Unveiling the ATA Nexus Event: A Confluence of Telehealth Minds

Unpacking the New Healthcare Legislation Markup

The new healthcare legislation markup was introduced a day after ATA Nexus wrapped this year and its contents have significant implications to the industry. While the hope is to extend telehealth services permanently past the current expiration date of 2024, it represents a step in the right direction. This legislation aims to establish a stable environment for telehealth, giving providers and patients alike the assurance that virtual care options will remain available and will be integrated into standard healthcare protocols. As we review the details of the markup, it is clear that there are provisions to support medicare beneficiaries and promote virtual care reimbursements, which is a critical factor for the sustainability of telehealth services. Moreover, the legislation promotes telehealth as an option for behavioral health services, a widely underserved need especially in rural communities.

The Impact of the Congressional Review Act (CRA) Deadline

The 2024 election cycle presents significant uncertainties for the future of telehealth services. The Congressional Review Act (CRA) is a key legislative tool that enables a new administration to repeal final decisions made by federal agencies during the last months of the preceding elected office. This provision creates a pressing deadline that influences both policymakers and telehealth industry leaders to act swiftly. 

The importance of this deadline extends beyond mere legislative action; it acts as a critical catalyst for strategic planning across the telehealth sector. Industry leaders are compelled to devise contingency plans and strategize on maintaining continuity of services, regardless of political shifts. The failure to secure an extension by the deadline could potentially disrupt the advancements made in extending telehealth services, which have become increasingly important in delivering accessible healthcare.

However, there is a prevailing sense of hope within the sector. Many believe that the bipartisan support for telehealth is strong enough to ensure some level of durability, even if the extension is passed after the deadline or if there is a change in administration. This belief underscores the recognized value of telehealth services in enhancing healthcare access and efficiency.

The process will be closely scrutinized by various stakeholders, particularly the ATA Action committee, which is committed to advocating for telehealth policies. Their involvement is crucial as they monitor the legislative process, engage with policymakers, and ensure that the interests of the telehealth community are well represented. This vigilance is essential in navigating the complexities introduced by the election cycle and in securing a favorable outcome for the continuation and expansion of telehealth services.

Integrating Telehealth into Hospital and Primary Care Settings

The Role of Telehealth in Efficient Patient Management

Telehealth has proven to be a game-changer in the realm of patient management. Its integration into both hospital and primary care settings has shown significant improvements in how healthcare providers can offer timely and personalized care. By utilizing telehealth technologies, healthcare systems are able to reduce the burden on physical facilities, allowing for better patient triage and quicker response times for non-emergency consultations. This is especially beneficial in managing chronic conditions, where regular monitoring and communication are essential. Telehealth facilitates a flow of information between patient and provider, which is key to proactive care management and preventing hospital readmissions. Additionally, as data analytics becomes more sophisticated, telehealth systems can help identify trends and risk factors, leading to more effective population health management strategies. The result is not only a more efficient healthcare delivery model but also one that can lead to better patient outcomes.

Reducing the Strain on Facility-Based Services with Telehealth

Telehealth’s ascension within the healthcare sector is partly due to its ability to alleviate the pressure on facility-based services. By providing an alternative pathway for patient consultations and follow-ups, telehealth can significantly reduce the number of in-person visits, which in turn decreases the congestion in waiting rooms and lowers the demand for physical space. This shift is particularly critical during peak times, such as flu season or in the midst of a pandemic, where healthcare facilities often reach or exceed capacity. Telehealth not only offers patients convenience but also ensures that those with acute conditions can access the care they need more promptly. Another aspect of reducing strain on facilities is the cost savings associated with virtual visits, which can be less resource-intensive than traditional care delivery methods. These efficiencies can be reinvested into healthcare systems to further enhance patient services and care quality.

The Role of AI in the Future of Virtual Nursing

AI Support for Nursing Staff: Promise for Improved Patient Outcomes

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is poised to significantly support nursing staff by enhancing patient care and outcomes. AI-powered tools can offer continuous monitoring, analyze patient data in real-time, and predict potential complications before they become critical. This level of insight allows nurses to prioritize patient care more effectively and intervene promptly. For example, AI algorithms can alert nursing staff to subtle changes in a patient’s condition that may not be immediately apparent, enabling early treatment and reducing the risk of adverse events. Beyond monitoring, AI can assist with administrative tasks, freeing nurses to spend more time on direct patient care. This intersection of technology and human expertise creates a partnership where AI handles routine and data-intensive tasks, allowing nurses to focus on the complex, compassionate aspects of care that require a human touch. 

Deploying AI Technologies Effectively within Existing Healthcare Frameworks

Successfully integrating AI into healthcare requires careful planning and execution. For AI technologies to be effective, they must be deployed within the existing healthcare frameworks in a way that complements and enhances current practices. This involves ensuring that AI tools are interoperable with existing health information systems and can communicate seamlessly with other technologies. Training is also a key component; healthcare professionals must be equipped with the knowledge to use AI applications effectively. It’s not just about adopting technology, but about adapting workflows to optimize the use of AI. Privacy and security are also paramount, as the use of AI involves handling sensitive patient data. Thus, compliance with regulations like HIPAA in the United States is crucial. By addressing these considerations, healthcare providers can harness the full potential of AI to improve care delivery without disrupting the foundational elements of the healthcare system.

Bridging Healthcare Needs in Rural Communities via Telehealth

The Role of Technology in Overcoming Geographical Barriers

Technology, specifically telehealth, has emerged as a key solution in addressing the challenges faced by rural communities in accessing healthcare. By eliminating the need for long-distance travel to receive medical attention, telehealth helps to overcome geographical barriers that have historically limited healthcare availability in these regions. Through video consultations, remote monitoring, and mobile health applications, patients in rural areas can receive timely and quality care directly from their homes or local clinics. This not only increases the accessibility of healthcare services but also improves the management of chronic diseases and reduces emergency room visits. Furthermore, telehealth initiatives can support local healthcare providers by connecting them with specialists and continuing education opportunities, thereby enhancing the overall capacity of rural healthcare systems. The integration of technology into rural healthcare delivery is not just a convenience; it’s a necessity for equitable healthcare across diverse populations.

Ensuring Timely Medical Care for Underserved Populations

Telehealth has a crucial role in offering timely medical care to underserved populations, particularly those in rural or remote areas. By providing access to medical services that would otherwise be unavailable or difficult to reach, telehealth reduces the risk of delayed diagnoses and treatments, which can have a profound impact on health outcomes. This is especially important for managing time-sensitive conditions where early intervention can be life-saving. Additionally, telehealth services can help manage and prevent chronic diseases by offering regular follow-up and education, which are essential for patients who might not have the means to travel for frequent in-person visits. By bridging the gap in healthcare access, telehealth not only addresses immediate medical needs but also contributes to the long-term well-being of these communities. Ensuring that these technologies are accessible and user-friendly for all patients, regardless of location or socioeconomic status, remains a priority for the healthcare industry.

The Future of Telehealth: Challenges and Advancements

The Promise of a Connected and Efficient Healthcare System

The telehealth revolution holds the promise of a more connected and efficient healthcare system, capable of meeting the demands of the modern patient and clinician alike. Through the integration of telehealth technologies, the exchange of medical information is both instantaneous and secure, leading to better-coordinated care and improved health outcomes. Telehealth can streamline processes, reduce redundancies, and enable healthcare providers to focus on delivering high-quality care. With the capability to provide real-time data and analytics, telehealth systems help in making informed decisions, tailoring treatments to individual patient needs, and predicting health trends. Moreover, telehealth facilitates collaboration among healthcare professionals, regardless of their physical location, which is essential for complex case management and interdisciplinary care. As this technology continues to advance, the potential for a healthcare system that is not only more responsive but also more proactive is on the horizon, reshaping the way healthcare is delivered globally.

Leveraging Technology to Meet Modern Patient and Clinician Demands

The ongoing evolution of telehealth is largely driven by the need to meet the increasing demands of modern patients and clinicians for more accessible, efficient, and personalized healthcare. Patients today expect convenience, flexibility, and rapid access to care, which telehealth can provide through online appointments, e-prescriptions, and digital monitoring tools. For clinicians, telehealth technologies offer the potential to manage their workload more effectively, reduce the time spent on administrative tasks, and enhance patient engagement and compliance. By leveraging big data, predictive analytics, and machine learning, healthcare providers can also gain deeper insights into patient health patterns, enabling more precise and preventive care strategies. In essence, the adoption of telehealth technologies responds to the call for a healthcare system that is not only more accessible but also more attuned to the individual needs of each patient, which is fundamental in the transition towards value-based care.

The post Exploring the Future of Telehealth at ATA Nexus, Phoenix appeared first on Digital Scientists.

So, what is a Proof of Concept?

A Proof of Concept (PoC) is the litmus test for your digital investment idea. It’s the trial run, the experimental phase where your concept meets reality in a controlled setting. In essence, a PoC lets you confirm the viability of your concept before committing to full-scale development.

Why Invest in a Proof of Concept?

1. Market Relevance and Precision:

• Market Dynamics: Industries evolve, and so do customer needs. A PoC helps validate your concept’s relevance in the present market dynamics, aligning your offering with what your customers seek.
• Targeted Solutions: It provides insights to fine-tune your concept, ensuring it’s a precise solution to a recognized market challenge or demand.

2. Strategic Resource Allocation:

• Resource Efficiency: In an established company, resources are like gold. A PoC ensures that these valuable assets are channeled into projects with a validated potential for success, preventing resource waste and a potentially failed project.
• Strategic Investment: A PoC helps in directing the budget where it matters most, optimizing allocation for projects that demonstrate promising potential, and fostering fiscal responsibility.

3. Innovation as a Competitive Advantage:

• Staying Ahead: Today’s innovation is tomorrow’s standard. A well-validated PoC encourages a culture of innovation, positioning your company at the forefront of industry advancements.
• Accelerating Time-to-Market: A well-executed PoC expedites the journey from concept to market-ready product, providing a competitive edge by swiftly introducing your solution to the market, ahead of your competitors.

The Impact of a Well-Executed Proof of Concept

1. Strategic Decision-making:

Informed Choices: With a PoC in hand, your decisions are well-informed, backed by real data and insights. It’s about making choices that drive your business toward success with clarity and conviction.

2. Stakeholder Confidence:

Building Trust: Stakeholders, be they investors or clients, are more likely to have faith in a well-researched and validated concept. Confidence grows when they see your dedication to substantiate ideas with tangible evidence.

3. Product Excellence:

Quality Assurance: By validating your concept early, you pave the way for a superior final product. The feedback and insights gathered during PoC guide the refinement process, ensuring your product meets or exceeds expectations.

Paving a Path of Success

A Proof of Concept isn’t just a step; it’s a strategic move toward long-term success. It’s about more than testing the waters; it’s about driving innovation, optimizing resources, and staying ahead in a competitive market.

At Digital Scientists, we’re not just advocates for PoCs; we’re believers in their power to redefine your digital ventures, unlocking unparalleled value and potential.

Want to discover how a PoC can shape your next digital investment? Reach out to us for a complimentary consultation with one of our product experts.

The post Uncover business benefits through a proof of concept appeared first on Digital Scientists.

The Essence of a Proof of Concept

A Proof of Concept is essentially a preliminary study – a trial run of your idea. It provides a tangible demonstration of the concept’s feasibility, viability, and desirability, helping businesses to validate and evaluate the potential of their digital product before a full-scale development commitment. Often seen as a prototype or pilot project, a PoC enables stakeholders to visualize the concept’s practicality and potential, guiding informed decisions on its continuation or alteration.

Tailored for Established Companies

For established companies looking to leverage a new digital product to enhance their customer experience (CX) or open new revenue streams, the stakes are high. They need to innovate while protecting their digital investments. Here’s how a PoC can strategically benefit them:

1. Market Relevance and Competition

In a rapidly changing market, staying relevant is vital. A PoC validates if your concept aligns with the market’s current needs, giving you a competitive edge. It ensures you invest in concepts that are contemporary and demanded, steering clear of outdated or irrelevant ideas.

2. Strategic Resource Allocation

When it comes to digital investments, efficient resource allocation is vital.  Companies tend to put their top highest-paid performers on new innovative ideas which might seem like a good idea to start, but without concept validation, it results in significant time and mind share losses for the organization. A PoC ensures resources are directed towards initiatives with a higher likelihood of success, optimizing allocation for projects that demonstrate promising potential. This minimizes wasted efforts and resources on ideas that may not resonate with the market. 

3. Sustained Growth and Innovation

Innovation is the lifeblood of sustained growth. A well-validated PoC enables innovation in a pragmatic way, fostering a culture of creativity backed by business value. It acts as a catalyst for continuous improvement and evolution within the organization.

A Success Story: Transforming Healthcare with CommuniCare

Let’s take a glimpse at CommuniCare, one of the nation’s largest post-acute care organizations. They were seeking to enhance the patient experience of their current patient population. 

Digital Scientists stepped in and created a proof of concept from an innovative idea that eventually grew into an entire custom ecosystem that digitally drives the company today. This transformed how they connected with patients, lowered overhead costs, reduced human error, and allowed for geographic expansion, reaching new patient populations continuously.

Without a phased approach that started with a PoC, CommuniCare’s story could have ended much differently. 

There’s no shortage of apps that have failed on the market, or worse, permanently damaged a company’s reputation. As we say at Digital Scientists, those are the case studies that never get written. The true exception to the rule is an app idea turned into a reality that creates a real impact on a business’s growth trajectory. 

In Closing: A Strategic Step Forward

Ensuring your product idea is viable isn’t just a step; it’s a strategic move. At Digital Scientists, we’ve been creating custom software solutions since 2007, using our business know-how and a proven phased approach to bring ideas to life.

Ready to innovate with confidence and protect your digital investments? Get in touch with us for a free consultation with one of our product experts.

By acing a Proof of Concept, you’re not just testing an idea; you’re positioning your business toward a future of growth and innovation. Take this strategic leap, reduce risks, and maximize your ROI.

The post A proof of concept to protect digital investments appeared first on Digital Scientists.

Table of Contents

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WHAT IS REMOTE PATIENT MONITORING?

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RPM BY THE NUMBERS

RPM Market Leaders

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WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF REMOTE PATIENT MONITORING?

Key benefits of RPM

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HOW REMOTE PATIENT MONITORING WORKS?

RPM use case

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OUR APPROACH TO BUILDING RPM SYSTEMS

RPM planning, implementation & post-implementation support

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GENERAL FAQ

What is a remote patient monitoring device?

Is it better to buy or build a remote patient monitoring device?

How long does it take to build An RPM solution?

How much does it cost to build an RPM app?

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What is remote patient monitoring?

Remote patient monitoring (RPM) is a digital health solution that enables healthcare professionals to monitor and capture patients’ health data outside a traditional healthcare environment. Remote patient monitoring technologies collect and record patient data for review, diagnosis, and clinical management. New monitoring devices are emerging daily, but a few common examples include blood pressure monitors, cardiac implants, and blood glucose meters. Below are a few stats that demonstrate RPM’s emerging role in healthcare.

RPM by the numbers

The global remote patient monitoring market is projected to triple to $175 billion by 2027. Some key factors driving this growth are the rising number of chronic diseases, a growing geriatric population, and advancements in telecommunications.

*Source: Strategic Market Research LLP

RPM statistics

Benefits of Remote Patient Monitoring?

Accelerated by the pandemic, RPM has proved to be one of the most significant drivers in reshaping the Health at Home model. Now widely accepted by hospitals and health systems worldwide, RPM offers convenience to consumers while reducing time spent in high-cost settings like hospitals and assisted living.

Key benefits of Remote Patient Monitoring

How remote patient monitoring works

RPM enables patients with chronic or recurring conditions to receive continuous monitoring and treatment outside a clinical setting. This allows clinicians to collect patient data in real-time, thus reducing the need for routine in-patient visits while strengthening the patient-clinician relationship. See the use case below to learn how a diabetes patient can better manage their care using an RPM app.

Remote Patient Monitoring use case

Michelle has Type 2 diabetes and needs round-the-clock monitoring of her blood glucose levels.

A physician-led care team provides Michelle with a connected glucometer that allows for the automatic wireless transmission of blood glucose readings to the team. The team also gives Michelle a mobile app to help track her blood sugar and other health indicators. Michelle can view her care plan, log food intake, order test strips, and receive health coaching through the app. Michelle is instructed to self-test her blood glucose daily. A care team member reviews the transmitted readings and follows up with Michelle if her results show a deterioration in glycemic control. The care team also provides Michelle with ongoing coaching through the app.

Every month, the RPM vendor sends a report to Michelle’s primary care provider with an update on her glycemic control and condition. In addition to the monthly reports, the vendor contacts Michelle’s primary care provider if any other health issues arise.

Michelle’s RPM solution helps reduce her need for in-person visits and promotes early intervention by clinicians who track her data digitally. Through easier access to diabetes care management, Michelle can better maintain healthy blood sugar levels and improve her overall health outcome.

15 steps to RPM implementation

As more organizations discover how RPM can transform care delivery and improve patient outcomes, many are making RPM a strategic priority. Not sure where to start? Here are 15 quick steps to guide you through RPM planning and implementation.

Pre-planning phase

1. Identify a specific need and desired outcome

What challenges are you facing as an organization? What patient needs are not being met today that could be improved with RPM in place? RPM can be used to track a wide range of conditions, including heart disease, diabetes, asthma, and Parkinson’s. Your frontline staff can help you identify the pain points and opportunities RPM can most effectively address in the day-to-day needs of patients and clinicians.

2. Validate your product with real users

Are you taking a patient- and provider-centric approach when considering your RPM solution? Get to know your users’ needs, pain points, and desired outcomes through a systematic approach to user research. 

3. Align stakeholders

Are your teams aligned on process and intended outcomes? Successful RPM implementation needs executive buy-in and commitment across departments, including clinician, administrative, and IT teams.

4. Form your internal team

Have you identified key individuals to lead? Implementing an RPM system requires an organization-wide commitment and a leadership team comprised of individuals from each department who will touch the RPM system. Recruit your most innovative thinkers to lead the initiative.

5. Evaluate ‘buy vs build’ scenarios

What are the pros and cons of buying or building an RPM system? Health professionals are overwhelmed by countless digital products that have failed to address the specific needs of patients and providers. Evaluate the pros and cons of buying an off-the-shelf product vs. building a custom product.

Planning phase

6. Vendor selection

Have you considered your team’s capabilities and time capacity for your initiative? Internal IT typically does not have the same skill-sets as a product, design, and custom software development company, yet it will be a key partner in integrations, security, and compliance. Also, evaluate the pros and cons of using a vendor with onshore vs. offshore resources.

7. Define the ecosystem

How will you set up a secure RPM ecosystem? Your internal IT team will be a critical stakeholder in signing off on your implementation. You’ll need a full stack of technologies, including Bluetooth connectivity, a mobile interface, a server for data transfer, and secure data storage. In addition, the ecosystem must be reliable & fault-tolerant, with continuous device functionality with or without an internet connection.

8. Define the user experience

How well do you understand your user’s journey? A frictionless user experience is critical to user adoption. You’ll need an intuitive interface specific to your users and their conditions. For example, can your patient operate the device and system on their own without the help of vendor training?

9. Blueprint a process

Who will help you outline each step in the implementation process? When considering an RPM system, you’ll need an experienced partner to outline each step, from identifying technology requirements to planning for scale.

10. Map out your workflow & integration needs

How will RPM integrate into your practice and network? Establishing a workflow across departments can help you identify integration points and ensure system continuity. In addition, you’ll need to implement privacy and security controls throughout the ecosystem to safeguard patient data and prevent medical identity theft.

Implementation phase

11. Design, develop and iterate

Product acceptance is critical to getting your program off the ground. A strong product, design, and development team can ensure that the right product is built for the right end users. The more upfront effort you put into validating the correct experience, the faster you will get to market with high quality.

12. Launch a beta program

Have you considered a beta program to test your system with real users? Launching a beta program is one of the most effective ways to gather user feedback and fix any bugs before a final release. Work with your vendor to set up a training program and quick-reference guides for your staff and patients. Proper training will ensure user adoption

13. Evaluate success

How will you measure patient engagement? By defining goals on the front end, you can track program success and communicate findings to your internal stakeholders.

14. Anticipate scale

Do you have the resources and infrastructure to scale your program? In the planning stage, anticipate what you’ll need for future growth.

15. Plan for post-implementation support

Have you considered all your post-launch support needs? Post-launch support is critical to the ongoing functionality and security of RPM systems. Ensure that you have support staff who can provide ongoing software maintenance and are fully trained in HIPAA compliance.

The future of RPM

Remote patient monitoring is transforming healthcare. Now one of the most effective tools used to treat chronic and acute conditions, RPM has entered the mainstream as a powerful solution that can provide more timely and efficient care. As healthcare providers continue to harness the power of RPM, new healthcare applications will proliferate – along with more ways to deliver high-quality care that will improve the patient experience.

Let us help you start your RPM journey today!

Remote Patient Monitoring FAQs

Is telehealth the same as RPM?

Not quite. Telehealth refers to an industry that uses telecommunication as a way for healthcare providers to care for patients remotely, without an in-person visit. The most common example of telehealth is video conferencing.

RPM is a subset of telehealth. RPM specifically refers to the practice of monitoring and capturing patients’ health data outside a typical healthcare setting using wearables, IoT devices, and sensors.  

What are the most common devices used for remote patient monitoring?

New RPM devices are being developed each day, but the most common type of device currently used is a smartwatch, blood pressure monitor, blood glucose monitor, pulse oximeter, smart scale, spirometer, and medical alert system.

What diseases can be managed using RPM devices?

Many chronic conditions can be monitored using RPM systems, and the list is growing. Among the diseases that are often managed using RPM devices are hypertension, diabetes, congestive heart failure, COPD, hypertension, pneumonia, and post-surgical cases.

Who can use RPM?

With the expansion of telehealth during the COVID-19 crisis, more patients than ever can now have access to healthcare through RPM devices. In 2021, the Center for Medicaid and Medicare Services (CMS) issued a final rule that practitioners may provide RPM services to remotely collect and analyze physiologic data from established patients if the monitoring is reasonable, medically necessary, and “used to develop and manage a treatment plan related to a chronic and/or acute health illness or condition.”

The post Remote patient monitoring: Quick reference guide appeared first on Digital Scientists.

As consumers feel the impact of rising out-of-pocket healthcare costs, they are looking for greater value for their money and the kind of customer experience that mirrors that of other service sectors. These shifting expectations have reversed the dynamic between patients and healthcare providers. Consumers are now in the driver’s seat, wanting more control over their healthcare and seeking convenience, seamless communication, and instant access to their personal health information. 

To bridge the gap between rising patient expectations and healthcare operations, leading healthcare providers are implementing a digital front door strategy that focuses on providing patients with the kind of access, flexibility, and self-service convenience that they’ve come to expect in a digital world.

What is a digital front door strategy?

A digital front door is a consumer-centric approach that uses technology to connect patients and providers at every touchpoint along the patient care journey. By leveraging devices that consumers have already adopted for personal use, a digital front door delivers an integrated, seamless healthcare experience that deepens patient engagement and gives consumers more visibility into their own health management.

Why is a digital front door important today?

According to a McKinsey report, telemedicine has sustained an astonishing 3,800% increase over its pre-COVID baseline, dramatically eliminating the need for many in-person patient visits. During the initial stages of the pandemic, telemedicine offered a critical and convenient bridge to care. Now that patients can resume in-person visits, both consumers and providers alike see the many benefits of a long-term virtual care strategy.

Upside of virtual care

The positive impact of virtual care extends to both consumers and providers. From a patient perspective, 76% of surveyed consumers expressed an interest in telehealth. On the provider side, 58% of clinicians view telehealth more favorably now than they did before the start of the pandemic. Virtual care is here to stay, and health systems must increasingly look for new ways to deliver patient-driven care. A digital front door strategy can connect patients to the care they need, when and where they need it – delivering value-based care beyond physical walls.

Virtual care opens endless possibilities that can improve access to care while also containing costs. From triaging patients remotely to managing chronic illness at home, here are just a few patient and provider advantages:

Patient benefits

• Enables consumers to easily access care when they need it, through channels that are most convenient for them
• Improves patient experience
• Reduces infection rates
• Improves assessment
• Strengthens family support
• Improves chronic condition management
• Aids patients with limited mobility
• Expedites timely care

Provider advantages

• Drives efficiency in processes such as appointment self-scheduling and care- coordination
• Reduces emergency department visits
• Enhances clinician satisfaction, reduces burnout
• Decreases patient transfers
• Reaches a larger patient population
• Improves access to care in rural communities 
• Reduces repetitive tasks, freeing up staff for more value-added tasks
• Helps to attract new patients and retain them
• Reduces readmissions

How does a digital front door work?

A digital front door strategy improves patient access to care by using a wide range of digital services and features. From scheduling their own appointments to managing chronic care at home, patients can tap into a broad range of services through a single access point. All a patient needs is a mobile device or access to the internet.

A digital front door provides patients with a single access point for all their virtual interactions. It serves an entry point into a host of provider services, accessible – whenever and wherever.

How a digital front door improves patient outcomes

With rising expectations for on-demand health services, it’s not surprising that a growing number of consumers are choosing health care providers based primarily on their digital offerings. According to a study by NRC Health, 77% of patients begin their healthcare search online, which makes it critically important for hospitals and health systems to implement a digital front door strategy that can effectively engage consumers by providing online access to:

• Location data and hours of operation
• Self-scheduling
• Virtual interactions and appointments
• Estimated wait times for emergency and urgent care

Further, an effective digital front door approach uses a broad range of digital devices and features to create an integrated, frictionless healthcare experience at every touchpoint in the patient’s journey. From appointment scheduling to follow-up care, a digital front door can help empower consumers to take a proactive role in their health, using their own devices to access health services and information when it’s most convenient for them. This anytime-anywhere access can remove barriers to care and promote proactive care management.

A digital front door can address social determinants of health

Removing barriers to care is particularly significant for populations with limited access to healthcare. A key determinant of health is access to affordable and decent healthcare services. A virtual care model can help improve access to care in rural and urban areas where, according to the NIH, barriers to healthcare include:

• Patient complexity
• Resource limitations
• Service access
• Training constraints
• Patient avoidance of care

In the global effort to achieve health equity, a digital front door approach can help move us one step closer. Through a single point of access to clinical assessment, virtual visits, health education, and personal health records, it’s now possible to provide access to those at greatest risk of poor health due to social conditions.

How to implement a digital front door strategy

With the growing ability to expand healthcare access to a broader population, a digital care strategy is now more important – and attainable – than ever.

Before the pandemic, there were several roadblocks to implementing a digital front door strategy. Among the challenges were technical capabilities, stakeholder buy-in, user adoption, and concerns about privacy and regulatory compliance. But as the pandemic abruptly forced consumers into remote care models, the shift sparked explosive growth in virtual health services, the majority of which are now here to stay. This broad acceptance of virtual care services among both patients and providers has now opened the digital door to a host of opportunities that can help connect, engage, and monitor patients outside the physical walls of a building. As organizations see the upside and growing necessity of providing a full suite of digital care services, the next step is knowing where to begin. Here’s 10-step plan that can get you started.

Digital front door implementation: 10 tips

1. Plan to increase your investment in digital care

According to a HIMSS report, 80% of health systems plan to increase their investment levels in technology and digital healthcare over the next five years. As patients increasingly demand digital convenience, many organizations recognize the importance of integrating digital solutions into their existing infrastructure to help them attract new patients and retain them.

2. Get everyone aboard and aligned

Prior to the pandemic, getting everyone on board with a digital care model took Herculean efforts. Concerns ranged from technophobia to security risks. In healthcare today, there is no room for laggards. Find your digital champions and elevate them to leadership roles.

3. Map an outline, identify gaps, and prioritize digital touch points across your service ecosystem

As you begin analysis for your digital front door strategy, map an outline of existing digital touch points across your service continuum. Identify gaps and then prioritize technologies that you’ll need to fill these gaps. Currently, there is no standalone solution that can serve as an all-in-one plug and play. You’ll need a team that can help you identify vendors and evaluate solutions that can be integrated into your existing infrastructure.

4. Achieve interoperability throughout your digital ecosystem

Seamless data sharing between systems is critical to protecting privacy and meeting regulatory requirements. To achieve true interoperability and ensure the secure exchange of information throughout your ecosystem, it’s imperative to select providers with interoperability specialization in healthcare.

5. Focus your efforts on user design and the digital experience

Many younger consumers are choosing health care providers based primarily on their digital offerings, according to a recent NRC Health study. An integrated and seamless customer experience is critical to attracting patients and retaining them. Where patient expectations previously focused on the technical quality of medical care, now the emphasis is shifting to convenience, cost, and personalized service.

6. Clearly represent your offerings

Today’s consumers expect instant access to information. Be sure to present your services and offerings clearly and through an interactive design that will engage visitors. This initial touchpoint is the digital front door through which all interactions can occur.

7. Develop a digital triage tool

Consumers typically search the web when they develop symptoms. This serves as one of the best opportunities to engage and acquire new patients. Symptom triage tools, like AI chatbots, can be used effectively to qualify patient needs and direct them to the right offerings.

8. Offer online self-scheduling and digital check-in

Patient self-scheduling is one of the easiest ways to increase patient engagement and minimize cancellations and no-shows. Scheduling an appointment is generally a patient’s first interaction with a healthcare provider. First impressions are critical, so it’s important to create a seamless process for online appointments and check-ins.

9. Incorporate online payment tools

Improve claims management and reduce long reimbursement timelines. By incorporating online payment tools, you can reduce payment collection timelines, non-payment rates, and eliminate costs and time associated with manual payments.

10. Partner with internal IT on security and integrations

No one knows your security risks better than your IT department. Leverage your team’s knowledge and experience by fully engaging IT in your digital front-door implementation. An integrated security system is central to information flow and can increase response times across all systems.

What’s the ROI on digital front door implementation?

To demonstrate value, a digital front door transformation must use hard ROI – figures that can be quantified. Given the complexity of hospitals and health systems, collaboration with a trusted partner will be essential in developing an ROI model for your stakeholders. As you set out to examine your level of investment in digital offerings, or future software development consider these figures.

Digital front door: Figures and facts

Savings and benefits to providers

Savings and benefits to consumers

The post What is a digital front door? appeared first on Digital Scientists.

From counting steps to monitoring blood glucose, powerful mobile wellness apps are providing users with greater visibility and self-management of their health, fitness, and nutrition data while also giving healthcare providers access to their patients’ critical health information.

Last year, consumers downloaded health and fitness apps approximately 2.5 billion times worldwide, and this trend is likely to continue as hospitals and healthcare networks race to further develop mobile apps that will help them improve healthcare delivery, operational efficiency, and drive down costs.

Toward this goal, healthcare providers are seeking partnerships with technology companies to help them supercharge their innovation efforts. At the forefront of this healthcare innovation are Apple and Google, which are jockeying into position to expand their ecosystems. Locked in a battle to capture market share, Apple and Google are making significant investments in health-related R&D and further accelerating innovation in wearable devices, sensors, and IoT devices. In their efforts to centralize health data from third-party apps, Apple and Google each hope to securely store and synchronize consumer health data across all of our devices, creating a seamless experience across a variety of apps within a single ecosystem.

How will mobile health apps help consumers? 

As mobile app development drives further expansion of healthcare ecosystems, it’s not just Big Tech that will benefit. Consumers are already seeing more personalized, responsive, and integrated service that’s aimed at improving patient outcomes. Mobile health applications, or mHealth, such as wearables and sensors, are designed for remote patient monitoring (RPM), which delivers real-time monitoring of patient vital signs and symptoms. For the consumer, this means faster response time by healthcare providers, effective patient care delivery, and improved communication across health networks.

And this trend is on the uptick. According to Global Market Insights, the global mHealth market is estimated to reach nearly $300 billion by 2025, up nearly 40% from 2019. Among some of the impressive health tech devices and wearables currently on the market or undergoing FDA approval are:

• Wearable ECG monitors
• Wearable blood pressure monitors
• Biosensors
• Continuous glucose monitoring
• Insomnia therapy headband
• Smart medication dispensing devices

How will mobile health apps help healthcare providers? 

While mobile technology helps consumers better manage their own wellness, healthcare providers also stand to gain from innovation in healthcare app development. By transitioning to digital and cloud technologies, clinicians and healthcare providers can better communicate with their patients and collaborate with their colleagues all within one ecosystem. By seamlessly interconnecting hundreds of sites, devices, and data sources, digital healthcare ecosystems enable healthcare providers to streamline their workflows — and gain access to electronic health record (EHR) data, which is crucial for improving patient care and engaging with patients long-term.

The battle for healthcare data 

In the race to capture and centralize health data is an opportunity to grab a bigger slice of the $3 trillion spent annually on health care. Apple, Google, Amazon, and Microsoft are already accelerating their efforts to develop apps and collaborate on new devices that leverage advanced analytics, machine learning, and the power of the cloud. The result will be a surge in new mobile health apps and devices that promise to benefit consumers, patients, clinicians, and hospitals alike. All good news – or is it?

HIPAA and data privacy

Integrations and deal activity between big tech and healthcare systems raise serious concerns about data privacy. As it stands today, wellness apps routinely request and share user data. And users happily comply. But when it comes to personal health information such as electronic health record (EHR) data, patients have less control of their information. As electronic medical devices become increasingly connected to each other and to other technologies, the free flow of data across devices and healthcare systems introduces security gaps and risks. Apple, for example, is making health data available to third-party apps, but how can users feel confident that their health information is going to remain fully secure? 

The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) establishes the baseline for sensitive patient data protection with its Privacy and Security rules. 

• HIPAA’s Privacy Rule establishes national standards to protect an individual’s medical records and other protected health information (PHI). The rule applies to, among other things, the electronic transmission of health and medical records. 
• The Security Rule, which complements the Privacy Rule, requires that HIPAA-covered entities implement appropriate administrative, physical, and technical safeguards to ensure the confidentiality, integrity, and security of electronic protected health information (ePHI). 

Both the privacy and security provisions are subject to the Enforcement Rule, which penalizes violators with hefty fines. To avoid penalties and reputational risk, HIPAA covered entities will need to put in place effective privacy and security protocols. Achieving and maintaining compliance with Privacy and Security rules requires centralized coordination and a well-managed program that integrates security protocol into day-to-day operations. But with the right controls in place, HIPAA and its Administrative Simplification provisions will ultimately help streamline the transfer of information, thus reducing paperwork, resources, and costs to healthcare providers.

What’s ahead in mobile health technology?

As mobile health technology continues to disrupt healthcare, we can anticipate major shifts within the industry, from the way we monitor our own health and wellness to large-scale digital transformation of healthcare models. Though the healthcare sector has been slow to catch up with other industries in mobile app development, we now can expect to see an explosion of growth in mobile health app technology thanks to a confluence of circumstances accelerated by the pandemic. Whatever is ahead will likely be well worth the wait.

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