8 TECH OUTLOOKAPRIL - 2019Future Trends in TeleHealth By Lynn Gibson, VP/CTO, CHRISTUS HealthTelehealth and telemedicine have been in the active discussion of future trends in healthcare for many years. With the growing change in governmental support, technology, and societal demand for convenience, we continue to see a growing increase in the utilization of telehealth. However, much of the discussions have focused on the perspective of the provider. Yet the current demand for changes are coming more from the end user's demand and expectations. Our end users are more sophisticated on choices and options in delivery of care and their expectations are much higher today than they were just a few years ago. They are growing less tolerant of waiting rooms and long waits for contacting their physician.Historically, telemedicine was not a delivery method that was highly available. The reimbursement model for physicians has not been adopted mainly due to a lack of compensation for their time. It required a significant investment in technology to do anything beyond a simple face-to-face conference call. However, times have changed; majority of the states have instituted legislation to support the payment to physicians who utilize a telemedicine approach. The technology has become more affordable and easier to use.Lynn GibsonIN MY OPINION
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