Atlanta-based Emory Healthcare is partnering with Andor Health to implement virtual patient observer technology within its hospital facilities with the aim of mitigating the risks of falls and addressing safety issues among hospitalized patients.
In November, Emory will pilot virtual observation technology from Andor Health at two of its hospitals. Emory will use the technology to remotely monitor patients at risk on medical and surgical floors and in emergency departments, according to a Nov. 6 news release from Andor.
Andor Health's virtual observers work by collaborating with registered nurses stationed in a control center and employing voice-activated technology to communicate with patients at risk remotely.
The virtual observers offer reminders to patients to remain in bed and request assistance and will notify Emory Healthcare staff on the premises of any safety concerns. The monitoring services will be available around the clock, according to the news release.
During the initial year of the collaboration, Emory Healthcare will allocate resources to incorporate Andor Health's virtual patient observer technology into 32 inpatient rooms.
Emory eventually plans to expand the technology to an additional 50 rooms in the second year of the collaboration.