Where the Future of Medicine Lives

TeleCardiology saves rural heart patients driving time

A phone line and computer system are saving rural heart patients time and energy. With TeleCardiology, patients can undergo some tests and exam procedures at Marshfield Clinic Park Falls Center under the guidance - and direct observation - of a cardiologist at Marshfield Clinic's Minocqua Center.

The Marshfield Clinic telecommunications system allows a cardiologist at Minocqua Center in Minocqua to see and hear a patient in another location. The physician uses a headset and computer monitor, while TeleHealth Nurse Clinician Christine Wolter, R.N., at the Park Falls Center guides a digital stethoscope to key points on the patient's back and chest. "The doctor is able to see what I'm doing while listening to the heart and lungs, then provides feedback," Wolter said.

Richard Reinhart, M.D. observes a patient via Marshfield Clinic's telecardiology technology

TeleCardiology is used to assess progress after cardiac surgery, the effectiveness of medications and to follow-up on reports such as abnormal heart rhythm, persistent cough or chest pain, said Anna Christian, FNP-C, TeleCardiology nurse practitioner at Minocqua Center. It also can be used for initial diagnostic purposes, such as electrocardiograms and stress tests. Some patients are concerned about driving long distances, especially in winter, or are unable to drive, she said, and families must arrange transportation. "Patients can be significantly examined without traveling from their local clinic. If they can go six miles instead of 106 miles, it's a real time-saver," she said.

"It's definitely an advantage for elderly patients who live a long distance away, are very ill or recently had heart surgery," said Cardiologist Thomas Roy, M.D., of Marshfield Clinic Minocqua Center. Thanks to Marshfield Clinic's advanced electronic medical record, physicians throughout the Clinic system have instant access to patients' medical records, including tests and lab work, he noted.

"TeleCardiology keeps the patient in the community and keeps the primary care physician involved," Wolter said. After patients see a TeleHealth specialist, they're generally more apt to follow the recommended care plan and less likely to cancel monthly rechecks when visits are as convenient as going to their local Marshfield Clinic center.

Richard Reinhart, M.D., formerly a cardiologist at Marshfield Clinic Minocqua Center, was instrumental in creating the tool in northern Wisconsin, Christian added. "This service will play a huge part in the future of rural medicine. "In an area with a large elderly population, this is a Godsend."