldn’t be easier. Conversations in the planning phase will propel an action plan to ensure proper connectivity. Resources may vary, such as in a facility located in an urban area versus a rural area, but generally, a solution can be designed that will be favorable for implementation.
Experience the CareView difference
Digital health, using information and communication technology to enhance the efficiency of healthcare delivery and personalization, can greatly improve care and outcomes. Video patient monitoring can be an appropriate intervention for monitoring patients at risk for falls, self-harm, substance abuse, or suicide along with a comprehensive patient safety program with internal policies and procedures.
As the leader in video patient monitoring solutions, CareView is redefining the standard of patient safety in hospitals. The CareView difference is in the patented artificial intelligence (AI) of our technology that helps transform nurses’ roles and enhance patient care. Leveraging CareView’s patented Virtual Bed Rails® and Virtual Chair Rails® predictive technology, the CareView Patient Safety System uses machine learning to differentiate between normal patient movements and behaviors of an at-risk patient. This results in fewer false alarms, quicker staff interventions, and a significant reduction in patient falls.
Additionally, unlike competitors, CareView offers a full-service solution:
- A turn-key solution for maintaining patient safety
The CareView Patient Safety System is a managed platform service, there is no software installation, it is all browser-based. CareView is responsible for the management, monitoring, and maintenance of the entire Patient Safety System® platform while under contract.
- Implementation in as little as 6 weeks from contract to Go Live
CareView works with each hospital system to customize implementation and clinical workflows. Onboarding processes typically take 6-8 weeks and involve several meetings between CareView and the hospital’s Clinical, IT, Security, Biomed, and Plant Operations teams. CareView provides training services to ensure hospital staff is qualified and capable of using the platform effectively. Training is provided virtually or in person, as well as support for learning management systems and leaving behind collateral.
- Dedicated account support
CareView assists our partner organizations in designing a hospital fall prevention and safety program that meets both patient safety goals and sitter cost reduction objectives, as well as a robust training program to assist caregivers in quickly learning and mastering the system. Additionally, CareView partners have access to 24/7, 365 support and a dedicated client success manager.
- Ability for integration
At CareView, we believe clinical workflow integration is imperative for your success. CareView integrates seamlessly with your health system’s electronic health record (EHR) and nurse communication systems to maximize clinical workflows and improve response times, providing a total system solution without additional costs and paving the way for a new paradigm in the way care is delivered.
- Patient privacy measures
Because patient privacy is important, the CareView Patient Safety System® features a privacy option mode that can be utilized when needed. When activated, the camera is blocked for a period, allowing patient and family privacy. Additionally, the monitoring system is a live feed, so the video is not recorded.
To learn more about the CareView Patient Safety System® and receive a free ROI assessment request a demo.
References:
- Informed Consent – Security Cameras. (2021, April 16). The Joint Commission Standards FAQs, Ambulatory, Rights and Responsibilities of the Individual RI. Retrieved from https://www.jointcommission.org/standards/standard-faqs/ambulatory/rights-and-responsibilities-of-the-individual-ri/000001702/#:~:text=The%20Joint%20Commission%20patient%20privacy,greatly%20from%20state%20to%20state