Project echo is a model of telementoring that links primary-care practitioners with multi-disciplinary teams. This model is designed to improve care for patients with complex health conditions, especially in communities with low access to healthcare.

The ECHO model was developed at the University of New Mexico in 2003 with a focus on treating 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) and the GE Foundation and the Leona M. and Harry B Helmsley Charitable Trust.

In ECHO sessions participants present case studies that have been identified and engage in discussion with experts in the field via videoconferencing. In this “all teach, all learn” format, participants share their expertise and knowledge with others in order to help answer questions, give feedback, and provide clinical recommendations.

The ECHO model also allows remote monitoring of patient outcomes. Specialists from the University of New Mexico monitor each community provider’s plans for treatment to ensure that their patients receive top-quality care. The doctors may make adjustments at http://www.projectechonevada.com/best-healthcare-providers-in-2021 mid-course if patients are not adhering to the prescribed therapy. This helps avoid treatment failure and increases the likelihood of a positive outcome. Specialists can also use the ECHO system to monitor data and identifying any gaps in care. This information is transferred to local doctors so that they can better serve their patients.