People Issues in Telehealth

Abstract

The use of telehealth has expanded rapidly over the past decade. Mid- to large-level employers, healthcare systems, non-traditional care settings, and patients individually have embraced these technologies to improve access to care, enhance efficiency, and better enable the patient-centered approach. Research overwhelmingly demonstrates patient satisfaction with care received via telehealth. While regulatory and technical considerations are often cited barriers to telehealth’s growth, human factors remain the more challenging to address.

This chapter provides an overview of telehealth through the lens of the theoretical model—the Diffusion of Innovation. It reviews specifically the human factors needed for a successful telehealth encounter and program. Interprofessional team-based care delivery through telehealth is discussed. Finally, elements of human interaction with telehealth technology that optimize patient experience are considered.