It was always lingering over the horizon, but telehealth became commonplace when the world needed to shift gears during the COVID-19 pandemic in early 2020. The technology facilitating it has been around for a long time, but now it’s here to stay. So what is the future of telehealthcare, and how can it impact your workplace?
Rapid Growth is Leveling Out
It’s not surprising to realize that there were quite a few growing pains as telehealth rolled out quickly at the beginning of the pandemic. Even though the technology was already available, it wasn’t widespread. That meant challenges in the rollout, including a lack of reciprocity for providers and licensing. Many of these have since been resolved, and the telehealth industry is becoming standardized.
Care Coordination Requires Improvement
One remaining challenge is a lack of coordination between telehealth providers and primary care practices. While some telehealth is processed through primary care providers, there isn’t always smooth communication. For example, if additional tests are necessary, the patient must make an appointment with their doctor to repeat their experience with yet another provider.
Chronic Condition Monitoring
However, one of the most significant benefits of telehealth is the ability to monitor chronic conditions better. It allows the care team to better review the patient’s condition between visits to ensure that treatment is working and make adjustments as necessary. Telehealth can be used in conjunction with apps and wearable smart devices to track data and provide up-to-the-minute care.
Hiring for Technology Literacy
Keeping in mind all of these challenges and rewards of telehealth, employers are looking for talent able to fit into the virtual medical care industry. Along with experience as a care provider, such as a nurse practitioner or physician assistant, employers are looking for individuals with a talent for technology and the ability to use and understand the newest virtual tools, including video conferencing and patient portals.
Are you hiring telehealth professionals? Contact Fortus Healthcare Resources to see what we can do.
