Butler Health System has started a new program for total joint replacement surgery patients, becoming the first hospital in the Pittsburgh area to blend online technology with in-clinic support.

The health system, which includes Butler Memorial Hospital, implemented the TotalCare program designed by Wellbe.me of Madison, Wisc., to provide patients with online education, family involvement, checklists and reminders, according to a news release from the health system.

The program is integrated with other care such as pre-admissions testing, joint camps and physical therapy to streamline the overall process.

TotalCare is offered to all of Butler’s hip and knee replacement patients at no extra charge.

Karen Allen, vice president of patient services, said in the release, “With TotalCare, we can assure that each of our patients is given the optimal pre-op preparation before surgery and recovery support after discharge.”

The Wellbe.me TotalCare program is accessed via the Web.

Patients are enrolled when they are scheduled for surgery, and the four-month program covers the entire cycle of care.

“Guided patient engagement throughout the care cycle improves clinical outcomes, reduces risks of setbacks, and speeds up recovery,” said James Dias, CEO of Wellbe.me. in the release.