Telehealth program for seniors launched at UNC

DSC_6257Telehealth Intervention Programs for Seniors (TIPS), in partnership with the United Way and the Weinberg Foundation, aims to help seniors age successfully by encouraging each person to be proactive about their health. Four days out of the week, trained students from the University of Scranton visit UNC’s four older adult centers. The seniors’ vital signs – specifically their pulse, weight, oxygen blood level and blood pressure – are measured using computers and other Bluetooth enabled equipment. That data is then transmitted to licensed Registered Nurses at UNC who review it remotely. If the readings show cause for immediate concern, the nurse will contact the senior directly, their caregiver or primary care physician. Because of this personal, one-on-one connection, TIPS is “high-tech” and “high-touch.” Presently, 160 consumers are enrolled and many significant findings have already been caught and brought to the attention of a physician. If you or a loved one is interested in participating in TIPS, please contact Meredith McCracken at 570-346-0759.