Telemedicine delivers savings, better care in Nebraska
NEBRASKA, UNITED STATES — Chase County Community Hospital in Nebraska has embraced telemedicine to provide comprehensive emergency care, achieving significant cost savings while enhancing patient outcomes.
By leveraging telehealth services across multiple specialties, the hospital ensures round-the-clock coverage for 365 days a year at a fraction of the cost of traditional backup physician models.
The hospital pays for its full suite of emergency telehealth services at a rate comparable to hiring a single backup physician by phone for just 45 to 60 days. This cost-effective solution allows the rural hospital to maintain high-quality care without overextending its budget.
Improved access to specialists
Telemedicine has also bridged the gap in specialist availability for Chase County Community Hospital.
Rural hospitals often face challenges in recruiting and retaining specialists, but telehealth provides instant access to expertise in critical areas such as cardiology, neurology, and pediatrics.
This ensures that patients receive timely and accurate diagnoses without needing to travel long distances.
Enhanced patient outcomes
The integration of telemedicine has improved patient care by reducing wait times and enabling faster decision-making during emergencies.
With specialists available virtually at any time, medical staff can collaborate effectively to deliver life-saving treatments. This model not only enhances patient satisfaction but also reduces the strain on local healthcare providers.
A scalable model for rural hospitals
Chase County Community Hospital’s success with telemedicine highlights its potential as a scalable solution for other rural healthcare facilities facing similar challenges. By adopting telehealth services, hospitals can optimize resources, improve patient care, and address physician shortages—all while keeping costs under control.
As telemedicine continues to evolve, it is poised to play an even larger role in transforming rural healthcare delivery across the United States.
