The Central Queensland Hospital and Health Service (CQHHS) is set to revolutionize surgical procedures with the introduction of a new telesurgery platform. This innovative technology will enable medical professionals to virtually assist in surgeries at CQHHS hospitals in Rockhampton, Gladstone, and Emerald, addressing barriers in surgical access and expertise.
One of the key benefits of this new platform is the support it provides to clinicians. Christina McInally, telehealth coordinator and clinical nurse consultant at CQHHS, emphasized the importance of clinicians feeling supported and having access to colleagues for guidance and collaboration. Dr. Andrew Scott, a rural generalist and clinical director of Capricorn Coast Hospital, highlighted how this virtual support can make clinicians feel more valued and enhance patient care in the local community.
While implementing the telesurgery platform posed challenges, such as convincing surgeons to adapt to a hands-off approach, CQHHS is confident that the benefits far outweigh the obstacles. By reducing the need for medical professionals to travel long distances to provide support, the platform enables live virtual assistance, consultation, and specialist guidance, ultimately improving patient outcomes and reducing costs associated with transfers and wait times.
Moreover, the platform is expected to enhance procedural collaboration, support workforce retention, and accelerate the learning and training certification of surgical residents and trainees at CQHHS. With over 4,500 staff members across multiple facilities, this technology will streamline processes and improve the overall quality of care provided.
CQHHS has been at the forefront of telehealth and virtual care technologies for over five years, continuously seeking innovative solutions to enhance healthcare delivery. As part of its 2030 transformation strategy, the organization envisions seamless digital information access to improve service delivery and patient outcomes.
In conclusion, the introduction of the telesurgery platform at CQHHS represents a significant advancement in healthcare technology that will benefit both clinicians and patients. By embracing innovation and collaboration, CQHHS is paving the way for improved surgical care and enhanced patient experiences in Central Queensland.
