MUSC Introduces Framework to Measure Value of Virtual Nursing Programs

CHARLESTON, S.C., Oct. 8, 2026 /CourierPR/ -- The Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC) and Manatt Health have introduced a groundbreaking framework to measure the value of virtual nursing programs, addressing a critical gap for hospitals that have adopted such initiatives. VirtuAlly, one of the pioneering organizations in this field, has been a key partner in the development and implementation of this framework.

VirtuAlly's virtual nurses have been supporting MUSC's program across 57 units in South Carolina since the program's pilot in 2023. This tool is essential for making a compelling case for funding, improving existing programs, and expanding to more units.

The framework organizes its measurement around four key areas: care team experience, patient experience, population health, and cost. It includes sample key performance indicators (KPIs) for each area, guidance on setting up an evaluation, and a list of metrics that programs can use at any stage. This comprehensive approach ensures that virtual nursing programs can be rigorously evaluated and their value clearly demonstrated.

According to the report, MUSC's virtual nursing program has shown significant improvements in various metrics. Bedside nurses reported spending more time at the bedside, with 76% noting a reduction in time spent on admission and discharge documentation, and 68% reporting more time to round on patients. Additionally, 87% of bedside nurses reported a decrease in overall workload, with an average satisfaction score of 4.41 out of 5 for virtual nursing.

The program has also demonstrated strong retention benefits. Turnover on early-adopter units fell from 47% in fiscal year 2024 to 30% in fiscal year 2025, resulting in an estimated $2.4 million in savings. The framework has enabled MUSC to add substantial capacity, with 23,516 virtual nursing visits in 2024, equivalent to about 10.2 full-time nursing positions. Furthermore, 100% of virtual nurses reported satisfaction or very high satisfaction with the program.

The success of MUSC's virtual nursing program has been a driving force behind its expansion. The program started with five inpatient units and has grown to 57 units across four regions. VirtuAlly's nurses work closely with bedside teams, providing support in admissions, discharges, patient education, and documentation. MUSC identified admissions support, discharge teaching, and documentation compliance as the program's highest-impact uses.

VirtuAlly brings the same model to health systems nationwide, helping them choose KPIs from the framework, set baselines before go-live, and report results across all four areas. The company's 24/7 services include virtual nursing, telesitting, telemetry monitoring, and clinical intelligence, providing frontline teams with the clinical backup they need to care for patients and support bedside nurses.

The framework's introduction marks a significant step forward in the evaluation and implementation of virtual nursing programs. It provides a robust and standardized approach that can be adapted by health systems across the country, ensuring that the benefits of virtual nursing are recognized and utilized to their fullest potential.