Complex heart defects - home treatment

The first virtual clinic of its kind in Israel for remote monitoring of children with complex heart defects, was recently opened in Sheba. The program was developed from a collaboration between the Children's Heart Institute at Safra Hospital and the Innovation Center at Sheba (ARC). It was established after collecting and monitoring data from similar programs around the world, which resulted in a reduction of the mortality rate in the first months of life, to 5% or less, among children born with complex heart defects.

How the program works

Parents are equipped with a saturation and pulse monitor, a baby scale, and communication devices (either a tablet or a kosher phone if necessary), through which they simply and daily report several metrics of the baby during the initial months of care.

The daily report allows for systematic and continuous monitoring of relevant parameters and smooth communication between the family and the medical center. The clinic team monitors vital signs, weight, and the child's overall condition online. If needed, they start interventions remotely or arrange clinic or emergency room visits.

The program has real potential to significantly reduce infant mortality rates by maintaining continuity of care beyond clinic visits and providing support to parents and children between appointments. The virtual clinic also increases accessibility for vulnerable populations and meets the need for ongoing communication during the first months of treatment.