The rise of virtual urgent care (VUC) is transforming healthcare access, particularly through expanding direct-to-consumer telehealth services, which, valued at $1.47 billion in 2023, are expected to grow. The Southern California Permanente Medical Group's Get Care Now (GCN) program, launched in October 2021, offers 24/7 virtual consultations for non-life-threatening conditions, recording over 1.3 million patient interactions to date. Integrated into SCPMG's value-based healthcare model, GCN enhances traditional urgent care by providing accessible, patient-centered care without additional fees, while promoting long-term health outcomes. Data from the program shows strong patient engagement and successful digital adoption.

Virtual Urgent Care Revolutionizes Healthcare with 24/7 Access and Growth Nature

Reid Health's Chief Information Officer underscored the necessity of choosing the appropriate AI platform for clinical documentation to reduce administrative tasks that lead to clinician burnout. The organization identified documentation demands as a factor compromising clinician well-being and patient care. A systematic approach was adopted to recognize specific issues, such as after-hours work and interruptions during patient interactions. By understanding the capabilities of ambient AI, which aims to support clinicians rather than replace them, the organization sought to enhance patient engagement. Reid Health evaluated potential technologies based on usability, workflow integration, accuracy, and vendor support. A pilot program using the Abridge platform resulted in an 86% decrease in note-taking time and reduced after-hours documentation, with positive feedback from clinicians highlighting their improved satisfaction and relief.

Reid Health Leverages AI to Combat Clinician Burnout and Enhance Care Becker's Hospital Review

DaVita Inc. has reported a ransomware attack affecting its operations across its network of over 3,100 dialysis centers in the U.S. and 13 other countries. The company activated its response protocols and is working with cybersecurity experts to isolate impacted systems and assess the situation after becoming aware of the incident over the weekend. While DaVita continues to provide patient care and has contingency plans in place, it has not fully determined the extent of the disruption or its potential impact on patient services. Experts express concerns about the risks associated with the attack, particularly regarding the potential encryption of patient records and associated sensitive information.

DaVita Faces Ransomware Attack Disrupting Kidney Care Services Nationwide BankInfoSecurity

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has approved seven new health systems to implement the hospital-at-home model, allowing them to deliver acute hospital care in patients' residences and receive reimbursement for these services. The approved systems include notable institutions such as UW Medicine in Seattle, Community Health Network in Indianapolis, and several others across the U.S. This expansion reflects a trend towards innovative, patient-centered care aimed at improving outcomes and alleviating stress on traditional hospital settings.

CMS Expands Hospital-at-Home Model with Approval of Seven New Health Systems Beckers Hospital Review