MD Ally: Modernizing 911 with Telehealth for Better Care

Nov 27, 2024 at 12:00 PM
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MD Ally, founded by Shanel Fields, is at the forefront of modernizing the 911 emergency call system. By connecting patients with telehealth services, it aims to reduce unnecessary emergency room visits and enhance patient outcomes.

Transforming 911 with Patient-Centric Solutions

Modernizing the 911 System

MD Ally, a healthcare navigation platform, is making significant strides in revolutionizing the 911 emergency call system. Shanel Fields, the founder, started working on this startup in 2020 after graduating from Wharton. The platform integrates seamlessly with existing 911 infrastructure, partnering with local governments and healthcare payors. This approach addresses the overutilization of 911 for non-emergency situations, leading to improved patient outcomes and reduced healthcare costs.It's not just about technology; it's about creating a new care delivery model. MD Ally's innovative platform leverages technology to connect patients with appropriate resources, allocating emergency resources more efficiently. Fields was inspired by her father's work as an EMT volunteer and the overutilization of the 911 system in low-income communities. This realization sparked her passion for developing a solution.

A New Approach to 911 Healthcare Calls

MD Ally is changing the way healthcare access works by directly integrating with 911. Over the course of four years, the company has expanded its partnerships with local governments and provider payors, ensuring its services reach a broader population. By working closely with these stakeholders, MD Ally has seamlessly integrated its platform into existing 911 workflows, providing a streamlined experience for both patients and public safety officials.The company's patient-centric approach is at the core of its mission. It recognizes that patients often rely on 911 due to its simplicity and responsiveness. MD Ally's platform replicates this ease of use, reducing visits to the emergency department for non-emergency situations. By focusing on key performance indicators such as effective patient navigation and reduction in unnecessary emergency department visits, MD Ally is committed to providing personalized and coordinated care.

Overcoming the Status Quo in 911 Emergencies

The 911 system has remained largely unchanged since the 1960s, posing a challenge to MD Ally's mission. Fields recognized the need to educate public safety leaders and provider payors about a new model for healthcare navigation. By partnering with local governments like Lee County, Florida, and collaborating with provider payors, including insurance companies, MD Ally is closing care gaps and providing reimbursement for services.Public Safety Director Benjamin Abes emphasizes the importance of providing the right care in the right setting. MD Ally's ability to connect residents to physicians in real-time improves access to care and healthcare outcomes, while ensuring public safety crews are available for emergencies. By strategically collaborating with forward-thinking leaders in the public safety sector, MD Ally is introducing its innovative approach and reducing unnecessary emergency room visits.

Addressing Resistance to New Approaches

One of the challenges MD Ally faces is overcoming resistance to new approaches. Fields understands the importance of public safety agencies adopting a new mindset. By working with very forward-thinking leaders and finding those with a vision for a modernized 911 system, MD Ally is gaining traction. The company's presence at EMS industry conferences and strong reputation among public safety agencies have amplified its reach. Word of mouth has also been instrumental in its growth, with no turnover or churn in the public safety space. Referencable clients play a crucial role in spreading the word about MD Ally's success.In conclusion, MD Ally is making a significant impact on 911 emergency care through its innovative approach and patient-centric solutions. By partnering with various stakeholders and addressing the challenges of the status quo, MD Ally is improving healthcare access and outcomes for patients.