This score has been proposed as a gross attempt to suggest hypoxia via voice/telephone, and has not been validated. Launched during COVID-19 crisis. COVID-19 Resource Center.
It obviously does not at all substitute for pulse oximetry or an in-person evaluation of a patient, but these are very challenging times and it is difficult to assess hypoxia without exposing healthcare workers to possible COVID, expending PPE, etc.
The score is based on only 93 patients being admitted for pulmonary reasons (pneumonia, COPD, CHF, etc).