Conversion and optimization of telehealth in obstetric care during the COVID-19 pandemic

When New York City became the international epicenter of the COVID-19 pandemic, telehealth at Columbia University Irving Medical Center was expanded in the inpatient and outpatient settings. The goals of telehealth during the pandemic were to maintain patient access to care while reducing the risk for COVID-19 exposure for patients and staff. Recommendations are made on how telehealth can be implemented and utilized to accomplish these goals. In the outpatient setting, virtual prenatal care visits and consultations can replace most in-person visits. When visitor restrictions are in effect telehealth can be used to engage support persons in the delivery room. Telehealth innovations can be leveraged to greatly improve care for COVID-19 mothers and their infants during the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond.