Frequently Asked Questions About St. Francis Telehealth Services

 What is Telehealth?

Telehealth is a home-based health monitoring system, offered by St. Francis Home Care Services, that monitors a patient’s vital signs daily, such as weight, blood pressure, blood sugar level or pulse oximetry (oxygen in the blood). The monitor can also remind patients to take their medications. 

Who would be eligible for telehealth?

Answer: They must be home health patients, referred by a physician, who are homebound and need skilled nursing care, physical therapy or speech/language therapy.

The ideal candidates for telehealth are those who are able to operate the monitor themselves or with the help of a family member.

Who would be appropriate for telehealth?

Patients with chronic health conditions, such as congestive heart failure, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or diabetes, that require frequent monitoring, or who may have frequent emergency room visits or hospitalizations would benefit the most from telehealth services.

How does telehealth work?

Answer: The telehealth equipment is set up in a patient’s home. The data is automatically transmitted to St. Francis Home Care Services’ office via a computer program, through a phone line, where a nurse will review the information and respond as needed to the patient, family member or physician, as appropriate. If the patient’s medical condition is changing, the nurse can provide immediate attention and follow-up with the patient rather than wait until the next scheduled visit.

How often is monitoring done?

Monitoring can be done on a daily basis and adjusted to meet the patient’s needs. If a patient exhibits any abnormal symptoms during the routine daily monitoring, the nurse will notify the physician to determine whether the patient’s care plan needs to be adjusted.

What is the goal of telehealth?

The goal of telehealth is to help people actively participate in their health as a means to a healthier lifestyle.

How much does telehealth cost?

For Medicare patients, St. Francis Home Care Services offers telehealth as an added service at no extra cost. Eligibility for telehealth services can be discussed with the St. Francis Home Care Services team.