Frequently Asked Questions

You Ask — We Answer

How does it work?

The physician logs in to a cart/robot inside the hospital from a remote computer with the appropriate software and security. The physican may be able to drive the robot, or a staff member may have to push the cart to the patient's room, at which point the physicain can interview and examine the patient using highly specialized cameras and with the assistance of the bedside nurse.

What if the patient needs a basic procedure like a central line or intubation?

We ensure processes are in place for each facility such that if the patient needs an emergent procedure, protocols are in place to contact appropriate procedural staff to help in such sitiations. Common solutions include contracts with in-house ED physicians, anesthesiologists or home-call proceduralists. We can also supervise intubations at facilities that allow respiratory therapists to intubate.

What happens in code situations?

Depending on the hospital, the code team which will include either an ED doc, hospitalist, anesthesia iniatially respond. The tele-intensivist is also notified. When the tele-intensivist arrive, he/she can take over, or if  another physican has already responded and has the situation handled, we can help generating differential diagnoses for cause of arreset, reviewing labs, documentation and imaging, and placing orders. 

How quickly will the intensivist be available when called?

For emergencies, the physician are available by robot or phone, as requested by the consulting provider or staff member, in less than 5 minutes. For urgent calls, the physicians are available in less than an hour at most, and more typically, less than 15 minute

Do you meet qualifications for Leapfrog compliance?

Yes, we work with multiple hospitals who are now Leapfrog compliant because of our services.