Document Type

Article

Publication Date

Fall 2014

Abstract

Objectives: A tele-intensive care unit (tele-ICU) uses telemedicine in an intensive care unit (ICU) setting, applying technology to provide care to critically ill patients by off-site clinical resources. The purpose of this review was to examine the implementation, adoption, and utilization of tele-ICU systems by hospitals to determine their efficiency and efficacy as identified by cost savings and patient outcomes.

Methods: This literature review examined a large number of studies of implementa­tion of tele-ICU systems in hospitals.

Results: The evidence supporting cost savings was mixed. Implementation of a tele- ICU system was associated with cost savings, shorter lengths of stay, and decreased mortality. However, two studies suggested increased hospital cost after implementa­tion of tele-ICUs is initially expensive but eventually results in cost savings and better clinical outcomes.

Conclusions: Intensivists working these systems are able to more effectively treat ICU patients, providing better clinical outcomes for patients at lower costs compared with hospitals without a tele-ICU.

Comments

The copy of record is available at http://dx.doi.org/10.7812/TPP/14-004. Reprinted from The Permanente Journal, Vol 18(4), Coustasse A, Deslich S, Bailey D, Hairston A, Paul D. A business case for tele-intensive care units. 76-84 © 2014 with permission from The Permanente Press at http://www.thepermanentejournal.org/. All rights reserved.

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