TeleConsultation support to a patient diagnosed with COVID-19

Overview

International SOS provided TeleConsultation support to a patient diagnosed with COVID-19 while on a short trip to Africa.

Service: Assistance and TeleConsultation
Location: Americas

Problem

Through a TeleConsultation, it was determined that the patient's condition was improving and an evacuation was not necessary. Movement to an upgraded facility in-country was hindered due to COVID-19 restrictions and lack of local medical infrastructure. Through the cooperation of several Assistance Centres, it was medically determined that a movement would be difficult in terms of arranging a receiving care hospital due to the new strain of the COVID-19, and its effect on the medical infrastructure.

The patient’s condition was relatively stable, and while exploring air ambulance options that could also accommodate her daughter (who was her primary care provider), the patient continued to improve medically.

Solution

We were on hand to secure a TeleConsultation with a pulmonologist, with a qualified and vetted provider. While air evacuation always remained an option, the patient was evaluated via the TeleConsultation and reassured that her condition had improved, was breathing normally, and no longer needed IV / steroid treatment. With that information, it was then decided that an air ambulance movement was no longer needed.

Impact

The impact was positive as we were able to provide the patient with invaluable access to a specialist who was able assess her and determine that she was on the right track to recovery. We were also able to reassure her family that she no longer needed an urgent air ambulance evacuation.