Australian health review : a publication of the Australian Hospital Association
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A literature review was conducted to identify the reported benefits attributed to telehealth for people living and professionals working in rural and remote areas of Australia. ⋯ Rural Australians have reportedly benefited from telehealth. The reported improved access and quality of clinical care available to rural Australians through telemedicine and telehealth may contribute to decreasing the urban-rural health disparities. The reported professional development opportunities and support from specialist through the use of telehealth may contribute to improved rural medical workforces recruitment and retention.
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The Medical Assessment and Planning Unit (MAPU) model provides a multidisciplinary and 'front end loading' approach to acute medical care. The objective of this study was to evaluate the impact of a 10-bed MAPU in Royal Melbourne Hospital (RMH) on hospital length of stay. ⋯ The reductions in length of stay are likely to be of clinical significance at the emergency department (ED) level. The MAPU model also contributes to providing care appropriate care for older admitted patients.