How to Use Technology and Telehealth to Enhance the Interprofessional Community of Practice

Abstract

The widespread availability and use of digital technology including the internet, cell phones, remote electrocardiogram, PACS (picture archiving and communication) systems, and video chat platforms such as Facetime and Zoom have fueled the growth of telehealth. In 2013, only about 350,000 Americans utilized telehealth technology as part of their care plan, and most of these patient interactions involved the use of telephone consults. By the end of 2018, that number had jumped to over 7,000,000. Coupled with the exponential increase in the use of telehealth technology has been a rapid decrease in the cost of telehealth technology and HIPAA compliant telehealth platforms. The ease of use and relative affordability of these technologic advances make telehealth technology an ideal tool to enhance the interprofessional community of practice.