Virtual reality: Follow 5 steps to bring telehealth to your medical practice

Why This Topic Matters

Telehealth adoption during the public health emergency required practices to respond quickly to changing payer and regulatory expectations while keeping patients connected to care. The article helps practices understand the operational issues that affect compliant service delivery and planning before temporary waivers end.

Article Sections

1. 1. Dig into the rules for telehealth services during the PHE

   Discusses the need to review payer and regulatory guidance during the public health emergency and to keep practice staff informed about evolving requirements.

2. 2. Communicate the availability of telehealth to patients, create a “how to” guide for telehealth services and be prepared to answer questions

   Covers patient outreach, basic support materials, and communication approaches that help patients understand and access telehealth services.

3. 3. Determine which telehealth or communications-based services your practice will offer

   Reviews the process of deciding which virtual service types a practice will make available and how those choices relate to technology and workflow planning.

4. 4. Create a plan for patients who must come in to the practice

   Addresses contingency planning for patients who still need in-person care, including office flow and infection-control related operational steps.

5. 5. Prepare to transition back to normal

   Focuses on planning for the end of temporary public health flexibilities and anticipating future guidance for post-emergency operations.