Eight telehealth considerations

July 29, 2019

Curtis Lowery, MD

Although there are numerous benefits to telehealth, there are also many things to consider when beginning or expanding a telehealth program or clinic, including for obstetrics and/or gynecology.

Healthcare in America is becoming too expensive for companies, individuals, and taxpayers. Technology offers the potential to offer increased access to care at a better value. In utilizing telehealth, the overall healthcare system benefits from lower costs, less travel, improved health outcomes, and reduced emergency room utilization.1 Although there are numerous benefits to telehealth, there are also many things to consider when beginning or expanding a telehealth program or clinic, including for obstetrics and/or gynecology.2For more information on telehealth in obstetrics and gynecology:Â Telehealth: A new frontier in ob/gyn

References:

1. Vo A, Brooks GB, Farr R, Raimer B. Benefits of Telemedicine in Remote Communities & Use of Mobile and Wireless Platforms in Healthcare.2. UAMS Center for Distance Health. Arkansas eLink: Starting Your Telemedicine Clinic.

Setting goals/timeline:

Identify goals for implementation, identify a method to measure progress, and set a timeline.

Knowing the law

Be sure to know the state-specific and federal laws regarding telemedicine reimbursement and other relevant issues, such as patient documentation requirements and related storage.

©adiruch na chiangmai-stock.adobe.com

Starting small

Find those who are willing to be telemedicine champions through their support, and start by focusing on a small project, such as a single pilot telemedicine program.

Developing a business plan

Determine the services that will be provided and rates of reimbursement for them.

©Johnstocker - stock.adobe.com

Determining the services specific to your needs

Work with providers to whom you are referring patients for specialty services and use telemedicine to keep your patients local.

Staying connected

Find resources with your state or region to help you stay up to date. Telehealth networks can supply useful tool and information

Considering security

Compliance with the Healthcare Insurance Portability and Accountability Act, network encryption, and other security precautions are important factors to consider when developing and expanding a telemedicine program.

Choosing your technology partner

Importantly, you must ensure that the technology being used is acceptable to a pay source as being reimbursable. They should otherwise also meet your needs and provide 24/7 support for optimum telemedicine program operability.