A cloud-oriented architecture for the remote assessment and follow-up of hospitalized patients

During the last months the dramatic COVID-19 outbreak has exposed the fragility of our healthcare system, as well as the need for a smart remote follow-up system for the patients, in order to less the burden on the healthcare service and reduce the average hospitalization time. In this paper we proposed a solution designed to grant maximum flexibility by means of the allocation of resources on a cloud service for the remote follow-up of patients. Such resources can be used as a remote support for the caregiver both when planning or enforcing a therapeutic path. A major explanation behind follow-up regards the location and treatment of potentially adverse reactions after treatments. Physical side effects of the different modalities of treatment might be various and crippling after chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Moreover remote follow up can be a life-changing solution also on the economical side, due to the implication of therapeutic attendances for patients as far as missed work and travel costs that must likewise be comprehended in the overall economical burden. In an investigation of patients with testicular disease, Campbell et al. Finally such a solution could effectively improve the patient's adherence to the therapeutic plan. The ability to remotely follow follow-up is therefore a monetarily alluring choice as far as investment funds, also given the improved efficiencies, reduced cost and number of missed working days for the patient. Patients with a patient-held record may also take advantage of a more conscious and motivated interest over their own wellbeing, illness and treatment, with a direct impact on patient's adherence to the therapeutic plan.