Project echo is a model of telementoring that connects primary-care physicians http://projectechonevada.com with multi-disciplinary teams. This method is designed to improve care for patients with complicated health conditions, particularly in communities that are rural and underserved.
The ECHO model was developed at the University of New Mexico in 2003 with a focus on treating the hepatitis C patients in underserved populations and prisons. Since since then, the ECHO model has been replicated across a variety of areas of clinical practice, including asthma chronic pain, and diabetes. The ECHO model has been backed by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation as well as the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ), the GE Foundation and the Leona M. and Harry B Helmsley Charitable Trust.
During ECHO sessions participants present de-identified case studies and engage in group discussions with experts in the field via videoconferencing technology. In this “all-teach, all-learn” style, instructors share information and experience to address questions, provide feedback and make recommendations.
The ECHO model allows remote monitoring of patient outcomes. Specialists at the University of New Mexico follow each community provider’s treatment plans to ensure that their patients receive top-quality treatment. The specialists can make mid-course adjustments if patients do not adhere to the prescribed treatment. This can help avoid treatment failure and improves the likelihood of a positive outcome. Moreover, specialists can use the ECHO system to monitor data and identify gaps in care. This information is then shared with local healthcare professionals so that they can better serve their patients.