The COVID-19 pandemic necessitated a rapid shift to telehealth, providing an unprecedented opportunity to explore its potential within allied health services. As restrictions ease, the challenge is to sustain telehealth use and integrate it into regular practice. The research article "Beyond forced telehealth adoption: A framework to sustain telehealth among allied health services" offers valuable insights and a comprehensive framework to achieve this goal.
Key Findings:
- Forced Adoption and Clinician Reluctance: The sudden transition to telehealth during the pandemic led to resistance among clinicians, many of whom reverted to in-person care as soon as possible. Training and support are essential to build confidence and competence in telehealth delivery.
- Value Proposition for Clinicians: Telehealth must offer clear benefits to both clinicians and consumers. Improved consumer-centred care, convenience, and access are significant motivators. However, telehealth should also enhance clinician efficiency and job satisfaction.
- Organizational Readiness: System-wide improvements are needed, including robust technological infrastructure, standardized protocols, and dedicated telehealth spaces. Hybrid models of care that integrate telehealth with in-person services can offer flexibility and improved outcomes.
- Consumer Support: Effective telehealth requires strong consumer support, including technology training and troubleshooting assistance. Clinicians should actively offer telehealth options to all suitable consumers.
Implementing the Framework:
- Training and Support: Regular and mandatory training for clinicians, administrators, and consumers is crucial. This includes training on the technology itself and conducting telehealth-specific assessments and building rapport online.
- Technological Enhancements: Consistent use of a single video conferencing platform, user-friendly hardware, and a feedback mechanism to improve the platform based on user experiences are recommended.
- Organizational Policies: Develop clear telehealth policies, including safety protocols, telehealth champions, and administrative support. Standardize telehealth templates and procedures across departments.
- Consumer Engagement: Promote telehealth to consumers through educational campaigns and provide comprehensive support to ensure they can effectively participate in telehealth sessions.
By adopting these strategies, allied health services can create a sustainable telehealth model that enhances care delivery, improves consumer satisfaction, and supports clinician engagement.
To read the original research paper, please follow this link: Beyond forced telehealth adoption: A framework to sustain telehealth among allied health services.
