Cybernetic Care Blurring the Line Between Telehealth and In-Person Care
Author: Cait Shaw Illustrations by Bryan Beerman
Cybernetic Care: Blurring the Line Between Telehealth and In-Person Care by Cait Shaw Section 1
• Elimination of waiting rooms – period.
Cybernetics as Healthcare
• Point-of-Care taking place in homes
Efficient healthcare delivery respects the time, budgets, and risks taken by the patients and providers. Worldwide, healthcare is an everchanging, ever-debated topic with no single correct solution. Technology advances, and policy changes delay our path to efficient healthcare in the United States. The COVID-19 pandemic has led to devastating casualties, derailed multiple industries, and uncovered weaknesses in our economic structure. Amid the chaos, we have also unveiled broader capabilities of our technology and identified opportunities for improvement. Healthcare, in particular, has been pushed into the digital realm. Pre-pandemic, telehealth was a luxury in which few health systems were engaged; within days it became the preferred and most widely-use method for routine and outpatient care. This, too, revealed opportunities to use our digital tools in more efficient ways.
• Specimen collection in a drive-thru or in-home delivery and shipping system • Radiation-free imaging taking place in homes • Better access to healthcare in rural areas • Urgent care “where your feet are” – triage and in many cases, diagnosis, and treatment at your current location Cybernetics, defined in 1948 by Norbert Wiener as the science of communications and automatic control systems in both machines and living things (Conway 2005), refers to a continuous response and feedback loop in which a decision is made.
Telehealth as a response to the pandemic prompted us to our
Consequences for decisions occur,
next question: How can we use telehealth to more broadly impact
evaluation of the consequences ensues, and finally corrections are made
healthcare delivery during or even post-pandemic?
to inform the next decision. This loop is very similar to the Scientific
A “cybernetic care” model could dramatically improve the quality of healthcare. Cybernetics is the concept driving artificial intelligence; when
Method but refers to the ever-improving process naturally occurring within an organism’s biology or within a machine’s moving parts.
integrated with healthcare using the technology that Americans use daily,
This seemingly simple concept called cybernetics is the cornerstone
cybernetic care will not just be an addition to the medical practice but an
of electronics and artificial intelligence that we use today and
overhaul to the system entirely. This includes but is not limited to:
is therefore an ideal description for the telehealth of our future.
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Telehealth is a unique marriage of
With cybernetic care, the patient can stay in the comforts of their bed
communication that occurs within our
and avoid weather, transportation hurdles, waiting rooms filled with
technology (data mining and transfer),
other ill persons sharing recirculated air, exam rooms with sustained
within medical practice (books,
bright lighting and cold, hard surfaces, pulling out a credit card for
lectures, and case studies), and
the copay, transportation to the pharmacy (also filled with ill persons
between the technology and medical
awaiting prescriptions) before, finally, getting back home for some
practice. Decisions that impact health
overdue rest.
are made by either patient or provider, consequences follow, and analysis of those consequences using machines or human physicians informs the next decision. Wearables and other data-tracking devices can capture an overall look at an individual’s health and provide critical patient vitals to physicians
Current Healthcare Conditions | The Caregiver’s Experience From a caregiver’s perspective, the scenario is different, but no less challenging. When you arrive at work, you face another day of excessive handwashing and sanitizer use on your already dry hands
without using a caregiver’s time, facility, or risk of infection.
followed by disposable gloves (and the box already needs refilling
Can we develop a healthcare system that engages this cybernetic
it’s easier to eat quickly in the windowless locker room than in the
process incorporating both technology and medical expertise
spacious indoor/outdoor breakroom across the building.
to advance care quality, and to enhance patient and provider experience? Opportunities to integrate our current technology and medical processes abound, with the potential to rejuvenate healthcare delivery in the United States.
for the fifth time this week). Your workspace is likely harshly lit, and
If you’re an administrative professional, you serve as the first line of security between the public and your coworkers in the clinic or hospital. You wear personal protective equipment (PPE) all day, handle identification and insurance cards, answer phones, and
Section 2
touch patients’ phones and tablets to show how to use the health
Healthcare Then, Now, and Tomorrow
system app. You provide tissues, masks, specimen collection cups,
Current Healthcare Conditions | The Patient Experience We are all too familiar with this scenario: You have a fever now, but your primary care physician can’t see you for another week. The next step is to get in line at Urgent Care and wait in a room full of other sick or injured people while fighting through your own fever. You could be there for hours.
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pens, and maybe even a lollipop to the anxious child on the other side of your desk. Adding to your physical and emotional stress, you sit in the same waiting room as the ill patients for the majority of your day. If you’re an intake professional, you touch patients more directly. You wrap arms with blood pressure cuffs, weigh patients and place
thermometers in their mouths, and help them on and off tables or
The Cybernetic Care Experience
beds in the exam and procedure rooms. You ask them sensitive
Urgent Care Scene
health questions such as, “What’s your diet like? How often do you
Bria lives alone and cut her hand while cooking in the kitchen. It’s still
exercise? Do you drink alcohol or use drugs? Are you allergic to any
bleeding even though she has it wrapped and is applying pressure.
medications? When was the first date of your last period? Do you
She was able to call her doctor’s office or an Urgent Care by voice
have regular bowel movements? What ailments did your mother’s
command. She’s been on hold for six minutes and a nurse’s face
father have throughout his life?” Some patients are an open book;
appears on her cell phone screen.
others are shy and embarrassed to share such information. The muffled noise of voices coming from the next room doesn’t create a sense of privacy. You experience this routine for roughly 20-50 patients each day. If you’re a primary caregiver or doctor, you will be the one physically closest to your patient’s illness, injury, infected wound, or bodily fluid as you inspect and treat the area. Even though you practice good hygiene before and after each patient, you still touch many surfaces, use several disposable goods such as cotton swabs, otoscope covers, gowns, paper tissues and towels, gloves, sharps, topicals, adhesives, and more. You carefully document the details of the visit, either while with the patient or after you leave them to redress. The computer in this exam room is the slowest in the clinic, or the “j” key on the keyboard only works when you jab it hard. The swivel arm that the computer rests on doesn’t allow you to view the patient while you document, so you are constantly turning back and forth. You have roughly 12-15 patients to see today so you need to make
“Hi, I’m Carter and I’ll be your triage nurse today. Am I speaking with Bria?” “Yes.”
this visit as efficient as possible while maintaining a positive bedside manner.
“Hi Bria, please confirm your date of birth for me.”
All of these scenarios are a familiar part of the status quo, but there is
“November 9, 1997”
a better way.
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“The voice transmission says you are reporting a cut on your right
to your home so you can come in for stitches. Are you still at 1234
hand – is that right? Are you able to move your hand toward the
Apple Street? Do you authorize the driver to enter your home and
phone to show me?”
assist you, or will you be able to walk to the door yourself?”
Bria does her best. She isn’t going to pass out, but she also isn’t
Bria: “I’m feeling woozy – they should probably help me.”
okay watching her own blood flow.
Carter: “No problem Bria, will you confirm authorization that our
“Just take a seat, we are going to get through this just fine!” Carter
driver can digitally unlock and relock your door upon arrival and
says.
departure? Also, can you confirm that the door we are using
Carter looks at the wound and the flashlight on her phone comes on. Carter adjusts the flashlight’s intensity and color and takes photos of
enters into the den and is on the left side of the home – near your driveway?”
the cut using Bria’s device.
Bria gives consent.
A typical dialogue to diagnose ensues: “How long has it been
Carter: “Ok, it looks like Kristy is just six minutes away and is
bleeding? Can you wiggle all your fingers? Do you feel any
available to come get you. She will be there soon and meet you in
numbness anywhere? I see that you are allergic to (enter medicine
your home. It will take 19 minutes to get to the doctor’s office when
name here), is that correct?”
you leave. Either Meg or Nick will take an in-person look when you
Bria’s smart watch vibrates and lights up with a loading screen. “I just got some info from your watch and it looks like your blood pressure is 125/74 – that’s good Bria. You are showing signs of stress though-, are you ok?” “Yes, I’m just a queasy about blood!” *breathy chuckles* Urgent Care Scenario 1 After five or so minutes of evaluation: Carter: “I think we need to get you some stitches and a blood coagulate. I expected clotting by now. I’m sending a medical Uber
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arrive.” Urgent Care Scenario 2 After five or so minutes of evaluation: Carter: “I think we need to get you some stitches and a blood coagulate. I expected clotting by now. I’m sending a medical Uber to your home so you can receive stitches at home. Are you still at 1234 Apple Street? Do you authorize the medic to enter your home and assist you, or will you be able to walk to the door to let them in?” Bria: “They can come in.” Carter: “Okay Bria, will you confirm authorization that our medic can
digitally unlock and relock your door upon arrival and departure? Also, can you confirm that the door we are using enters into the den and is on the left side of the home – near your driveway?”
Bria: “It can come in.” Carter: “Okay Bria, will you confirm authorization that our drone can digitally unlock and relock your door upon arrival and departure? Also, can you confirm that the door we are using enters into the den and is on the left side of the home – near your driveway?” Bria gives consent. Carter: “Ok, I’ve just launched Drone CR-8 “Charlie” to stitch your wound. It will be there in about 25 minutes and meet you in your home. One of our patient wellbeing advisers will stay on the phone with you until Charlie gets there. Dr. Talbot is on call and will talk to you through the drone while supervising your stitches.” Section 3
The Resources Exist The technology and strategic concepts to make healthcare more Bria gives consent. Carter: “Ok, it looks like Kristy is just nine minutes away and is available 20 minutes from now to stitch your wound. She will be
efficient for the end users have been around for decades. In short, what can the American healthcare system learn from Instagram, Chick-fil-a, Fitbit, and Amazon?
there soon and meet you in your home. Would you like to stay on the
Technology – Hardware, Software, & Connectivity
phone until Kristy gets there?”
96% of Americans own and use a cell phone – 81% of Americans
Urgent Care Scenario 3 After five or so minutes of evaluation: I’d like to send our DigiDoc Drone out to stitch you up. Are you still at 1234 Apple Street? Do you authorize the drone to enter your home and assist you or will you be able to walk to the door to let it in?”
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have a smart phone. (Pew Research 2019) Hardware Cell Phones (not “Smart” Phones) and Cybernetic Care: A simple phone call from an empathetic voice with health and diagnostic questions is a form of effective healthcare. Follow-up appointments or health management visits are often conversational
in nature, and don’t require a patient to navigate the stress of an in-
• Internet Connection via Wifi or Data plan
person visit.
• Flashlight • Pedometer
Smart Phones and Cybernetic Care:
• Data link(s) to Smart Home device (Alexa, Google Home, etc)
Smart Phones have opened the door for countless opportunities to
• Data link(s) to wearables
complete a task without requiring computer access. Healthy persons
» smart watch
with smart phones may never need to enter a healthcare facility for
» Necklace, anklet, etc
routine care. How’s that possible? Smart phones already include the
» glucose meter
following technology:
» heart monitor implants
• Image and Video recording
» Prosthetics
• Personal Data retainage (ideally with Password Protections)
» Augmented reality (AR) glasses
» Identity » Payment Methods » Insurance info • Audio recording
Smart phone technology has not yet reached its potential in terms of personal healthcare. To be fair, technology evolves at such a rate that all industries, including healthcare, may never be using its full potential at any given moment. However, healthcare efficiency in the United States could be greatly improved by better harnessing existing smart phone capabilities. Hardware and Connectivity in the Home: • ~29% of homeowners younger than 50 own a smart home device • ~19% of homeowner age 50 and older own a smart home device (Auxier 2019) Smart locks, readily available through retailers, give homeowners the ability to control door locks, cameras, or alarm settings remotely. Patients who are injured and alone can easily receive healthcare if they are in arm’s reach of their phones or within shouting distance of a smart home device. Integrating these systems to call for help
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and allow permissions for a caregiver to enter the home (without
patient’s surroundings and the ability of the patient to adequately
the patient having to crawl to the door or have the door broken
take legible images and/or videos. With patient consent, telehealth
into) is entirely possible. For extra security, access can be provided
software should allow the caregiver to remotely control the features
to a caregiver with an automatically generated unique code that is
of the patient’s smart phone to access information as adequately and
scanned by the front door lock, so not just anyone is coming through
reliably as possible. This means giving the caregiver access to the
your door.
phone’s image filters – much like Instagram filters – to view a wound,
Software Number 1: User Interface User Interface will be a critical success factor. Does the software audibly or visually guide someone to access the care they require with ease? Too much text, unclear language, and distracting imagery reduce user-friendliness. Beyond the in-the-moment hardship experienced while using software that isn’t intuitive, patients may lose confidence in the quality of care they will receive based on the telehealth software. The same applies to in-person visits; patients perceive the quality of care they will receive based on the look of the healthcare facility from the parking lot to the examination room before having seen a doctor at all (Arneill 2002). In other words, don’t underestimate the need for a graphic design professional, and possibly a writing consultant, for developing telehealth software. Number 2: Control (or Lack of) Caregivers have control of the examination environment when seeing patients in a healthcare facility. Doctors often move the stool, use the swivel arm for the computer, adjust lighting, adjust patient on the exam table, or adjust the exam table itself. In telehealth, the provider is at the mercy of the quality of lighting provided in the
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rash, inner ear, or throat, etc. With photo filters, the same RGB or CMYK values as every other patient’s phone-acquired imaging can be collected. This allows for an apples-to-apples comparison of healthy and unhealthy examples of the same body part in a health system’s database to be compared with each other more reliably. If the provider could also turn on the device’s flashlight and adjust its intensity to their liking, it wouldn’t much matter if the patient is in a poorly lit environment. Finally, the caregiver could control the patient’s camera for video or image retainage to help diagnose the case. This control doesn’t have to end with using the hardware capabilities of the smart phone, but can also facilitate health data collection. Apps which track heart rate, blood pressure, glucose levels, food intake, and activity could all be linked to a healthcare provider’s telehealth account and be uploaded for their viewing (with consent), offering a more holistic picture of patient wellbeing. Number 3: Electronic Consent Smart phones are very personal items with access to highly sensitive health, personal, and financial information. As such, phones may be password or biometrically protected. Six-digit passcodes, thumb prints, eye, face, or even voice recognition are all forms of electronic consent that can be easily used to verify a patient’s identity, permit diagnoses and treatment, agree to medications, or upload health data.
If any of those methods fail, voice consent via a phone call can serve
answer. Answers provided by a health system’s database can be
as a secondary option.
more credible than a general web search. Some questions about the
Number 4: Security The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) aims to protect and secure personal health information. In a datadriven technology such as Cybernetic Care, sensitive information must be protected. Advances such as using artificial intelligence (AI) to auto-generate encrypted coding for each transaction of data were first widely provided to the public when purchasing goods via a cell phone’s virtual “wallet.” Regenerating a unique coding for each transaction of data greatly diminishes the ability for data to be stolen. This technology has found widespread use; in true cybernetic fashion, it is continually improved upon and eventually will evolve into something more complex and therefore more secure. A smart home device by Amazon earned HIPAA-compliance in 2019. “HIPAA-compliant” is a regulatory term used to describe healthcare organizations that embody a ”living culture that protects the privacy, security, and integrity of protected health information.” Amazon
mind and body are difficult for patients to ask; people don’t always know what language to use, may be uncomfortable asking a deeply personal question in a face-to-face conversation, or may fear being judged. A 2020 Clemson University study by student Courtney Linder researched the use of chat bots in healthcare databases. Her study suggests that chat bots could be an outlet for children and teens to find out important health information regarding sex, mental illness, or other topics they aren’t comfortable asking an adult (Linder 2020). Furthermore, healthcare systems could provide anonymous live chats with physicians to perhaps provide the same reliable information in a more personal way. Connectivity • Bandwidth: 73% percent of US homes have broadband connections (Mobile Face Sheet 2019) • 90% of Americans use the internet on a daily basis (Speedtest Global Index 2020).
achieved this milestone in its greater pursuit of becoming a cybernetic
A 2019 study by Harvard Medical School researchers examined
healthcare provider, and that process is still ongoing (Krasniansky
possible patterns in the use of telemedicine and the availability of
2019).
broadband connectivity. The study analyzed over 2,700 counties
In the spirit of using HIPAA-compliance and electronic consent, patients can provide necessary Electronic Medical Records (EMR), Insurance information, and payment directly to the provider. Other Software Opportunities: Chat Bots are robots with a database of healthcare information and the AI capabilities to dissect a question and respond with a relevant
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ranging from metropolitan to rural as the team tracked location and insurance coding for telemedicine “visits.” This study concluded that telemedicine was used more where broadband availability was highest, but only in rural communities (Wilcock, et al 2019). It is possible that this difference is explained by the fact that patients in rural communities must travel farther for in-person healthcare, and therefore have a greater incentive to use telemedicine.
In light of the current healthcare environment, however, telemedicine
now have strategic backgrounds in their homes or workspaces,
is highly encouraged, and the metropolitan areas have been altered
greenscreens for adding in digital backgrounds, or physical panels
significantly by the enforcement of social distancing. COVID-19 has
much like a photographer’s portrait studio to serve as backdrops.
reduced the use of public transit, and in-person visits pose new
These social media innovators have also developed an extensive
complexities due to infection risks. However, broadband availability is
database of the best microphones, cameras, and personal lighting
typically high in metropolitan areas. In rural communities broadband
devices for optimal audio and visual recording.
is perhaps less robust but still present, and the United States Federal Communications Commission’s (FCC) initiative of the “Connect America Fund” aims to increase broadband availability and strength in
The Telehealth Kit Telehealth owes the self-guided social media profession a great “thank
rural areas (Universal Service 2020).
you” for developing a kit of parts that physicians can use to present
The “elephant in the room” in the broadband discussion is this:
practitioners include:
different economic classes cannot all afford personal access to the latest and fastest internet technology. Healthcare systems could offer isolated hotspots to communities with less access to broadband connectivity. This is currently happening with public schools throughout the nation as students are using internet to attend classes from home in response to COVID-19. Public schools nationwide have provided hardware, software, and broadband connectivity (Willcox 2020). “Webside Manner” Charisma and good bedside manner are common (but not universal) skills of acclaimed healthcare providers. Unfortunately, these skills are not readily teachable, and do not necessarily translate well into the telehealth experience. In telehealth, bedside manner has mutated into “webside manner,” making charisma and personal connection harder to convey without in-person interaction. Luckily social media has provided a venue for innovation in improving onscreen personal appearance and relatability. YouTubers and Instagram professionals
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themselves to patients on-screen. Recommended accessories for
• A neutral, private clutter-free background with no passers-by » Solid wall color; light but not white » Soothing artwork (optional)
• Illumination of provider’s face
stages of development but is in the works (Isikdogan 2019). The best
» A “halo” light
practice until this software is widely available is to standardize where
» Natural daylight
the window of the patient’s face appears on the provider’s screen in
» Light surrounding computer screen that shines on provider’s
relation to the camera.
face • A working microphone » Separate plug-and-go microphone or built-in computer microphone, depending on sound quality • Acoustic Panel if in a shared space or exam room with hard
Behavioral Microexpression refers to subtle facial movements that occur in response to the brain’s current emotion. These quick, tiny movements are typically overlooked by conversation participants (Matsumoto 2011). Understanding a person’s emotional state during conversation is critical in medical care, particularly for psychological
finishes
evaluations. Conversing on video is a less intimate setting and can
» A foldable acoustic panel for hybrid exams rooms
cause the participants to miss emotional cues. Challenges include
» Soft surfaces to absorb sound (such as cloth seating, carpet
poor video quality, especially if the patient is using a cell phone or
flooring, and perhaps acoustic panels on the walls) • A working camera that auto-focuses on the speaker. » Built-in camera or plug-and-play, depending on quality • Two computer monitors, or curved monitor with large screen to maintain patient eye contact Equipment should be tested weekly or biweekly, depending on the frequency of use - and NOT while on calls with patients. A confident caregiver makes for a more secure patient. An unsure caregiver does not inspire patient confidence.
data connection; and inability to read full body language, as most video conversations only include the shoulders up. Electrodermal activity tracking software evaluates eye movement and other types of micromovements and categorizes them into certain emotions (Imotions 2020). This software could be used live during telehealth conversations to aid providers in their understanding of a patient’s mental health. Documentation Documenting a visit is paramount for healthcare providers to have an ongoing and holistic idea of a patient’s health. Some physicians prefer
Conveying and Observing Emotion
to document notes about a patient during the visit, and others like to
Other components of good webside manner include reading facial
wait until the visit is complete. In the former case, documenting during
expressions and making eye contact. True eye contact is elusive in
a telehealth visit is doable in a separate window on the computer,
video conversation, as the participants tend to look at the person on
as the patient’s EMR is likely open in a separate window on the
the screen and therefore not directly into the camera that is capturing
provider’s screen for reference anyway. In this scenario, it is important
their own face. Eye placement correctional software is in its early
to prioritize patient eye contact, not just documentation. As mentioned
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above, a standardization in the software or screen layout could allow
Responses received Tuesday, July 7, 2020 4:51 PM from
for the patient video to be nearest to the provider’s camera to maintain
Anonymous
best possible eye contact. The EMR or note-taking window shouldn’t be far away. Furthermore, the patient’s trust is gained simply by explaining the process: “This is good information that you are telling me, I’m going to be looking to my right so I can type this up while you speak.”
Question Have you used telephone calls, video conferencing, or both for therapy sessions? Answer I have used telephone calls and video for therapy. Question What technical difficulties have you experienced when trying to reach a patient? Was the problem on your (the provider’s) end or the patient’s? Answer First, the hospital system had not spent the money on a provider/ patient friendly software program for us to use. Insurance providers informed us what video conferencing software or apps they would allow HIPAA-wise. Problems include: internet down on provider side, internet down on patient side, I had to download different apps and systems on my phone to make it successful and if my internet was
Telepsychology Interview | Anonymous Therapist: The following questionnaire was conducted via email between Cait Shaw and Anonymous Therapist. Questions in black were written by Cait Shaw and were not peer reviewed prior to being sent. Responses in italics are from the Anonymous Therapist. Neither the questions nor the responses have been edited from the original conversation.
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not working right it would drop calls and would drop the video. My hospital system is getting Zoom Health set up for us but it won’t be ready for us until mid-July and they will have to train us. I doubt it will be hard. The other issue is that there were a few times that the Epic System was not working. We are dependent on technology. Patients also, despite the education on the front end of things still
answer while they are driving, in the car with family, stocking shelves
with a patient? How has this been affected by using
at work, at the cash register at work, etc. Not appropriate settings at
telemedicine?
all. Spotty reception
Answer
Question
I definitely use eye contact in teletherapy. In the videos meeting
If you have used video conferencing, do you feel you are
with someone you have to make a connection and eye contact is
consistently able to see the patients well enough to complete a
something I am mindful of. You have no idea what will be said in
successful session with them?
session. Although I did have a few patients who told me some pretty
Answer I think that video therapy has a place in this world. I think it is a
traumatic events and said that they would not have told me had they seen me in person or in video.
gamble. The risk is that you can’t pick up on nuances as easily. I had
Question
a patient who I evaluated who was cutting on their arms and they
Do you feel that you or your patients are more likely to be
denied self-harm. I couldn’t assess for accuracy because I could
distracted during a session during a telemedicine session than
only see head and shoulders. I found out 3 sessions later.
they are in person? If so, why do you think that is?
Question
Answer
Do you typically look for body language during your consultations
It is easy for them to get distracted from animals walking in the room
to help you assess a patient’s wellbeing? How has this been
or they think it is ok to be shirtless in the session. If they are set up in
affected by using telemedicine?
a high trafficked area that is a distraction. I set up expectations from
Answer You can only see what the video shows you so there is risk there.
minute 1 to help decrease the likelihood of distractions and have to redirect my patients from distractions.
Body language says a lot. It is imperative that you look at body
During COVID I have had a private place to practice therapy.
language in sessions. It is a part of the assessment. Some people
However, my 2 kids were at home and even with the sound machine
will do well with video therapy because they need help with a
you can hear the temper tantrums. Little kiddos are distracting.
stressful situation, and they are open and honest about how they are feeling and coping. That is not always the case.
Question
Question
(Anything that may be missing for you or for your patients’
Do you typically use eye contact as a strategy for communication
treatment experience).
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What shortcomings do you experience with telemedicine?
Answer
• Telepsychiatry — As defined by the American Psychiatric
With appropriate video software you can use a virtual whiteboard. I
Association, telepsychiatry is “a subset of telemedicine, can
like giving my patients homework and doing experiments in face to
involve providing a range of services including psychiatric
face sessions. Or go on mindfulness walks. You have to get savvy
evaluations, therapy (individual therapy, group therapy, family
and think outside the box. You have to upload all of the paperwork
therapy), patient education and medication management”
you may give a patient.
(Shore 2020). Especially for patients with severe anxiety or
Question Other than controlling the spread of infection, what benefits do you experience with telemedicine? (Anything that may be advantageous for you or for your patients’ treatment experience). Answer I suppose a benefit would be to help someone who is home bound until someone can enter into the home. The other issue is that not everyone has access to Wi-Fi and or high data plans. Studies in Indiana show that Medicaid kids are behind in virtual school for this very reason. No access to smart phones or Wi-Fi. It can benefit for those who are in need of something short term: smoking cessation, diabetes prevention, stressors at home, etc. I have found that it is also helpful for new moms that are battling with post-partum or people who need a bridge to seeing a long-term therapist. In-Home Care Types of Care Ready for Telehealth I. Visits that can be done using Telemedicine (Do Not Require inperson physical assessment) (Vanvuren 2019):
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physical limitations, being able to consult with a psychiatrist or psychologist using telemedicine technology can prove incredibly effective. • Teledermatology — Patients can utilize dermatology services remotely by sending a photo of a rash, mole, or other skin issue virtually, eliminating the need for an in-person visit. It is true that an in-person follow-up may be required if a biopsy is necessary but time and money can be saved by using telemedicine first. • Teleophthalmology — Through live video calling or “storeand-forward” technology (i.e. sending a picture to your ophthalmologist) patients can receive eye exams without leaving their home or office. Teleophthalmology is especially useful for diagnosing eye infections. • Teleoncology — Offering more convenient care to patients with cancer, teleoncology makes it easier to consult with specialists who may not be easily accessible from certain locations. Photo sharing and live video calling are used in this specialty. • Teleobstetrics — Pregnant patients can access prenatal care or urgent care for pregnancy-related health services, or get prenatal care using telemedicine. One example of this is recording the baby’s heartbeat in one place and having it reviewed by a physician in another. • Telerehabilitation — Patients who need physical therapy can receive video consultations instead of heading into an office
• Other applications: » Allergies
hurdles have been overcome, however, the door is open to use drones for all industries including healthcare.
» Arthritis » Asthma and respiratory and sinus infections » Bronchitis » Colds and flu » Diarrhea or constipation » Infections » Insect bites » Pharyngitis » Conjunctivitis (or pink eye) » Rashes » Skin rashes, infections, or inflammation » Sore throats » Sprained or strained bones » Bladder infections and UTIs » Sports injuries » Other physical injuries » Vomiting, heartburn, and nausea » Joint aches and pain » Headaches » Small wounds and cuts » Fever » Review medications, lab results, treatment follow-up Drone Healthcare The two largest markets for unmanned aerial vehicles – or “drones”
Medicated patients may need assistance for various reasons including but not limited to: • Some patients have difficulty remembering to take medication as prescribed. • Medications may be in the form of an injection or other non-oral method. • Some patients are susceptible to overdose and can only be given one dose of medication at a time.
- are the United States military and personal enjoyment. Few major
Time spent calling or physically attending to multiple patients for
shipping companies have done expansive studies and tests on using
medication management is prohibitively expensive. Therefore, patients
drones as delivery agents, but none are being used regularly as of
can often go improperly medicated for their condition and their health
2020 due to regulatory or feasibility concerns. Once the various
suffers.
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Allowing drones to provide, remind, or even administer medication to
alternative solution. Emergency and non-emergency transportation
patients on a regular route daily or weekly could be a viable solution
employers can insure a medical aide to touch a patient and help them
to this challenge. Furthermore, in emergent situations drones have
to the healthcare facility.
the capability to perform some procedures such as suturing an open wound (Da Vinci Surgery 2020). Outfitting a drone with an ultraviolet
Section 4
(UV) light for disinfectant purposes, a robotic surgeon, and audio/
Cybernetic Care and the Healthcare Facility
visual capabilities for physician guidance allows for a quick response
At home or in the clinic: how do we ensure that providers have the
team to an injured person’s location.
right environment and tools to conduct telehealth visits with a few
Transportation
basic finishes and accessories?
When patient needs require in-person care, transportation becomes a
Healthcare facility directors manage millions of square feet and often
critical issue. Lack of accessible transportation to a facility is a public
prefer to simplify their task with standardized mechanical, electrical,
health issue. Patients who do not have a vehicle, do not have access
and plumbing systems, standardized finishes, and standardized
to public transit, or are physically unable to access transportation
maintenance strategies. Since most healthcare systems have been
must rely on another person to transport them safely. Without a
around for decades and have acquired other systems or buildings
friend or family member to assist, patients would have to call for an
over time, these standardization goals are likely difficult or even
ambulance. According to the Healthcare Common Procedure Coding
impossible to uphold. It isn’t likely that telehealth will reduce how
System (HCPCS), an ambulance ride costs at least $215 minimum
much square footage any given healthcare system will use, but it may
per mile for any state in the US. The cost is increased if the transport
offer the opportunity for more efficient use of built space.
is considered “rural.” (2020 Ambulance Fee Schedule). Many cases requiring transportation don’t require an EMT team or ambulance
With telehealth, providers could work outside of the healthcare
assistance; non-emergent transport is available by some healthcare
facility as long as they are offering audio and visual security to the
systems or emergency transportation companies, but it isn’t widely
patient. In other words, you wouldn’t want your doctor looking at and
adopted (Lang 2019).
talking about your acne on their screen in the middle of a local coffee shop. However, a physician’s home may be an option, or any other
Calling an Uber or Lyft transportation service is certainly an option
location free from distraction, away from non-medical personnel, with
but isn’t ideal for a few reasons: Uber or Lyft drivers do not have
internet connection, and of course, with the proper “Telehealth Kit” as
the obligation to help someone into their car and have no medical
described previously. From various sources, anywhere from 19% to
training or first aid kit if needed. A non-emergent transport system
67% of outpatient medical care has shifted to telehealth in 2020 as
which includes a licensed driver with a medical aide certificate is an
a result of COVID-19. If all those care providers providing digital care
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also shifted away from the facility, the void in office spaces, group
Once findings from the AI are reviewed by the healthcare team, the
workspaces, waiting rooms, exam rooms, supply rooms and parking
AI can be told if it was wrong or right and correct itself for the next
lots would be quite large. This “exodus” would also impact the loads
assessment.
on mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems. Before abandoning up to 67% of our built facilities, we should dive deeper into what
Finally, space will still be needed for in-person patient consultation.
opportunities this could allow.
When telehealth or home visits do not provide adequate care,
Dedicated Spaces for Cybernetic Care
healthcare transport to a facility for further testing, treatment, or
Each workstation for telehealth should be a one-person recording
recovery guidance. In outpatient care, these patient rooms should be
studio complete with the telehealth kit described previously.
spacious enough for procedures and mobile imaging equipment. Each
Background, lighting, camera angles and resolution, height of the
room should be equipped with telemedicine equipment in the instance
provider’s face within the telehealth screen, computer workstation,
that the local provider would like to access a specialist from anywhere
and acoustic isolations are imperative to each workspace. These
in the world to review the patient’s case. Much like telehealth at home,
studios should also have quick access to collaboration space with
the specialist could have remote control of the room’s lighting and
their health team.
imaging settings but would likely be speaking to the patient with the
Collaboration space is likely a digital wall where patients cases can be discussed and symptoms compared to one another for the sake of finding commonalities and, ultimately, treatment solutions. This software would not only allow for providers to see patients’ cases from that clinic, but also see similar cases throughout a health system-wide or even nationwide database. A larger study group sampling leads to more reliable diagnoses. This database would contain consistent imaging using standardized photo filters and lighting from either patient’s devices during telehealth sessions or from in-facility equipment. With consistent image quality the providers can take advantage of AI to compare the photos and find abnormalities, similarities, and categories of this ailment. This is especially helpful when the sample size of patients with the same condition is well into the thousands, and AI is inherently cybernetic.
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patients will be transported either by themselves or via non-emergent
aid of the local provider.
No waiting rooms required; the patients that come to this facility have
Collaborative spaces that integrate telehealth visits are possible, but
already been triaged using telehealth and if the provider desires to
several environmental factors are key to its success:
check vitals once again, the patient room provides adequate tools and space for this. Lab testing would be completed hours in advance when the patient provided specimens either in a drive thru, homebased, or drone-initiated procedure. The lab in which testing occurred may or may not be attached to this facility.
1. Lighting: Rooms for telemedicine will benefit from bright but indirect lighting on the provider. Lighting should be in front of the provider’s face, not behind, and not glaring into the camera during a session. a. Glare from the screen onto a provider’s glasses is quite
Drone maintenance needs a place in healthcare under the Cybernetic
distracting; evolving video technology may help resolve this
Care model. Co-locating drone facilities with pharmacies or materials
issue over time.
management offices could be beneficial since drones will likely be administering medicines or performing minor procedures.
2. Background: Placing telehealth stations within the shared workspace, but in such a way that other team members are
Hybrid Spaces for Telehealth/Telemedicine & In-Person Care
not walking back and forth in the background, is best. A clean,
Cybernetic healthcare facilities can convert rooms from telehealth
non-distracting wall or panel with acoustic sensitivity behind the
to in-person care within minutes whether between visits or just for
telehealth providers is key to keeping a patient calm and assured
certain days of the week. This hybrid method of healthcare is already
that the provider is focused on them. The practice should avoid
active in many facilities because of COVID-19 adaptations. For the
clutter or paperwork on the walls behind the providers as well.
built environment to properly support this hybrid nature several guidelines must be met:
3. Interface: a. The provider will require multiple monitors – one for the video
Using an onstage / offstage care model allows clinical staff to work
of the patient and one for the EMR. (One large curved screen
collaboratively with each other whether the patient is physically in
is also an option). A current potential problem is lack of eye
the next room or on the computer screen. Communication among
contact between patient and provider. These two screens may
physicians and nurses, while benefitting from ease of access to the
be horizontally oriented with one above the other or vertically
exams/procedure rooms, has been linked to increased patient privacy
oriented side-by-side to avoid too much back and forth by
and increased staff happiness in recent decades (Freihoefer et al. 92).
the provider. Communicating with the patient is paramount
It’s no secret that private offices for clinicians are less prevalent today
to the patient’s assurance that the provider is focused on
than they were 20 years ago, but telehealth is best performed in a
them. For a provider to simply communicate why their eyes
private office setting.
on something other than the patient builds trust: “Bria, this is
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really good information you are giving to me. I’m going to look
Converting Existing Space
at your record and add notes while I listen.”
Cybernetic hospitals and MOBs can use their empty waiting rooms,
b. The provider needs a means for sharing images such as lab
diagnostic exam rooms, and triage rooms for screening and treatment
results, imaging, or the EMR. with the patient. A whiteboard
spaces. Diagnostics and treatment within a cybernetic facility is for
for sketching and teaching may also be helpful.
use of specialized equipment and / or more acute medical cases since
c. The provider will need access to the database of similar medical cases previously described for a confident diagnosis. 4. Acoustics: Acoustic panels in addition to the wall/ceiling
common illness and injury can be diagnosed and treated off-site. Small exam rooms (80-120 SF) could be converted to much-needed psychiatry and therapy spaces, whether in-person or via telehealth.
enclosure may be required for better sound quality. Echoing of the
Less on-site visits from patients or the public means less parking
provider’s voice within the room can be off-putting to the patient,
on-site too. Where waiting is still necessary, outdoors provides the
especially if they are already in distress. In addition to actual
safest circulation of air and reduces risk for spreading infection better
wall panels, (such as the black panels common in radio booths),
than inside air. Beyond waiting, the healthcare facility could tout itself
cloth surfaces, flooring, furniture, and other soft furnishings
to be healthier from a holistic sense; outdoor recreation and physical
are encouraged. Furthermore, providers can use dedicated
therapy where there was once a parking lot is a success story if there
headsets to listen to their patients. This may add another level of
ever was one.
psychological security to the patient on the other end of the call. 5. Telepsychiatry: It is ideal for the provider and the patient to see each other in full body view. Setup for the doctor or therapist could be an uncluttered wall with a cloth seat that faces a camera several feet away. This relaxed setup is ideal for easing patients into difficult conversations. This is one medical category where a private office is critical for telehealth visits. No one has control over how a patient presents themselves on their end of a video
Where geographical locations are not conducive to outdoor waiting, parking lots could simply be converted to the trending biophilic landscape that acute care patients are often lacking in their environment. Section 5
Reaching Farther
call, but it may behoove the medical practice to ask patients to
Beyond the United States
show themselves full body even for just a portion of the session
LS3P’s impact on healthcare delivery now reaches beyond the United
and document whether the patient complied with this request or
States, with Kristie Nicoloff’s involvement in the WHO initiative to
not. A patient unwilling to show their body for a conversation or
provide COVID-19 response clinics – both temporary and permanent
even portion of a session may be practicing self-harm that will go
– throughout the globe. These response clinics are separate but
undetected.
adjacent to main hospitals, and provide screening, testing, diagnoses,
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and transport holding for infected persons. The WHO is working with
• Survey Psychiatry Care providers about Telehealth to measure
different architects on a pro-bono basis, and LS3P serves as advisors
its effectiveness in therapy and mental health treatment and
to those architecture firms.
management.
While local outreach comes first, we encourage others to use their skills for global outreach as well. Using telemedicine with systems outside the United States is a simple progression of cybernetic care. If there is a need, specialists in Houston could provide diagnoses and medication to patients in Nepal. This kind of outreach is a financial obligation on the healthcare system since they would be providing
• Analyze what an in-person visit gives that cybernetics cannot: the psychosocial differences between in-person and telehealth conversations. • Use eye tracking and micro expression tracking software to evaluate how much time a provider is looking at patient versus at EMR or to evaluate patient emotions during conversation.
resources such as a built room with the equipment for telemedicine
Architectural design is needed now to support the efficient nature of
and an isolated hotspot for apt internet connectivity.
the cybernetic care model. Large quantities of unused square footage
What We Could Learn from Cybernetic Care Cybernetic care could inform where the needs are for physical diagnostic and treatment centers: Telehealth reveals where specialty care is used most and helps facilitate patient transfers (Stingley and Schultz 340). By using telehealth and telemedicine, data collected regarding how many patients are using specialists or are transported to a facility after initial diagnosis will inform the need for built treatment facilities in a given location. This is especially useful in rural areas where choosing locations for rural hospitals is often a financial gamble. Nineteen rural hospitals closed in the year 2019 for a total of 120 closures since 2010 (King 2020). Standalone studies suggested as a result of this literature review: • Evaluate which spaces in healthcare buildings are no longer needed, or no longer used for their original purpose, because of telehealth? What goes in their place? (Adaptive Reuse of built, vacant areas).
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is inefficient and will be quickly addressed to ease health system’s budget and maintenance costs. While architectural and procedural simulation will be key and beneficial to studying the facility solution, actual trial and error from health systems renovating and using their space as part of cybernetic care delivery will ultimately provide us with answers. Medical practice is, after all, PRACTICE.
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