Silverchain is revolutionising home care with smart glasses, becoming the first organisation in Australia to use them at scale in home care.
After a successful pilot, smart glasses are now integrated into Silverchain’s services, enhancing clinical support and improving access to expert advice in real time.
Smart glasses are a wearable device with a built in camera that delivers a live video stream via wireless connectivity. The devices provide hands-free, real-time specialist consultations.
Silverchain is using smart glasses to enhance efficiency, safety, and quality of care by enabling remote collaboration with clinicians and our care teams across the country.
Silverchain’s Chief Executive, Dale Fisher AM, said the success of the device roll out demonstrated the organisation’s long-standing commitment to pioneering improved care.
“The future of care is in the home, and Silverchain is at the forefront of care innovation. Smart glasses enhance the care experience for our clients while improving access to essential health and aged care services,” Ms Fisher said.
“By turning technological advancement into real progress on care equity, Silverchain is providing an even greater care experience for our clients, improving safety and the delivery of care in the home.”
Silverchain’s Director of Health Innovation, Kate Symons, said this is the first time smart glasses have been adopted at scale for home care in Australia.
“A nurse visiting a client at home for a routine check can now instantly consult with multiple clinicians in real time, reducing the need for additional appointments and improving patient outcomes,” Ms Symons said.
“The use of this technology also minimises the risk of unscheduled escalations, helping to reduce pressure on the public health system. In cases where a client’s health is deteriorating, our teams can liaise with colleagues instantly to assess the need for further clinical intervention.
“Smart glasses also enhance medication management and specialist wound reviews, allowing nurses in the home to consult with clinicians for immediate advice, review and supervision.”
Silverchain is using smart glasses across a range of services, including palliative care, hospital in the home, aged care, clinical support and supervision, medication management and specialist wound care.
Silverchain Occupational Therapist Alex Skinner, who uses the smart glasses, said the ability to consult with experts instantly was a game-changer for clinicians, particularly for clients in remote or regional areas.
“This technology vastly improves the efficiency and delivery of care in the home, especially for clients who aren’t near specialist providers,” Mr Skinner said.
“With hands-free access to care plans and real-time specialist input, clinicians can make informed decisions without delay, ensuring all clients – regardless of location – receive the best possible care.”
Silverchain’s adoption of smart glasses – made possible by the generosity of donors to Silverchain Foundation – is part of its ongoing commitment to ensuring all Australians can receive high-quality, technology-enabled care in their own homes.
