Module 11: Social Issues as Learning Objectives

Posted: February 15th, 2023

Module 11: Social Issues as Learning Objectives
1. Evaluate ongoing growth and development of cultural competency. 2. Recognize social and global differences that have direct impact on health. 3. Research global comparisons and terms used to evaluate health in developed and developing countries. 4. Explore potential applications for culturally competent practice.
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Current Challenges in Telehealth

I. Introduction

Telehealth, also known as telemedicine, refers to the use of electronic information and telecommunications technologies to provide long-distance healthcare services, patient and professional health-related education, public health, and health administration (WHO, 2021). Telehealth has seen rapid growth and adoption in recent years, fueled by advancements in technology, changes in regulations, and increased patient and provider acceptance. However, telehealth also faces some key challenges that need to be addressed as it continues to evolve. In this lesson, we will examine three major challenges currently impacting telehealth: technological barriers, reimbursement issues, and cybersecurity/privacy concerns.

II. Technological Barriers

One major obstacle to the widespread adoption of telehealth is unequal access to broadband internet and lack of technological literacy among some populations (Koonin et al., 2020). Many rural and low-income urban communities lack high-speed internet access or devices needed to fully utilize telehealth services. Additionally, some older patients and those with lower levels of education may need extra support in using telehealth platforms and devices properly. These barriers can exacerbate existing healthcare disparities if robust digital inclusion strategies are not implemented alongside telehealth programs.

III. Reimbursement Issues

Inconsistent insurance coverage and reimbursement for telehealth services also poses a challenge (Mehrotra et al., 2021). While reimbursement policies have expanded during the COVID-19 pandemic, many payers still do not reimburse for certain telehealth modalities at the same levels as equivalent in-person care. Navigating the complex web of state and federal regulations around telehealth billing and coding can also be burdensome for providers. Moving forward, advocacy is needed to extend temporary COVID telehealth reimbursement policies and develop long-term parity for telehealth coverage.

IV. Cybersecurity and Privacy Risks

As telehealth platforms transmit sensitive patient data online, they can be vulnerable to cyberattacks and privacy breaches if not properly secured (Haque et al., 2021). Both patients and providers express concerns about unauthorized access to video consultations and health records. Telehealth technologies must incorporate data encryption, access controls, patient authentication measures, and other cybersecurity best practices. More provider education on telehealth privacy risks and mitigation strategies may help increase comfort levels.

V. Conclusion

While telehealth promises improved access and convenience, issues like technological barriers, insurance coverage, and cybersecurity need to be proactively addressed. Overcoming these challenges will require cross-sector collaboration between policymakers, technology companies, healthcare organizations, and patients. If implemented equitably and securely, telehealth can greatly benefit population health management.

References

Haque, S.N., Rahman, N.I.A., Antonakakis, E., Jurdak, R. and Soar, J., 2021. Cyber security concerns in telehealth systems. IEEE Access, 9, pp.104986-105005.

Koonin, L.M., Hoots, B., Tsang, C.A., Leroy, Z., Farris, K., Jolly, B.T., Antall, P., McCabe, B., Zelis, C.B.R., Tong, I. and Harris, A.M., 2020. Trends in the use of telehealth during the emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic—United States, January–March 2020. Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report, 69(43), p.1595.

Mehrotra, A., Chernew, M., Linetsky, D., Hatch, H. and Cutler, D., 2021. The Impact of COVID-19 on Outpatient Visits in 2020: Visits Remained Stable, Despite a Late Surge in Cases. Commonwealth Fund.

World Health Organization. 2021. Telehealth. [online] Available at: https://www.who.int/westernpacific/health-topics/telehealth [Accessed 26 February 2024].