For individuals with disabilities, a trip to the doctor’s office or emergency room can sometimes lead to needless stress or even physical discomfort. What if there were an alternative?
By partnering with StationMD, Northeast Arc is presenting a solution for residents to receive medical care or advice from the comfort of their own homes. StationMD is a telehealth provider specializing in the unique healthcare needs of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). StationMD clinicians are board-certified professionals specially trained to provide exceptional IDD community care, around the clock.
“We are happy to be among the first organizations in Massachusetts to offer StationMD to our clients, and their families,” said Northeast Arc President and CEO Jo Ann Simons. “This service is designed to prevent unnecessary emergency room visits, which often result in long wait times. It will reduce stress on the people we serve and save money, as we won’t have to pay additional staff to accompany them to the hospital.”
“The first call would be to the primary care physician, but sometimes they’re just not available,” said Susan Duncan, Residential Nurse Case Manager. “Having StationMD as a resource allows one more option for us to make sure people we support receive the best available care.”
“This is a way for someone to receive care without leaving their home, or getting in and out of a bed or a wheelchair,” said Tim Brown, Chief Innovation and Strategy Officer. “It’s more comfortable, and it’s one more avenue to be seen quicker. Knowing that they understand some of the unique needs of our population is another bonus to this partnership.”
StationMD works with more than 45,000 individuals across 22 states, and providers are able to treat patients in their homes in 93% of cases—avoiding unnecessary emergency room and urgent care visits and hospitalizations.
Northeast Arc, which was able to partner with StationMD due to support from the Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts Foundation, is rolling out the program for residential clients first, and then for those in independent living. Participants will be able to access the service if they are traveling, as well.
“It’s another tool in the toolbox,” said Brown.