How the hybrid healthcare model is transforming patient access
Sponsored and provided by LifeBridge Health.
Telehealth Awareness Week, celebrated from September 15 to 21, highlights the value of telemedicine in healthcare today. Since its launch by the American Telemedicine Association (ATA) in 2021, this event has showcased how virtual care has transformed healthcare for millions, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, and how it continues to shape the future of healthcare delivery.
Why a hybrid approach matters
In today's fast-paced world, flexibility is key—especially when it comes to healthcare. The hybrid model, which combines both in-person visits and virtual care, offers patients the best of both worlds. It doesn't replace face-to-face appointments, but instead enhances the overall experience by giving patients more options for follow-ups, routine check-ins or consultations.
What's the big benefit? For patients, hybrid care means less time in waiting rooms and more time fitting healthcare into their busy lives. It provides access for patients that might struggle with transportation or require frequent check-ins. For healthcare providers, it allows for better monitoring of conditions remotely, helping catch potential problems early, reducing complications and even preventing unnecessary emergency visits.
"At LifeBridge Health, our goal is to leverage the right technology in a purposeful way to better support both our patients and our providers," says Staci Hodge, PA-C, assistant vice president of LifeBridge Health's Center for Virtual Care. "That will always be job number one."
LifeBridge Health's Center for Virtual Care
Initially established in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, LifeBridge Health's Center for Virtual Care (CVC) has grown into a robust clinical and administrative team committed to ensuring patients across the system receive the right care, in the right place, at the right time.
Here's a look at some of the virtual care services offered by the CVC:
Virtual Primary Care
With Virtual Primary Care, patients can access convenient care for common ailments, annual wellness checks and some chronic conditions. Virtual appointments simplify treatment, allowing patients to connect with a provider using a phone, tablet or computer.
Virtual Diabetes Management
Managing diabetes can be challenging, but the Virtual Diabetes Management program is designed to make it easier. With real-time adjustments to treatment plans and tailored advice from a diabetes nurse practitioner, patients can keep their health on track without the hassle of frequent office visits.
Virtual medical weight loss
The Virtual Medical Weight Loss program is here to help patients achieve and maintain their ideal weight. After a comprehensive evaluation, patients receive a personalized plan that incorporates nutritional guidance, medication options and continuous virtual support to help them stay on track—all from the comfort of home.
eVisits
For non-urgent issues like colds or minor infections, eVisits offer a quick and convenient way to receive care. Patients can describe symptoms, get a diagnosis and receive treatment plans without ever visiting an office.
ExpressCare Urgent Care Telemedicine
Got a non-life-threatening issue, like the flu or a minor injury? ExpressCare Urgent Care Telemedicine lets patients see a provider via video, saving a trip to the ER and getting them the help they need faster.
Remote patient monitoring
For patients with chronic conditions like hypertension, COPD or congestive heart failure, remote patient monitoring services provide continuous care. Patients track their vitals from home, sharing data with their healthcare team to catch potential issues early and prevent complications.
Post-discharge support
The Center for Virtual Care also ensures continuity of care after hospital discharge. From telehealth appointments to text reminders, their team helps guide patients through recovery and reduces the risk of readmission.
The future of healthcare
Telehealth is revolutionizing the way we access healthcare, making it more flexible and focused on patient needs. LifeBridge Health's Center for Virtual Care is specifically designed to meet a range of patient needs while ensuring consistent, high-quality care. Whether managing a chronic condition or seeking a routine consultation, patients can receive the care they need, when they need it.