Ascension Wisconsin Implements Tele-ICUs, Reducing On-Site ICU Doctors at Smaller Hospitals
Ascension Wisconsin has transitioned to a telemedicine model for intensive care units (ICUs) at some of its smaller satellite hospitals, including Ascension SE Wisconsin Hospital-Elmbrook in Brookfield, Ascension SE Wisconsin Hospital in Franklin, and Columbia St. Mary’s Hospital-Ozaukee in Mequon. As of May 1, critical care physicians are no longer physically present in these ICUs but are available virtually to assist bedside nurses and hospitalists, who are not specialized in critical care. This shift is part of a broader trend in healthcare towards telemedicine, which Ascension claims will complement in-person care. The change comes as Ascension, a St. Louis-based national health system, continues to recover from significant operating losses and a 2024 cyberattack.