A new systematic review and meta-analysis has found that implementation of tele-ICU services was associated with an overall reduction in ICU mortality. Furthermore, in subgroup analysis, the pooled odds ratio for ICU mortality suggests a significant benefit in publications with high baseline observed to predicted (O/P) mortality ratios but not with low baseline O/P mortality ratios. This review and meta-analysis included 13 trials which looked at the effect of tele-ICU implementation on ICU mortality. The review team, consisting of researchers from Westchester Medical Center in Valhalla, NY, abstracted study characteristics, patient characteristics, severity of illness scores, and ICU mortality rates. Past studies have examined numerous components of tele-ICU care to decipher which elements increase patient and institutional benefit.

Read More