Clara Maass Hospital Launches Virtual 'Emergency Department'

BELLEVILLE, NJ — Clara Maass Medical Center in Belleville has launched a new “telehealth” emergency care program, administrators recently announced.

The hospital rolled out its new program earlier this month. It allows patients to be seen virtually by a board-certified emergency care provider from the comfort of their homes, using a smartphone, tablet or computer.

Hopefully, it will reduce wait times at Clara Maass, administrators said, adding that patients will be given guidance if an in-person emergency department visit is needed.

According to hospital spokespeople:

“The program, which is being piloted for the entire RWJBarnabas Health system, was created based on the system’s assessment of community needs and offers easier access to the emergency department (ED). Telehealth ED patients are greeted, assessed and swiftly connected with a healthcare provider via a full telehealth video service which allows the provider to examine a patient or injury and make an informed recommendation. The same provider they originally connect with for enhanced continuity of care often sees patients that require a visit to the ED in-person.”

“The emergency department is the safety net for the community,” said John Fontanetta, chair of emergency medicine at Clara Maass.

“People don’t only get sick during weekdays from nine to five,” Fontanetta said. “We’re here 24 hours a day, seven days a week to provide services – and now we can offer those services in a way that patients care access from anywhere.”

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