Health Information Management and Telehealth

Telehealth refers to the provision of online health services, offering remote clinical care to patients. Telehealth is sometimes referred to as Telemedicine, the two terms are not the same. Telemedicine specifically focuses on providing remote clinical services, such as diagnosing and treating illnesses. Telehealth is not only limited to remote clinical services as it also provides preventative, promotive, and curative care delivery. According to the Health Resources and Services Administration, this also includes non-clinical services such as administration support. Overall, Telehealth includes video consultations, remote monitoring, online health education, and electronic health records (EHR) management. 

Rise of Telehealth

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Telehealth has seen a drastic change that has reshaped healthcare delivery, bringing telehealth into the spotlight as a vital solution for maintaining patient care amid social distancing measures. The demand for Telehealth increased because of remote services, thus offering both opportunities and challenges for healthcare systems and professionals. During the pandemic, telehealth also ensured continuity of care for non-urgent cases. In this article, we will explore the pros and cons of telehealth and its significant impact on Health Information Management (HIM). 

Requirements of Using Telehealth

There are certain things that should be considered to maintain a good quality of communication while professionals and patients use Telehealth: 

• Both patients and healthcare providers should have good internet access with a strong broadband connection. 

• Heathcare providers should fill in the needs assessment to analyze needs and problems. 

• Healthcare providers use four domains including: live video (synchronous), store and forward (asynchronous), remote patient monitoring, and mobile health.  

Advantages of Telehealth

• Convenience: Patients can see their doctors from the comfort of home. There is no need to drive, wait in a crowded clinic, or take time off work. Healthcare providers also benefit from more flexible schedules and the ability to manage more patients. 

• Access to Care: People living in remote areas or far from a doctor’s office can now get medical help easily through telehealth. Telehealth eliminates geographical barriers, and this has been a game-changer for rural communities, elderly patients, and individuals with limited mobility. 

• Faster Appointments: Telehealth often lets you book appointments sooner and spend less time waiting. 

• Cost-Effective: People are able to save money on travel, parking, and sometimes even on the doctor’s fee. Telehealth also reduces overhead costs for healthcare facilities, such as operational expenses for physical infrastructure. 

• Better Monitoring: Tools like apps and devices can help track your health regularly, so doctors can keep an eye on your progress remotely. These technologies allow real-time tracking of vital signs, medication adherence, and lifestyle changes. 

Disadvantages of Telehealth

• Limited Physical Examination: Certain diagnoses and treatments require physical interaction, making telehealth unsuitable for cases that need detailed physical examinations or hands-on procedures. 

• Technological Barriers: Telehealth relies heavily on technology, which can be a problem for patients and providers who lack access to reliable internet or are not aware of digital platforms. 

• Privacy and Security Concerns: Managing sensitive health information digitally poses risks of data breaches and unauthorized access. Providers must ensure compliance with privacy regulations.   

• Not Suitable for Emergencies: Telehealth cannot act as a replacement for serious conditions such as severe injuries or heart attacks that need physical examination.  

Impact of Telehealth on Health Information Management (HIM)

Telehealth has greatly impacted HIM and there has been a need for robust systems to manage, store, and secure patient information. A few things include: 

• Enhanced Role of EHR Systems: Telehealth depends on comprehensive EHRs to facilitate seamless data exchange between providers and patients. HIM professionals play a critical role in ensuring the accuracy and accessibility of these records. 

• Data Security Challenges: The increasing demand for telehealth services has the risk of cyberattacks. HIM teams must implement advanced encryption, multi-factor authentication, and compliance protocols to protect sensitive data. 

• Specific Coding and Billing: Telehealth introduced new billing codes and reimbursement policies. HIM professionals must stay updated on these changes to ensure accurate coding and claim processing. 

• Training and Development: The rapid adoption of telehealth has highlighted the need for ongoing training for HIM professionals to adapt to emerging technologies and practices. 

For HIM professionals, Telehealth presents an opportunity to innovate and refine systems for better data management and patient care. Investments in infrastructure, training, and policy development will be crucial for addressing challenges such as data security, accurate coding, and the integration of emerging technologies. Many Health Information Management programs equip students with the knowledge and practical skills needed to navigate these challenges, emphasizing real-world applications that prepare them to thrive in modern healthcare. By embracing these advancements, HIM professionals can shape the future of healthcare, ensuring Telehealth continues to enhance accessibility, efficiency, and quality of care for patients worldwide.