Overcoming-Patient-Resistance-to-Telemedicine

The ongoing pandemic forced many doctors and patients into setting appointments online. Many are reluctant however as not all parties are familiar with the technology and there are prevalent PHI security risks.

Telehealth is strongly encouraged as health and wellbeing are still priorities during these times. To counteract the above-mentioned problems and put minds at ease, we encourage the adoption of procedures to ensure feasible and safe doctor-patient engagements. 

Many people are reluctant to try telehealth in fear of technical mishaps. Those providing telehealth solutions should assist their clients with detailed walkthroughs, step-by-step tutorials, and even trial calls or simulations for both doctors and patients. To help with the steep learning curve, the application of choice should depend on the doctors’ preference. In circumstances where technical difficulties are too much, clinical coordinators and managers must assist in troubleshooting. 

It is not enough that security measures are enforced – these must be properly communicated to clients who are resistant to telemedicine. They require assurance and the best way to do that is to thoroughly explain the nature and necessity of the online appointment and how these can be secured. Multiple security methods for conducting meetings are ready through available technology. With these safeguards, patients can better relay concerns while doctors can provide more accurate assessments. 

Typically, engagements occur in such order: Should an appointment be scheduled, the patient will be informed via email. They are then to accomplish a form to update their records. Fifteen minutes prior to the actual consultation, the solutions provider will assist the patient in setting up their hardware and ensuring that all required applications are online. Once this pre-test is successful, the actual appointment may begin. At the end of the meeting, the information will be documented in the patient’s EMR chart. The practitioner may then carry on with writing prescriptions to be forwarded to the pharmacy or through other medical assistants. 

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Rey Palmares

Rey Palmares is a writer for Xilium and at the same time a student of the law in the Philippines. His work in Xilium is toward his dreams of being a lawyer and also publishing a book someday. While he is relatively new, his informative and entertaining style of writing shows that Xilium has become a home to the very shy writer.
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