While outwardly expensive — installation can range between $2.5 million and $3.5 million — and, to some, a seemingly excessive measure, the off-site support operation has shown itself in studies to be cost-effective in a relatively short period of time. Recovery of patients was faster, mortality rates in ICUs were lower, patients' stays were shorter, thereby shaving hospital costs by 24.6 percent, and fewer intensivists were needed.