Peoria Standard

OSF HealthCare has implemented a new virtual monitoring program in its labor and delivery units to increase patient safety for mothers and babies. The initiative adds remote, round-the-clock monitoring through the OSF OnCall team, supplementing the work of in-person staff.

According to Kate Johnson, manager of Digital Care-Women’s Services at OSF OnCall, “This program adds an extra layer of safety by providing 24/7 remote monitoring through our OSF OnCall team, who work hand-in-hand with bedside caregivers. It does not replace our in-person care teams but gives them additional expert eyes on every laboring patient.”

The system uses PeriWatch Vigilance software, which is enhanced with artificial intelligence. A centralized group of registered nurses, known as the OSF OnCall Acute OB team, monitors patients in real time. The software provides tiered alerts to indicate early warning signs of complications. If an alert occurs, these nurses coordinate with hospital staff for immediate follow-up.

This service does not require new equipment for patients or add any cost for families or insurance providers.

The program covers all OSF hospitals that have birthing units, including locations in Peoria, Evergreen Park, Rockford, Bloomington, Danville, Peru, Galesburg, Escanaba (Michigan), and Kewanee.

OSF HealthCare states it may be among the first health systems in Illinois to provide this level of AI-supported maternal and fetal monitoring.

“Every mom and baby deserves the highest standard of care. This new technology ensures that we are watching over them even more closely, supporting our Mission to serve with the greatest care and love,” Johnson said.