The Future of Aged Care is Hybrid!

The future of aged care rests on intelligent decisions about when to use virtual versus in-person consultations under one model of care, writes Coviu for The Australian Health & Aged Care Resource Guide May 2023 Edition.

Across two back-to-back articles, Coviu unpacks many common questions for aged care providers and residential aged care facilities looking to seamlessly deliver virtual care for the future health of our elderly citizens, as well as for the sustainability of the Australian aged care sector.

Studies show hybrid care offers several benefits for elderly patients:

1. Improved access to healthcare: Virtual care eliminates the need for elderly patients to travel to healthcare facilities, especially for routine check-ups or follow-up appointments. This can be particularly beneficial for individuals with mobility limitations or those living in remote areas, enabling them to receive timely care without physical barriers.

2. Convenience and comfort: Elderly patients often prefer the convenience and comfort of receiving care from their own homes. Virtual care allows them to consult with healthcare providers through video calls or teleconferences, reducing the need for transportation, waiting times, and potential exposure to contagious diseases.

3. Monitoring and managing chronic conditions: Virtual care enables healthcare providers to remotely monitor and manage chronic conditions in elderly patients. Through remote monitoring tools and digital health platforms, providers can collect real-time health data, track vital signs, and provide timely interventions or adjustments in treatment plans.

4. Medication management: Virtual care can assist with medication management for elderly patients. Providers can use digital platforms or apps to send medication reminders, monitor adherence, and address any medication-related concerns or side effects.

5. Social connection and mental health support: Virtual care can help combat social isolation and loneliness in elderly patients. Video consultations and teleconferences provide opportunities for social interaction with healthcare providers, reducing feelings of isolation and promoting mental well-being.

6. Reduced hospitalisations and emergency visits: By offering virtual care options, healthcare providers can intervene early and address health issues before they escalate, potentially reducing the need for hospitalisations or emergency room visits. Regular virtual check-ins can help identify emerging health problems and provide appropriate interventions.

7. Caregiver involvement and support: Virtual care facilitates caregiver involvement in the healthcare of elderly patients. Caregivers can participate in virtual appointments, receive education and training remotely, and collaborate with healthcare providers to ensure coordinated and comprehensive care for their loved ones.

As the articles point out, It's important to note that while virtual care offers numerous benefits, it may not be suitable for all healthcare situations. In-person care is still necessary for certain conditions or emergencies that require physical examinations or procedures. A combination of virtual and in-person care can provide a holistic approach to healthcare for elderly patients.

“With the rights software and support, the future of aged care in virtual care is now”, Coviu writes.

Coviu understands aged care providers may have several questions regarding the use of virtual care, including:

1. How can virtual care be integrated into existing care models and workflows?

2. What are the privacy and security considerations associated with virtual care?

3. How can virtual care help in managing chronic conditions and promoting preventive care for older adults?

4. What are the potential limitations or challenges of implementing virtual care in aged care settings?

5. How can virtual care support caregiver education and training?

6. What are the reimbursement and regulatory implications of using virtual care in aged care?

To make your life easier, Coviu has a number of educational resources, training tools, and comprehensive information on Coviu's virtual care platform for aged care providers here.