Ambulance Victoria has joined the State Government’s Virtual Hospital Pilot, which will see paramedics working in the Royal Melbourne Hospital’s Digital Coordination Centre use real-time emergency department and ambulance data to make decisions about where to take patients.
Victorian Health Minister, Harriet Shing said the trial was about making it easier and faster for Victorians to get the care they need.
“By bringing paramedics into the Virtual Hospital system, patients can be taken to the right hospital for them, and our incredible paramedics can get back on the road more quickly,” said Minister Shing.
The Pilot is being led by Austin Health and the Royal Melbourne Hospital. More than 500 Victorians have received care through the pilot since it launched in December.
“By working more closely with our hospital partners through the Virtual Hospital pilot, we’re improving how we coordinate care right across the health system and ensuring patients are connected with the most appropriate care for their needs,” said Ambulance Victoria Chief Executive Officer, Jordan Emery.
“This new approach is strengthening communication between paramedics and health services, improving patient flow and getting our crews back on the road sooner to respond to the Victorian community.”
