Introduction

As mpox cases continue to rise in 2024, the healthcare community faces significant challenges in managing this contagious and potentially severe disease. According to the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), as of August 2024, there have been over 3,000 confirmed cases of mpox across the UK, with a sharp increase in new infections reported in the last quarter alone . Ensuring patient safety, reducing the spread of the virus, and maintaining high-quality care are all critical concerns.

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Understanding mpox

Mpox, previously known as monkeypox, is a viral disease that presents with symptoms such as fever, rash, and swollen lymph nodes. The disease can be severe, especially in individuals with weakened immune systems. Managing mpox involves monitoring symptoms closely, ensuring adherence to treatment protocols, and preventing the spread of the virus.

Given the contagious nature of mpox, traditional healthcare settings can become hotspots for transmission. This underscores the importance of solutions that allow patients to receive care without needing to visit healthcare facilities unless absolutely necessary.

For more information on mpox, please refer to the NHS guidelines and the UK Government's monkeypox guidance.

The Role of Virtual Care in Managing mpox

Doccla has already established itself as a leader in providing virtual care pathways, including those specifically designed to manage infectious diseases like mpox. Our remote patient monitoring services are built to ensure that patients receive continuous care while significantly reducing the risk of spreading the virus.

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"In response to the increasing monkeypox cases in 2024, we have established a comprehensive clinical pathway aligned with national guidelines, designed to ensure that patients receive safe and effective monitoring from the comfort of their homes,"  Dr. Greg Edwards, Chief Medical Officer at Doccla.

How Doccla’s Remote Patient Monitoring Works

Doccla’s RPM system allows healthcare providers to monitor patients’ vital signs and symptoms in real time, all from the patient’s home. This continuous monitoring enables clinicians to stay informed about their patients' conditions and intervene swiftly if any signs of deterioration appear.

The system uses a combination of wearable devices and a cloud-based dashboard that aggregates patient data into easy-to-read formats. This ensures that healthcare providers have a clear and accurate picture of the patient’s health status, enabling timely medical decisions.

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Practical Example: How Doccla’s Virtual Care Manages mpox Patients

Doccla’s virtual care system has been proven effective in managing mpox patients remotely, ensuring continuous care while reducing the risk of further transmission. Here’s a practical example of how our system works:

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Key Benefits of Virtual Care for mpox Patients

Lowering Infection Risk:
One of the most significant benefits of using Doccla’s RPM for mpox management is the reduction in infection risk. By minimising the need for in-person visits, Doccla helps prevent the spread of the virus both to healthcare workers and other patients. This is crucial in controlling outbreaks and ensuring that healthcare facilities remain safe for all.

Patient Safety and Comfort:
Doccla’s RPM system allows mpox patients to stay in the safety and comfort of their homes while still receiving the high-quality care they need. This not only protects them from potential exposure to other infections in hospital settings but also alleviates the stress associated with hospital visits.

Early Intervention:
With real-time monitoring, healthcare providers can respond quickly to any changes in a patient’s condition. This early intervention is key to managing mpox symptoms effectively and preventing complications, which can be critical in severe cases.

Operational Efficiency:
Doccla’s virtual wards reduce the burden on healthcare facilities by decreasing hospital admissions and the need for in-person consultations. This allows healthcare providers to allocate resources more efficiently, focusing on patients who need the most intensive care.

Conclusion

At Doccla, we are committed to being more than just a service provider; we are a partner in your mission to provide exceptional patient care. Our experience in enabling virtual care pathways, including those for mpox, ensures that you have the tools and support needed to manage this illness effectively.

We understand the unique challenges posed by mpox and have tailored our RPM solutions to meet these needs. From reducing infection risks to ensuring continuous patient monitoring, Doccla is here to help you navigate these challenging times with confidence.

As the healthcare landscape continues to evolve, the importance of flexible, reliable, and safe patient care solutions cannot be overstated. Doccla’s remote patient monitoring system is not only proven to enhance patient outcomes but also crucial in controlling the spread of infectious diseases like mpox.

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For more information or to discuss how Doccla can assist your healthcare organisation, contact us today. Let’s work together to navigate these challenging times with care and confidence.