Medical professionals must make quick, informed decisions in the constantly evolving healthcare industry to ensure the best possible outcome. Amidst the fast-paced evolution of technology in modern medicine, virtual rounding has emerged as a popular mode of care delivery. Despite its recent surge in popularity, the concept of virtual rounding has been around for quite some time and has gradually gained acceptance among care providers.

Virtual rounding is an innovative solution that utilizes audio and video tools to conduct remote patient rounds, empowering practitioners to connect and collaborate in real-time, regardless of location. High-quality hardware, reliable telehealth platforms, and quality medical carts are essential for fostering effective communication and delivering top-quality care. With the right tools, healthcare teams can revolutionize the traditional healthcare paradigm and unlock limitless opportunities for resource optimization and cost reduction.

The Advantages of Making Rounds Via Video Conference

1. Perform Rounds at Multiple Facilities a Day

Performing daily rounds at multiple facilities is a common practice for practitioners, but managing time and resources can be challenging. However, with the advent of virtual rounding, practitioners can now perform rounds remotely and overcome the limitations of physical travel.

A study published in Oxford Academia confirms that virtual rounding enhances job satisfaction and saves valuable time. With high-quality audio and video technology breaking down the barriers of time and location, specialists can collaborate seamlessly, providing timely and effective treatment.

2. Easy Consultations

In the wake of the COVID-19 crisis, UC San Diego Health deployed Virtual Visits, a remote rounding tool that integrated mobile devices and collaboration platforms. “From a provider perspective, not only are you able to provide the same level of care, but you’re able to do a better job of making sure your team is informed,” says Dr. Brett Meyer, Medical Director of Enterprise Telemedicine, UC San Diego Health.
 

Over time, virtual rounding significantly enhanced provider learning by enabling real-time collaboration and exchanging medical images, improving decision-making and patient outcomes.

3. Synchronized Access to Data with Electronic Health Records (EHR)

In today's healthcare landscape, the amount of medical information generated can be overwhelming. Integrating a telehealth platform with a hospital's EHR allows providers to access patients' records easily through a medical device, enabling collaborative care and improving hospital workflow. The virtual rounding software can also integrate with the e-prescription system, improving hospital workflow.

EHRs streamline healthcare operations and improve patient outcomes by eliminating paper records and enhancing data security. However, this ease of access risks data leaks and unintentional sharing of protected health information (PHI). It is important to remember that virtual rounding platforms must comply with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA) regulations to protect sensitive patient information. 

How to Choose the Right Virtual Rounding Solution

Virtual rounding is a powerful tool that requires a well-thought-out strategy. By prioritizing factors such as audio and video quality, ease of use, and scalability, medical providers can select the right virtual rounding solution for optimal patient outcomes.

The Right Technology on the Right Cart

Medical practitioners should choose a platform that integrates with EHR and is HIPAA compliant to protect data, along with high-performance hardware like a secure laptop or tablet. Mobile medical carts with audio and video technology are also essential for remote care, with a securely mounted tablet providing stability and flexibility. Factors to consider when choosing the right virtual rounding cart:

High Mobility: Lightweight and flexible mobile carts glide effortlessly on four wheels, traveling securely and easily handling even carpets.

Rapid Deployment: Easy to set up and deploy fast. They have a small footprint, making them handy.

Device Compatibility: To cater to the needs of medical providers, invest in carts that are compatible with all major OEM manufacturers.

Full Customization: It’s important to have a full range of custom and adjustable brackets designed to hold any medical device, computer, or AV equipment.
 

Create Comprehensive Training Programs

A well-trained care team is essential for the success of your practice. To improve the quality of care, ensure that staff members are up to date with your latest virtual care technology and workflows. Providers can achieve this by educating teams on the tools and principles of virtual care, familiarizing them with their virtual rounding solution and privacy laws, providing hands-on training, and conducting role-playing sessions.

Embracing the Future of Healthcare with Virtual Rounding

With the ability to connect remote healthcare providers in real-time, virtual rounding offers a level of efficiency and collaboration that traditional rounding methods simply cannot match. Technological equipment such as virtual rounding carts provide higher mobility, easier patient data access, and eliminate the risk of infectious disease exposure from physical contact. Its ease of adoption and greater accessibility make virtual rounding essential to the modern healthcare system, creating a more effective, efficient, and compassionate approach to patient care.