Patients, physicians using smartphones to limit contact

MONTREAL – Patients at the Centre hospitalier de l’Université de Montréal (CHUM), a designated COVID-19 institution, can now communicate with CHUM physicians from their hospital beds using a smartphone.

This new initiative, instigated by La Fondation du CHUM, will enable patients to receive necessary care and treatment while limiting contact with health professionals, thus minimizing the risks of contagion. The initiative has been made possible by Vidéotron and Québecor, who have supplied 150 mobile phones with unlimited data plans.

“These devices will give many patients continued hope and the opportunity to stay in touch with their loved ones, and will also protect medical personnel,” said Julie Chaurette, the foundation’s president and CEO.

Dr. Fabrice Brunet (pictured), CHUM president and CEO, sees the new initiative as very comforting for patients and highly beneficial for medical staff. “With these phones, our patients can keep in contact with their relatives and loved ones during these difficult times. The devices are also valuable for medical personnel, letting them talk with patients about their general condition, the intervention plan and daily progress.

“In addition, mobile telephone communication between patients and caregivers minimizes the risk associated with travel by our staff. The CHUM is fortunate to be able to count on Québecor, Vidéotron and La Fondation du CHUM, and I thank them for their support,” said Dr. Brunet.

Patients with mental health issues will also be able to continue their treatment more efficiently thanks to a system for consulting their health professional remotely.

Note that communication devices are subject to the same rules regarding disinfection as all medical instruments in use at the CHUM.

About La Fondation du CHUM
The role of La Fondation du CHUM  is to provide the CHUM with a source of additional funding. In doing so, it helps establish the CHUM as an international reference point in treatment, teaching, research and health promotion. La Fondation du CHUM acts as a catalyst and a driving force in achieving the CHUM’s mission through a host of initiatives, fundraising activities and its major fundraising campaign. It also organizes benefit events whose reputation is now securely established, and funds itself through income derived from various complementary initiatives, among which are the Travel Health Clinic. For more information, visit www.fondationduchum.com.