Project Echo – Telementoring for Complex Health Conditions
Project echo is a model of telementoring that links primary-care doctors with multi-disciplinary teams. This approach is designed to enhance care for patients with complicated health conditions, particularly in communities with low access to healthcare.
The ECHO model, created in 2003 by the University of New Mexico, focuses on treating hepatitis C in prisons and communities that are not served. Since then the ECHO model has been replicated in many clinical areas, including asthma, diabetes and chronic pain. The ECHO model has been backed by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation as well as the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) and the GE Foundation and the Leona M. and Harry B clinical training of doctors echo Helmsley Charitable Trust.
In ECHO sessions participants present de-identified case studies, and participate in group discussions with experts on content via videoconferencing. In this “all-teach and learn” format, experts share their knowledge and experience to answer questions, provide feedback and make recommendations.
The ECHO model allows remote monitoring of patient outcomes remotely. Specialists at the University of New Mexico follow the treatment plans of each community provider to ensure that their patients are receiving high-quality care. They can make mid-course adjustments if the patient is not adhering to the prescribed treatment. This can reduce the risk of failure in treatment and increases the likelihood of getting a positive result. Specialists can also utilize the ECHO system to monitor data and identifying gaps in care. This information is then shared with local healthcare professionals so that they can better serve their patients.
