Community Hospital-Fairfax (CH-F) has announced the launch of a state-of-the-art TeleStroke program, made possible through a collaboration with Nebraska Medicine TeleStroke Neurology Services. This new technology brings rapid, specialized stroke care directly to the CH-F Emergency Department, ensuring that patients in rural communities can receive expert neurological evaluation without leaving our community.

When a patient arrives with possible stroke symptoms, time is everything. The Emergency Department team immediately begins assessment and imaging, including a CT scan. Simultaneously, nursing staff enter critical patient information into the TeleDoc system. Once submitted, the team contacts the TeleStroke center at Nebraska Medicine to provide an initial report. Within moments, a stroke neurologist joins the patient’s room remotely through the Teledigm camera system.

The system is designed for seamless use. Staff do not need to operate or activate the camera. The neurologist can control the equipment remotely, allowing them to conduct a real-time neurological exam from miles away. Using high resolution camera technology, the neurologist evaluates the patient’s speech, movement, responses, and pupils, while also reviewing bedside monitors and communicating directly with the care team. Each room is equipped with a digital stethoscope, enabling the neurologist to listen to heart and lung sounds in real time.

One of the most significant advantages of the TeleStroke program is the neurologist’s immediate access to CT imaging. Nebraska Medicine specialists can review radiology images instantly, allowing for rapid interpretation and timely treatment recommendations during these critical moments.

Following the assessment, the neurologist collaborates with the Emergency Department provider to determine the best course of action. This may include administering TNKase, a clotbusting medication used to treat ischemic strokes. If a hemorrhagic stroke is identified, the neurologist provides immediate guidance for stabilization and next steps. When a higher level of care is required, the neurologist assists with coordinating transfer to Nebraska Medicine or another appropriate facility. In many cases, the same neurologist who evaluates the patient via camera at CH-F will continue caring for them after transfer, providing valuable continuity for patients and families.

To support consistent, evidence-based care, the TeleStroke team has developed a standardized stroke algorithm in partnership with Nebraska Medicine. CH-F will closely monitor “Door In, Door Out” times, aiming for transfers within 90 minutes when advanced stroke care is needed. The hospital is also working closely with the Atchison-Holt Ambulance District to ensure efficient patient transfers.

This program represents months of collaboration, planning, and testing between Community Hospital-Fairfax, Nebraska Medicine, TeleDoc, and Teledigm. Key contributors include Ashlee Driskell and Samantha Grist from CH-F; Dr. KellyAnn Patrice and Denise Gorski from Nebraska Medicine Neurology; and Erin Williams and Erin Leifer from TeleDoc. Additionally, Dr. Burke can access the system remotely to support Emergency Department providers during urgent situations.

For rural communities, access to specialized stroke care can be life-changing. The TeleStroke program enhances speed, coordination, and continuity of care – bringing expert neurological evaluation directly to patients when every second counts.