Philippi, W.Va.-based Broaddus Hospital developed a telehealth program that allows patients with diabetes to teleconference with a dietician or a certified diabetes educator instead of traveling to the hospital for an appointment, The Record Delta reports.
Broaddus Hospital is collaborating with Davis Medical Center in Elkins, W.Va., on the services, so hospital providers can refer patients to Davis Medical Center's diabetes specialists for virtual appointments. Patients who opt to try the telehealth program receive the same type of care as patients who visit the medical center in person, according to Jim Severino, DMC's director of nutrition services, according to the report.
"We talk with patients about goals, healthy eating habits and meal planning," Mr. Severino said. "Being able to talk via a teleconference saves the patient time and money because the need for travel is eliminated. Care is less costly, quicker and more convenient."