Introduction
WellSpan Health is leading the way in healthcare innovation in central Pennsylvania, focusing on enhancing patient accessibility and affordability through advanced technologies.
AI-Enabled Virtual Nursing Platform
Recently, WellSpan launched the Artisight virtual patient monitoring and nursing platform. This initiative aims to:
- Improve patient safety
- Reduce the workload of nursing staff
- Allow nurses to concentrate more on bedside patient care
Key Features and Results
The platform, which was piloted in 2023 at the WellSpan Surgery and Rehabilitation Hospital in York, Pennsylvania, has shown remarkable outcomes:
- 76.1% reduction in sitter hours
- 31.9% decrease in unwitnessed patient falls
- 13.5% improvement in nursing category scores for patient experience
- 16.5% improvement in discharge category scores for patient experience
Team Member Feedback
Team members have reported positive experiences with the platform:
- 55% believe it enhances workplace flexibility
- 86% feel it improves patient safety and care quality
Expansion and Future Plans
Based on the pilot’s success, the platform is being rolled out across nearly all WellSpan hospitals, covering tasks such as:
- Discharge instructions
- Sitter duties
With over 700 cameras equipped with AI-driven sensors, the virtual nursing platform is now averaging more than 800 hours per month in clinical tasks.
Innovative Monitoring Techniques
The system averages nearly 50 virtual patient observations daily, utilizing technology to monitor patient movements and prevent injuries proactively.
Workforce Flexibility
Most virtual nursing operations are centralized, allowing some team members to work from home, which enhances flexibility and reduces administrative burdens for bedside nurses.
Looking Ahead
WellSpan is exploring additional applications of AI across various departments, aiming to automate routine tasks and improve overall efficiency. Future possibilities include:
- Automating documentation through voice activation
- Expanding AI tools for specialty consults and family care conferences
Conclusion
WellSpan Health is committed to leveraging AI to enhance patient care and streamline operations, ensuring that both patients and healthcare providers benefit from innovative solutions.
Patricia Donley is the senior vice president and chief nursing executive at WellSpan Health.