The healthcare industry is witnessing a significant shift towards virtual care and digital health solutions. These innovations are reshaping the way patients access healthcare services and how providers deliver them. In a recent panel discussion, industry experts shared their insights and predictions on the future of remote patient monitoring (RPM), telehealth, and the integration of digital health into patient care plans.
Watch the on-demand webinar, and download the transcript below.
During the webinar, Sarah Cameron, Vice President of Clinical Strategy for TimeDoc Health, discussed the challenges faced by many providers in effectively leveraging their existing staff to manage RPM alerts, connect with patients, and address care plan adherence. By optimizing staff resources and strengthening patient engagement, providers can leverage RPM technology more effectively, leading to improved patient outcomes.
Another aspect highlighted was the evolving landscape of telehealth, particularly concerning the Medicare population. Contrary to what some may believe, seniors aged 65 to 80 have demonstrated an increasing level of digital literacy. Having been exposed to email, smartphones, and computers during their time in the workforce, this population is seeking enhanced digital opportunities for their healthcare needs. It is vital not to overlook the potential of telehealth for Medicare beneficiaries and to cater to their evolving preferences for digital healthcare experiences.
Looking ahead, Nick Sarantis, System Director of Digital Health for Baptist Health, expressed an optimistic vision where digital health seamlessly integrates into the overall care plan. Moving away from an “either-or” approach of in-person versus digital care, the focus should be on combining both modalities for better healthcare outcomes. Patient engagement in their own healthcare journey is paramount, and digital health plays a significant role in empowering patients. By embracing digital health technologies and promoting patient engagement, the healthcare industry can enhance overall care delivery and achieve better outcomes.
In light of these advancements, Schafer Jackson, Research Director at KLAS Research, emphasized the transition of telehealth from a necessity to a strategic imperative. Patients increasingly demand immediate access to healthcare services and are unwilling to wait for weeks or months for an appointment. This patient-driven demand is propelling the broader adoption of virtual care, telehealth, RPM, and other asynchronous healthcare options. To seize the opportunities presented by this shift, healthcare organizations are advised to focus on specific patient populations or use cases to achieve targeted outcomes. Starting with a focused approach and gradually expanding services can yield better results and align with the evolving needs of both providers and patients.
In conclusion, the future of virtual care and digital health holds great promise. The integration of RPM, telehealth, and other digital health solutions into the healthcare ecosystem has tremendous potential to improve patient outcomes and increase access to care. By embracing digital health as an integral part of the care plan and prioritizing patient engagement, healthcare organizations can navigate the evolving landscape and drive continuous improvement in the delivery of quality care.