2011 Archive

Telepulmonology Program Launched at UHC

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Created on Friday, 14 October 2011 10:48

Union Hospital Clinton now offers telepulmonology services. As with other telemedicine services provided by Union Hospital Clinton, physicians will be able to remotely consult with a pulmonary specialist to most effectively and efficiently treat patients, and provide a higher level of specialty care. The program will save many patients both time and money by treating cases that would normally require transfer to another facility.

"I am a strong advocate of telemedicine services," said Terri Hill, Union Hospital Clinton's Administrator. "Through them, we are able to bring specialty care directly to our patients without time consuming and costly transport out of town and away from their family. Our partnerships with other healthcare organizations are fundamental to bringing this level of expertise to our patients."

Patients in rural areas must overcome numerous barriers to access specialty healthcare services. The distance to reach larger health centers often places restrictions on access. Utilizing a generous grant from HRSA's Office for The Advancement of Telehealth (OAT), Union Hospital's Richard G. Lugar Center for Rural Health, a national leader in the provision of telemedicine services, partnered with Union Hospital Clinton and UAP Pulmonology to set up the telepulmonology program.

Union Hospital Clinton has already built impressive relationships through its telecardiology and telemental health programs partnering with some of the best specialists in the region.