Project echo is a telementoring program that connects primary care clinicians with multidisciplinary teams of specialists. This approach is designed to improve care for patients suffering from complicated health conditions, particularly in rural and underserved communities.
The ECHO model was created at the University of New Mexico in 2003 and was primarily focused on treating hepatitis C patients in underserved populations and prisons. The ECHO model has since been replicated around the world in numerous clinical areas including diabetes, asthma, chronic pain, and rheumatology. The ECHO model has been aided 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 case studies that have been identified and take part in a group discussion with experts in the field via videoconferencing. In this «all teach and all learn» format, providers are able to share their expertise and experience with other experts to help them answer questions, provide feedback, and provide clinical recommendations.
The ECHO model allows remote monitoring of the patient’s outcomes remotely. Specialists from the University of New Mexico follow the treatment plans of each community provider to ensure that their patients receive the highest quality of care. If a patient fails to adhere to the prescribed treatment the doctors can suggest mid-course corrections. This can help avoid treatment failure and increases the chance of an outcome that is positive. Furthermore, specialists can use the ECHO system to track their data and find gaps in care. This information is later fed back to local doctors who can then better serve their patients.