SCOTTSBLUFF, Neb., – Regional West Medical Center’s Emergency Department has expanded its stroke treatment capabilities with the introduction of an onsite telemedicine “robot” that links directly to neurologists affiliated with HealthONE’s Swedish Medical Center in Denver, Colo.

The telemedicine program known as the Collaborative Digital Online Consultant, or CO-DOC, provides 24/7/365 emergency stroke care to Scottsbluff and its surrounding communities. The technology is a mobile “robot,” or computer system with high-powered cameras that allows instant access to Denver-based physicians who can conduct secure, real-time, fully interactive, consultations of patients who show signs of a stroke or any other neurological condition.

The HealthONE/CO-DOC telemedicine program enhances care of stroke patients provided at Regional West by Emergency Department physicians and neurologist Yvonne Rollins, MD.

It is the only stroke telemedicine program of its kind in the region, meaning Regional West now offers the most advanced stroke care in the region, with the additional capability of helping assess patients with non-stroke conditions.

“Prompt evaluation is critical in determining the best course of stroke treatment,” said Alicia Kunz, MSN, RN, Emergency Department manager. “Immediate treatment may help minimize the long-term effects of stroke and improve recovery outcomes. A doctor must not only confirm the symptoms of stroke, but also identify the type of stroke, its location, and the extent of brain damage.”

HealthONE’s CO-DOC stroke telemedicine program ensures around the clock access to neurologists for every patient treated for stroke symptoms at Regional West Medical Center.

Following diagnosis of a stroke, patients have access to a full spectrum of stroke care services at Regional West, including use of “clot-busting” medications, vascular surgery, interventional radiology, neurosurgery, acute and outpatient rehabilitation, Home Care, and support groups.  

Regional West Health Services, Scottsbluff, Neb., is the parent company for Regional West Medical Center, Regional West Physicians Clinic and Regional West Garden County. These organizations, with over 1,900 employees, provide comprehensive and innovative health care services for the people and communities of western Nebraska and the neighboring states of Colorado, South Dakota and Wyoming. With over 110 active physicians, plus an additional 25 consulting specialists, the Regional West family of health care organizations offers care that spans more than 30 medical specialties.