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Waiting. It can be agonizing, especially when a loved one is undergoing a procedure or receiving care in a hospital. For those who are unable to be physically in the hospital, the wait feels even more stressful.
In an effort to provide comfort, Lehigh Valley Health Network (LVHN) implemented the aptly named smartphone application, EASE (electronic access to surgical events). From messages about surgery status to updates during overnight hospital stays, EASE allows physicians to communicate with patients’ loved ones about their care.
In December 2017, LVHN first introduced EASE to patients in the perioperative services unit of Lehigh Valley Hospital (LVH)–Cedar Crest and LVH–Muhlenberg. Due to the positive patient response, EASE is now available in units across the health network, including Coordinated Health locations.
Locations using EASE
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Coordinated Health Allentown–1503 N. Cedar Crest Blvd.
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Coordinated Health Bethlehem–2310 Highland Ave.
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Operating rooms (all sites)
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Cardiac catheterization labs (LVH–Cedar Crest, LVH–Muhlenberg and LVH–Pocono)
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Interventional radiology (LVH–Cedar Crest)
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Neonatal intensive care unit (LVH–Cedar Crest, LVH–Muhlenberg and LVH–Pocono)
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Pediatric intensive care unit (LVH–Cedar Crest)
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Critical care units (LVH–Cedar Crest for patients post operation)
How does EASE work?
Patients or their guardians have complete control over who will receive EASE messages. Using a secure smartphone application downloaded from either Apple’s App Store or Google Play, they can select who should receive updates about their care or hospital stay. Before sending updates, the care team scans a unique bar code in the patient’s app. This creates a secure connection.
When loved ones log in to the EASE app on their personal device, they will begin receiving updates. Using the same encryption technology that banks and credit card companies use, EASE sends notifications securely. Also, the app automatically deletes messages 60 seconds after they are received to ensure no one but the intended recipient sees the information.
Whether it’s a spouse in the hospital waiting room, a friend walking the dog or a grandmother in another state, all your loved ones can stay informed about your care no matter where they are. Check with your provider to see if your procedure or stay is eligible for EASE updates.
To view more detailed instructions for downloading and using EASE, visit LVHN.org/ease.