NEW ROCHELLE, NY — Sound Shore Medical Center (SSMC) recently launched an innovative program, Rapid Response. In partnership with the Visiting Nurse Association of Hudson Valley (VNA), the Program –one of the first of its kind in the area – targets patients utilizing the Emergency Department Services (ED), who are stabilized and do not require admission to the Hospital. Rapid Response, which is available 24/7, focuses on individuals with chronic diseases or the elderly, who can benefit from support services when they return home after an ED visit. Its goal is to quickly deliver services to discharged patients so repeat emergency department visits are not necessary.
When an ER patient is deemed medically stabilized by an Emergency Department physician and hospitalization is not indicated, ED staff makes a referral to the VNA for home care services. A Visiting Nurse then visits the patient’s home the day of discharge, and if needed, within hours of discharge. During this visit, the Visiting Nurse assesses the patient’s ability to follow the discharge instructions, reinforces instruction on proper use of medications and teaches the patient to be alert to changes in their condition. Rapid Response in-home evaluation also includes a determination about placement of a TeleHealth Monitoring Unit. This state-of-the-art system allows close monitoring of vital signs – all in the comfort of one’s home – and provides reassurance for patients as well as their families. In addition, other support services, such as a home health aide or specific medical equipment, are addressed during this visit.
Sound Shore Medical Center and the Visiting Nurses Association of Hudson Valley are both members of Sound Shore Health System and are long-time partners in innovative healthcare solutions for those living in the Sound Shore region of Westchester and beyond. Rapid Response has the potential to help individuals at-risk for hospitalization, become more self reliant and avoid frequent ED visits and hospital admissions. For many, one-on-one training and support can be the answer to improved health.
For more information on this innovative Care Transition Program, please contact Rhonda Ruiz at 914.365.3715. For a prompt, personal referral to one of Sound Shore Medical Center’s internists or specialists, please call MDs-LINE (914.637.5463); and for additional information on our Care. For Life. services, visit www.soundshore.org today!