Project Echo – Telementoring for Complex Health Conditions

Project echo is a form of telementoring, which connects primary care doctors with multi-disciplinary teams. This approach is designed to improve the care for patients suffering from complicated health conditions, particularly in rural and underserved communities.

The ECHO model, created in 2003 by the University of New Mexico, focuses on treating the hepatitis C in prisons and populations that are underserved. The ECHO model has since been replicated around the world in numerous clinical areas, including asthma, diabetes, chronic pain, and Rheumatology. The ECHO model is supported by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality and the GE Foundation, and the Leona M. and Harry B Helmsley Charitable Trust.

In ECHO sessions participants present unidentified case studies and participate in group discussion with experts on content via videoconferencing. In this “all-teach and learn” format, the experts share their expertise and knowledge to answer questions, give feedback, and provide recommendations.

The ECHO model also allows remote monitoring of patient outcomes. Specialists from the University of New Mexico monitor the plans of each community provider’s treatment to ensure that their patients receive high-quality care. They may make adjustments at mid-course if a patient does not adhere to the prescribed therapy. This can prevent treatment failure and increases the chances of a positive outcome. Furthermore, specialists can use the ECHO system to track data and identify gaps in care. This information is then given to local physicians to enable them to better serve their patients.

http://projectechonevada.com/best-healthcare-providers-in-2021/