Virtual Emergency Department Follow Up

Follow-up virtual visits after an emergency department (ED) visit can be valuable for several reasons, including monitoring recovery, managing ongoing symptoms, and ensuring continuity of care. Here are some good examples of conditions that may benefit from an ED follow-up virtual visit:

• Minor Injuries: For follow-up care and assessment of healing progress for minor injuries such as sprains, strains, or small lacerations that were treated in the ED.
• Mild Illnesses: Follow-up visits for mild illnesses that required evaluation in the ED but did not necessitate hospital admission, such as mild respiratory infections or urinary tract infections.
• Medication Adjustments: To review medications prescribed during the ED visit, address any side effects or concerns, and make adjustments as needed.
• Test Results: To discuss and review laboratory test results or imaging studies conducted during the ED visit and to develop a plan based on the findings.
• Wound Care: Guidance on wound care for injuries treated in the ED, including instructions for dressing changes, signs of infection to watch for, and when to seek further medical attention.
• Pain Management: Follow-up to assess pain levels and effectiveness of pain management strategies prescribed during the ED visit, and to adjust medications or therapies as necessary.
• Chronic Conditions: Follow-up for patients with chronic conditions such as asthma, diabetes, or hypertension who sought ED care for exacerbations or complications.
• Referrals and Care Coordination: To facilitate referrals to specialists or arrange for additional services (e.g., physical therapy, home health care) following the ED visit.
• Patient Education: Opportunity to provide further education on managing the patient's condition, recognizing warning signs, and accessing appropriate care if needed in the future.
• Psychosocial Support: Follow-up for patients who presented to the ED with mental health concerns or psychosocial issues, to ensure they have access to ongoing support and resources.