In the News | Petoskey News

McLaren Northern Michigan began implementing a virtual nurse platform in select inpatient units in 2018. The platform is based on Banyan Medical Systems technology and provides video interactions between hospital patients and nurses. Now the organization has expanded the technology to enhance care for patients in respiratory isolation, including COVID-19 patients. “Using Banyan’s audio and video technology, members of the care team can virtually round on patients, answer questions, and respond to patient needs without needing to enter the room,” said Jennifer Woods, chief nursing officer at McLaren Northern Michigan. “This was originally intended to offer additional support for the bedside nurse, but during the COVID pandemic it has added an extra layer of protection for our patients, medical staff and employees.”