(Reston, VA, Monday, October 29, 2018) – In the wake of Hurricanes Florence and Michael, SOC Telemed (SOC) is reinforcing the importance of health systems having tried and tested preparedness and response procedures to ensure proper coverage at times of crises.

To assist its partners in such situations, SOC, the largest national provider of acute telemedicine technology for U.S. hospitals and health systems, has created RACER (Remote Acute Care Emergency Response) – an emergency response effort at the ready with acute care services when they’re needed most.

Healthcare systems impacted by Hurricane Florence’s destructive force and floods not only suffered damage but also faced lingering disruptions in essential services. A hospital in Jacksonville, N.C., was one such facility hit hard by the hurricane. Flooding was so severe that hospitalists were unable to get to the hospital, while the numbers of patients more than doubled the day immediately after impact.

SOC successfully implemented its telemedicine platform for the hospital within one day. This rapid deployment enabled the hospital to provide patients with expedited remote acute care during the response and immediate recovery phase – a time when a marked rise in injuries and illnesses from storms and floods, exacerbated chronic conditions, and acute mental health symptoms is commonly experienced.

SOC Telemed (SOC) is the largest national provider of telemedicine technology and solutions to hospitals, health systems, post-acute providers, physician networks, value-based care organizations, and health plans. Founded by physicians in 2004, SOC started as a clinical services telemedicine group passionate about patient care and has grown to become a national leading telemedicine provider.