Telehealth has revolutionized the medical industry, offering greater access to patient services. These healthcare services are convenient, confidential, and invaluable for busy people or those unable to attend traditional office appointments due to disabilities. Although telehealth options have existed since the late 1960s, advanced technology allows for a more patient-centered and personal experience.
As the demand for telehealth services rises, human resource departments must ensure its integration into employee healthcare plans. HR department heads must research to discover the benefits, specific challenges, and implementation strategies for successful inclusion. Learning more information about telehealth appointments will help HR departments make informed decisions that benefit their employees.
Increased Demand for Telehealth
Although telehealth options have been available for patients for years, they were not widespread. COVID-19 exposed traditional medical care’s vulnerabilities and prompted unprecedented medical intervention needs. With social distancing in place, telehealth became an integral solution. HR departments soon had to adapt to changing employee needs. Implementing programs that helped employees transition to this form of healthcare helped revolutionize the healthcare industry and mainstream telehealth appointments.
Advantages for Employees
Telehealth offers many advantages for employees, most notably enhanced access to medical care. The flexibility to schedule appointments outside of regular business hours and from the comfort of their own homes ensures employees can seek the health care they need without stress.
Reduced Wait Times
Telehealth shortens patients’ wait times for medical consultations. Long wait times can prevent prompt diagnoses and care. Telehealth is especially beneficial for mental health services because it reduces patient embarrassment and offers greater discretion and comfort.
Cost Savings
Telehealth also cuts the cost of patients seeking healthcare. Medical professionals do not have the overhead cost of office space and other associated costs to pass on the savings to patients. Patients save money because they do not commute to see their doctors.
These services can also reduce the costs of seeking healthcare services from emergency rooms or urgent care. Employees can see providers from their homes for a much lower price.
HR Departments Must Raise Awareness and Offer Training
Offering telehealth services to employees affords them greater control over their healthcare needs. HR departments are responsible for raising employee awareness about telehealth programs. They must also provide training to ensure employees understand how to use their devices to access the care they need. Training sessions and instructional materials help employees grow accustomed to this new way of seeking healthcare services.
Privacy and Security Challenges
One of the top telehealth concerns is privacy and security. HR’s role is to ensure that telehealth services comply with all federal regulations, such as those in the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act. It also needs to ensure employees know how the service uses and protects their personal data. HR departments must provide employees with a copy of the privacy policy.
Healthcare Plan Integration
HR departments must work closely with insurance providers to implement telehealth programs. They must negotiate coverage and ensure employees are aware of the telehealth services covered by their plans. Employees must be made aware of any co-pays or out-of-pocket costs. Regular reviews of the coverage will help ensure these programs meet changing employee needs.
Assistance for Technological Barriers
Not all employees have access to advanced technology equipment that allows them to access telehealth services. HR departments should talk to employees and learn about their needs. Consider offering access to smartphones or tablets as part of the tools given to employees. Ensuring employees have a reliable Internet connection to access telehealth services is also essential.
Evaluate the Effectiveness of the Telehealth Program
Evaluating telehealth services allows HR departments to make changes that benefit the company and employees. Seek feedback from employees through surveys and one-on-one meetings. Discover what works well and what is not, and make changes accordingly. Employees will feel more appreciated when asked to give their input on services. Tracking usage, satisfaction, and health outcomes can assist HR departments in making valuable decisions for their employees.
Legal Concerns
HR departments must be aware of any legal or compliance issues related to telehealth services. They must understand state and federal laws to avoid compliance issues that could result in HIPPA violations. Most HR departments seek legal counsel to help them understand the law and implement telehealth programs that meet or exceed the standards.
Building a Strong Relationship with Telehealth Providers
Partnering with the right telehealth organizations is critical for HR departments that want to ensure they implement the best strategies. HR departments must negotiate with providers for clear service agreements. The agreements should outline the responsibilities of all parties to provide a harmonious working partnership. Regular communication between the provider and the HR department ensures employees receive the exemplary healthcare they deserve.
What Does the Future Hold for Telehealth in the Workplace?
More companies are adopting telehealth programs to help employees receive the healthcare services they need with greater convenience, privacy, and comfort. As technology improves, telehealth services will continue to grow, surpassing what is available now.
With virtual reality and AI at the forefront of technology, it will be interesting to see how these impact telehealth services in the future. HR must ensure they stay informed of changing technology as it impacts the telehealth industry and transforms how employees receive the vital medical care services they need.
Telehealth Is Now More Vital Than Ever
Telehealth appointments allow employees the peace of mind of knowing they can seek healthcare advice from home. Busy work schedules often prevent employees from seeking the services they need. HR departments must understand the benefits and ways to overcome any challenges.
HR departments should promote telehealth services to their employees and assist them in gaining the tools and information necessary for using these services. A successful telehealth program begins with partnering with the best providers. These partnerships ensure employee satisfaction and compliance.
HR professionals must conduct careful research, including reviewing case studies, to determine the best provider for their employee telehealth programs. A solid partnership streamlines the implementation process and can ensure challenges are met head-on. A supportive provider will help HR departments and their employees every step of the way.
