Project echo is a telementoring model that connects primary care clinicians with inter-disciplinary teams of specialists. This approach is designed to enhance care for patients suffering from complex health issues, particularly in rural and underserved communities.
The ECHO model, created in 2003 at the University of New Mexico, focuses on treating hepatitis C in prisons and populations that are underserved. Since since then the ECHO model has been replicated in a variety of clinical areas such as asthma, diabetes and chronic pain. The ECHO model is backed by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality and the GE Foundation, and the Leona M. and Harry B Helmsley Charitable Trust.
During ECHO sessions, participants present de-identified cases and participate in group discussions with the experts in the field via videoconferencing. In this “all-teach and learn” style, instructors share experiences and knowledge to help answer questions, provide feedback, and provide recommendations.
The ECHO model allows remote monitoring of patient outcomes remotely. Specialists from the University of New Mexico follow the treatment plans of each community provider to ensure that their patients receive top-quality treatment. If a patient fails to adhere to their prescribed therapy experts can suggest mid-course corrections. This can help avoid treatment failure and improves the likelihood of a successful outcome. Additionally, specialists can utilize the ECHO system to track their data and discover gaps in care. The information is http://www.projectechonevada.com/what-you-should-know-about-project-echo then passed back to local physicians so that they can better assist their patients.