Audiology: Norton Sound Health Corporation
Picks Up the Clinical Pace
The Norton Sound Health Corporation in Nome is the largest user of audiology technology in the state. Using a video otoscope, providers at NSHC capture images and build a case based on hearing, balance and brain stem functioning taken from observation. The case then is sent over the GCI ConnectMD satellite circuits to an Ear, Nose and Throat specialist at the Alaska Native Medical Center where they review and send back recommendations. Providers at NSHC are then able to directly schedule patients for in-person consults at ANMC, if necessary.
Prior to using telehealth technology, audiologists at Norton Sound turned in paper case files to specialists. Specialists then had to physically see the patient before any follow-up could be scheduled. This process could take up to two years and dramatically inhibit speech and language development within that time.
"Lots of kids have recurrent ear infections that need immediate attention. Some patients have been in five times in the past six months. It used to take months or even years to schedule a specialist consult, now we can do it within 24 hours or even faster, depending on the severity of the case," said Daniel Kanudsen, M.S., CCC-A, director of audiology for NSHC.
About GCI ConnectMD
ConnectMD is owned and operated by GCI (Nasdaq: GNCMA), an Alaska-based telecommunications company that has been successfully providing solutions to customers for over 25 years. The unique combination of telecommunications expertise, a focus on healthcare, and proven experience delivering medical network services, regardless of location, distinguishes ConnectMD from other health IT solutions. Currently 140 facilities are securely exchanging medical data and have access to a suite of health IT tools and services on the ConnectMD medical network.
