In an effort to improve the use of antimicrobial medications, California was the first state to enact antimicrobial stewardship legislation in 2006. Since then, the state has mandated enhanced antimicrobial stewardship programs (ASPs) in hospitals and other medical facilities. The goal of the California Antimicrobial Stewardship Program Initiative is to enhance patient outcomes, reduce resistance to antibiotics, and decrease unnecessary costs. It provides guidance and support for California ... [Read More]
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How Can Telemedicine Increase Access to Medical Care?
You may have already used it without even realizing it. Have you ever relayed questions about your health to your doctor or health care professional and then received an answer via email? Have you consulted with a nurse over the telephone? Have you ever shown an injury or physical ailment to your doctor via emailed photos or a webcam? Well, you may not have realized it, but you were using telemedicine. What Exactly Is Telemedicine? Health care practices continue to evolve with technological ... [Read More]
Telemedicine in Rural Areas: What is the Connection?
Access to Health Care Is Diminishing in Rural Areas Access to quality health care services is critical to good health. Yet, for the 19.3 percent of the population (about 60 million people) who live in rural areas, the access to health care is far less than that available to people living in urban areas. In America, rural areas have only 39.8 physicians per 100,000 people, compared to 53.3 physicians per 100,000 people in urban areas. And, when it comes to hospitals in rural areas, the news is ... [Read More]
Utilizing Telemedicine for Your Antimicrobial Stewardship
Evidence continues to show that inappropriate and indiscriminant use of antibiotics and other antimicrobial agents has led to the growing problem of antimicrobial resistance, drug-related adverse effects, and higher medical costs. For more than 80 years, the medical community has relied upon the liberal use of antibiotics to treat infectious diseases. Over time, those infectious organisms have adapted, making certain antibiotics less effective, due to the long-term, widespread use of ... [Read More]
Telemedicine Trends to Watch for in 2018
Telemedicine, implemented in the 1990’s, continues to change the way health services are delivered. This is not surprising when telemedicine has proven that it brings high quality and mobile solutions to rural areas where such care can be scarce. It overcomes the challenges of medical staff shortages, geographical distance between doctor and patient, and improves the patient’s access to timely care by the right provider. Telemedicine has already changed the health care landscape, and will ... [Read More]
