In the heart of south central Minnesota stands a beacon of healthcare hope – SEMC. While nestled in a rural setting, this independent hospital and clinic facility is anything but a simple establishment. Not affiliated with a larger health system, they shoulder the immense responsibility of catering to the health needs of Sleepy Eye residents and its neighboring communities.
But how does a rural facility ensure its patients receive access to specialists synonymous with larger, urban hospitals? Enter rtNOW.
In 2016, a remarkable partnership was forged. rtNOW, a leading telerespiratory service provider, approached SEMC with an innovative solution. rtNOW offered to bridge the gap through technology.
Traditionally, large hospitals are able to hire respiratory therapists. Now, thanks to rtNOW, SEMC can boast a similar caliber of care. Physicians and staff can connect with a team of highly trained and state-licensed respiratory therapists, 24/7. Whether it’s a critical situation, like a patient having difficulty breathing and needing assistance with the settings on a mechanical ventilator, or a less urgent opportunity to teach a patient wanting to better understand their asthma, COPD, or other respiratory conditions; rtNOW is just a call away.
While SEMC does have an in-house respiratory therapist who provides care for patients once a month, the collaboration with rtNOW ensures that top-notch respiratory consultations are always available when needed.
Why is this telehealth service so crucial?
Patients dealing with heart and lung disorders require specialized care. Whether it’s undergoing spirometry breathing tests, providing education on chronic respiratory diseases, assisting the on-site medical team assess a patient in respiratory distress , or teaching patients how to use respiratory medications and devices effectively; a knowledgeable respiratory therapist is indispensable.
The synergy between Sleepy Eye Medical Center and rtNOW stands as a testament to what can be achieved with a little innovation, foresight, and collaboration. Rather than letting location be a limitation, Sleepy Eye has shown that with the right partners and technology, it’s possible to deliver exceptional care anywhere and everywhere.
In our eyes, Sleepy Eye Medical Center isn’t just a hospital. It’s an emblem of resilience, dedication, and, most importantly, a commitment to the community. Their partnership with rtNOW only reinforces their promise to always prioritize the well-being of their community.
