The Nepean Blue Mountains Local Health District's Virtual Care team works closely with teams across the District to allow health care staff to connect with their patients from anywhere they are.
Manager for Virtual Care, Tanya Baldacchino, spoke to the role virtual care plays in breaking down the barriers to health care access for patients from communities across the District.
“Virtual care is an important option in ensuring patients can access timely, safe and high-quality healthcare,” says Tanya.
“It enables us to use our limited resources more effectively and empowers patients by giving them a choice in how they receive care, where that’s appropriate.”
“We want to support both clinicians and patients in feeling confident to use virtual care, ensuring they have a positive experience and good health outcomes,” says Tanya.
The team have been busy expanding and improving virtual care delivery, including the recent endorsement of the Virtual Care Implementation Plan, which highlights objectives such as enhancing education and training for staff, increasing the collection and use of data, innovation and research.
The Haematology Department have recently adapted their service delivery, now offering monthly telehealth clinics to their patients.
Haematologist Staff Specialist, Anita Shetty says the key benefit to patients is the convenience.
“By offering this service, we reduce the need for long-distance travel while still ensuring optimal care, supported by the nursing team at Lithgow,” says Anita.
“Patients receive efficient and effective treatment, and those who meet the criteria for telehealth are carefully considered based on their acuity and the necessity for in-person examinations.”
Speak to your health care professional to discuss your virtual care options.
