On Monday, November 5th, 2007, University of Louisville Healthcare announced their use of Remote Presence robots to extend their Central and Western Kentucky initiative. To build this specialty services network, University of Louisville is starting with a fleet of 15 robots. This initiative will improve patient access to a wider range of specialists, technologies and services. The program will also create better diagnoses, allow patients to remain in their regions when appropriate and create direct access to treatments.

"The robot is an invaluable physician tool," said Dr. Kerri Remmel, director of University Hospital Stroke Center and interim chair of University of Louisville's department of neurology. "I have found that using the robot means that patients can be accessed more quickly, which expands treatment and intervention opportunities..."

Only 23 percent of doctors practice in rural Kentucky, even though 43 percent of the state's population lives there.

One hospital in the intiative, Owensboro Medical Health System (OMHS), has utilized the robot to help patients suffering from stroke symptoms. "Patients accepted it very quickly," said Dr. Robert Knight, president of the emergency physicians group at OMHS. "It is a great benefit for us."

For more information on the University of Louisville Healthcare initiative, click here.