Using virtual teams to improve the care of chronically ill patients

• Published in: Journal of clinical outcomes management Vol. 11; no. 6; p. 346
• Main Authors: Rothschild, Steven K, Lapidos, Stan, Minnick, Ann, Fogg, Lou, Catrambone, Cathy
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Wayne Turner White Communications Inc 01-06-2004
• Subjects: Clinical outcomes; Communications networks; Disease management; Health care networks; Outpatient care facilities
• ISSN: 1079-6533; 1938-1336

Objective: To describe an interdisciplinary team approach to chronic disease management in the primary care outpatient setting. Methods: Virtual Integrated Practice (VIP) relies on communications technology to link clinicians from different disciplines at different locations. VIP teams work together to develop explicit patient care goals in a specific clinical problem area. Four strategies are used: planned communications, process standardization, group activities, and patient self-management. The conditions currently being targeted in VIP are type 2 diabetes, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and urinary incontinence. To assess use of VIP strategies and patient satisfaction, a pilot study was conducted in 8 practices (4 intervention, 4 control). Results: Use of strategies varied at the 4 intervention sites. All 4 practices used process standardization. Only 1 used group activities. Patients have provided positive feedback and patient satisfaction has not declined. Conclusion: The VIP strategy can be successfully introduced into primary care practices. [PUBLICATION ABSTRACT]