Stanford Medicine ED Telehealth Program Case Study

This case study outlines the implementation and outcomes of the Virtual Visit Track (VVT) program at Stanford Medicine's emergency departments (EDs) aimed at reducing wait times for lower acuity patients. The VVT was initiated in response to increasing ED overcrowding and the COVID-19 pandemic, which necessitated minimizing in-person contact. The program transformed the existing Fast Track care unit into a virtual model, allowing remote physicians to evaluate patients located at the ED. The study details the clinical problem of longer ED lengths of stay for lower acuity patients and the metrics established to measure the program's success, including patient satisfaction and ED length of stay. It also describes the multidisciplinary team involved in the program's design and implementation, the technology utilized, and the training provided to staff. The findings from this case study may inform similar programs in various healthcare settings where remote patient evaluation is necessary.