GI Outlook (GO) 2022 Practice Management & Leadership Conference –Getting Back to the Future of Gastroenterology | August 2022-08_The Future of Virtual Healthcare

08_The Future of Virtual Healthcare_Sun

Pdf Summary

The document provides an overview of virtual healthcare, particularly telehealth and telemedicine, and discusses the current state of virtual healthcare and its future. Telehealth is defined as the use of electronic information and telecommunications technologies to provide care when the patient and provider are not in the same location. Different types of telehealth services are described, including synchronous (real-time) and asynchronous services, remote patient monitoring, and mobile health applications. The document also highlights the policy changes and regulations that have facilitated the widespread adoption of telehealth, including waivers and flexibilities during the COVID-19 pandemic.<br /><br />The benefits of virtual healthcare are discussed, such as improved communication between patients and providers, increased efficiency, conservation of personal protective equipment (PPE), and reduced exposure to COVID-19. However, the document acknowledges the potential risks of telehealth, including fraud and abuse, and emphasizes the need for vigilance in monitoring and addressing these issues.<br /><br />The future of virtual healthcare is explored, with the emergence of new care models that combine in-person visits with telemedicine and a greater utilization of asynchronous telemedicine. Advances in technology, such as integrated platforms and remote patient monitoring, are expected to play a significant role in the future of virtual healthcare. The document also mentions various legislative and regulatory initiatives, such as the Digital Medicine Payment Advisory Group and the Medicare Payment Advisory Commission, that will shape the future of virtual healthcare.<br /><br />The document concludes with the contact information of the author, Dr. Edward Sun, and his LinkedIn profile.<br /><br />Overall, the document provides a comprehensive overview of virtual healthcare, including its current status, future prospects, and challenges. It highlights the potential of telehealth and telemedicine to transform healthcare delivery, while also acknowledging the need for ongoing monitoring, regulation, and technological advancements to ensure safe and effective virtual care.

Keywords

virtual healthcare

telehealth

telemedicine

synchronous services

asynchronous services

remote patient monitoring

mobile health applications

policy changes

fraud and abuse

technology