Prehospital Telemedicine Feasibility/Acceptability Pilot

Launched by BOSTON MEDICAL CENTER · Jul 21, 2023

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial, called the Prehospital Telemedicine Feasibility/Acceptability Pilot, is exploring the use of video technology to allow expert doctors to assess and guide the care of children experiencing respiratory issues before they reach the hospital. The goal is to see if this remote consultation can help improve emergency medical services (EMS) in the community, just as it has been shown to help in hospitals. The researchers believe that using video communication will be acceptable to both the doctors and paramedics involved, and they want to test this in real ambulance situations with children who are stable enough to be transported.

To participate in the trial, children up to 18 years old being transported by Boston Children's Hospital for breathing problems may be eligible, as long as they are stable and not in immediate danger. Unfortunately, children with non-respiratory issues or those expected to have life-threatening events during transport will not be included. Parents or guardians should also be English-speaking to ensure clear communication. Participants will experience a new approach to emergency care, with the potential for better outcomes through expert guidance while they are on the way to the hospital.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Children in New England transported by the Boston Children Hospital for respiratory illness from any cause
• • Clinically stable for transportation \[e.g., need supplemental oxygen, medications, or are stable on mechanical ventilation\]
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Children with non-respiratory complaints
• • Children whose illness is anticipated by providers to be acutely life-threatening during transportation \[e.g., requiring emergency resuscitation procedures in the ambulance\]
• • Non-English speaking parents/guardians