Name of the Procedure:

Online Assessment and Management Service

• Commonly referred to as Telehealth or Telemedicine Consultation.
• Technical term: Asynchronous Online Medical Evaluation (Nonphysician).

Summary

This procedure involves a qualified nonphysician healthcare professional assessing and managing a patient's health concerns through an online platform. It specifically pertains to established patients or their guardians and does not relate to a previously provided assessment and management service within the past 7 days.

Purpose

This service addresses a variety of medical conditions and is aimed at providing remote medical consultation and management. The goal is to offer convenient access to healthcare services without the need for an in-person visit.

Indications

• Mild to moderate symptoms that require medical advice or follow-up.
• Chronic condition management.
• Medication adjustment consultations.
• Non-emergent medical issues.

Preparation

• Ensure a stable internet connection and access to the relevant online platform or application.
• Gather recent medical records, current medications list, and any relevant lab or diagnostic results.
• Note down symptoms, questions, or concerns to discuss during the consultation.

Procedure Description

1. Initiate Service: The patient or guardian logs into the designated online platform.
2. Information Submission: The patient submits symptoms, medical history, and any pertinent information through the platform.
3. Evaluation: The nonphysician healthcare professional reviews the submitted information, potentially asking additional questions via the platform.
4. Management Plan: The professional provides a diagnosis, management plan, or treatment advice.
5. Follow-Up: If required, the professional might schedule a follow-up consultation or recommend an in-person visit for further evaluation.

Duration

Typically takes 15-30 minutes, depending on the complexity of the medical concern.

Setting

The service is performed online and can be accessed from the patient’s home or any location with internet connectivity.

Personnel

Qualified nonphysician healthcare professionals such as nurse practitioners (NPs), physician assistants (PAs), or licensed clinical social workers (LCSWs).

Risks and Complications

• Miscommunication or misunderstanding due to the absence of in-person interaction.
• Potential for incomplete assessment if the condition requires physical examination.

Benefits

• Convenience and accessibility, especially for those with mobility issues or in remote areas.
• Timely medical advice and management for non-urgent medical concerns.
• Reduction in the need for travel and exposure to other illnesses.

Recovery

No physical recovery is typically needed. Follow-up instructions, if any, are provided during the consultation. Patients might be advised to monitor symptoms and seek further in-person care if needed.

Alternatives

• In-person consultation with a healthcare provider.
  • Pros: Complete physical examination, face-to-face interaction.
  • Cons: Requires travel, longer waiting time.
• Telehealth with a physician, if a nonphysician provider is not suitable.
  • Pros: Access to physician-level expertise.
  • Cons: May be more expensive and harder to schedule on short notice.

Patient Experience

During the procedure, patients can expect a remote interaction where they provide detailed information about their health concerns. After the consultation, they will receive a management plan or advice for their condition. Comfort measures include a quiet private space for the consultation and having all necessary information readily available. Pain management is generally not applicable unless it's part of the discussed treatment plan.