Curating the latest updates, news and announcements related to telehealth in the U.S.
As organizations across the country continue to adapt to the pandemic’s ever-changing environment, finding resources that meet people’s health needs is
critical. Telehealth has proven to be an invaluable tool for providers and patients. The latest equity and telehealth news round-up covers the legal issues around telehealth, telehealth in rural America, addressing equity issues around telehealth at a rheumatology center, access to telehealth for seniors and providing telehealth for people with substance-use disorders.
The future of telemedicine is complicated
Telehealth has been a resourceful tool for health care providers and patients since the beginning of the pandemic. With some states letting their public health emergencies expire, telehealth finds itself in the crosshairs. Wall Street Journal reporter Brian Gormley speaks about the changes on the horizon for telehealth and its effect on doctors treating their patients. Listen to the Marketplace Tech podcast to learn more.
Utilizing telehealth to improve healthcare in rural America
Access to healthcare in rural America is limited. Nearly 60 million Americans live in rural areas, and one-fifth do not have access to medical specialists in their community. The impact of COVID-19 has only exacerbated these disparities. Can telehealth fill some of the gaps in care? Here are a few ways telehealth can improve care in these communities.
Rheumatology center working to address equity issues around telehealth services
There is an equity problem in telehealth services for certain patients. A study at an urban rheumatology center found significant disparities based on English-language proficiency, age, race and income. Jenna Thomason, MD, MPH at the University of Washington in Seattle, spoke about these inequalities during a virtual press conference, citing low telehealth use rates among Black, Latinx, older, non-English speaking or poor. Learn more about the equity issues facing rheumatology patients.
Seniors require more attention for telehealth services
The Massachusetts Association of Health Plans released preliminary results on who uses telehealth and disparities by race and age. These finds show that older adults are far less likely to use telehealth. Experts suggest that a lack of comfort and inability to use technology are the culprit. Read more about the use of telehealth for older adults.
Can telehealth save people with a substance-use disorder?
People with substance-use disorder (SUD) are stigmatized. Telehealth offers a safe and viable option for these patients. At least 21 million Americans have a SUD, but only about 10% get treatment. Patients with a SUD who fear the waiting room and the stigma associated with traditional SUD treatment may benefit from telehealth services. Learn more about telehealth care for SUD patients.
Offering equitable telehealth care for marginalized communities requires access to care. Enhancing telehealth services for individuals can help improve health care options for patients and providers. Learn more about Virginia Telehealth Networks’ effort toward improving equity in telehealth. Become a member of VTN to gain access to webinars, supplementary materials, and other members-only content.