FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT:
Mary Poole
Baptist Hospitals of Southeast Texas
Beaumont & Orange
(409) 212-6145 / Mobile (409) 291-3731

Baptist Hospital will have RP-6 mobile robot system

BEAUMONT - (July 1, 2009) - When a patient arrives at an emergency room with symptoms of a stroke, doctors must act fast. But the crucial decisions that can prevent death or severe disability are harder to make without a neurologist. Starting in July 2009, Baptist will have what is being touted as the next best thing: a robot on call. The project is one of several around the country in which stroke specialists from one hospital are using technology to share their expertise with other facilities. Experts say it is a trend that could greatly improve patients’ chances of recovery.

The RP-6 mobile robot system, made by InTouch Health, Inc. allows doctors to “virtually” consult with patients, family members and health care staff at a moment’s notice, even if miles away from the hospital. The patient sees, hears and interacts with the doctor through the nearly 5.5 foot tall robot, which displays a live video image of the physician’s face on the monitor/head. The physician, seated at a computer console can also see and hear the patient through a live video image projector on a monitor. The physician controls the robot which allows the robot to be driven to the patient’s bedside.

The RP-6 mobile robot system is among the newest, most promising treatments available for stroke patients. With the recent recognition of Baptist Beaumont Hospital’s Stroke Program with the Gold Seal of Approval from The Joint Commission for Disease-Specific Care, Baptist Beaumont Hospital continues their commitment to sacred work and quality health care.

For More Information, contact Mary Poole at (409) 212-6145 or (409) 291-3731