Since February 2024, 55% of screenings are conducted entirely digitally. This allows Diakonessenhuis to assess more patients with the same capacity, while reducing the need for hospital visits. 

The digitisation process uses the triage functionality of ChipSoft HiX. Based on a digital questionnaire, the system automatically calculates a preliminary ASA score—an internationally recognised measure of a patient’s physical status. This score determines the next step. Patients with a low score (ASA 1 or 2) can usually be assessed digitally by the anaesthetist. Those with a higher score (ASA 3 or 4) require a phone or in-person appointment due to more complex health conditions. 

Several other digital tools support the screening process. The BeterDichtbij app informs patients at the right moments and reminds them of actions they need to take, such as completing informed consent. For education, the hospital uses Indiveo, which explains what to expect around anaesthesia and admission through animations and videos. 

The results clearly show the approach is effective. More than half of patients no longer need a physical appointment, while the hospital can assess more patients with the same staffing levels. This leads to significant time savings for care providers and less burden for patients, who can complete much of their preparation from home. 

Crucially, care quality remains intact. A scientific publication released in November 2023 compared digital and physical screening. It found that patients screened digitally recover just as well as those who had an in-person intake. Preoperative anxiety levels were also similar. This confirms that digital screening is a fully valid alternative. Diakonessenhuis contributed to the publication.