To understand the evolution of telemedicine within health informatics, we asked experts this question for their insights. From adapting to rapid technological advances to enhancing access and care continuity, here are the top five trends these professionals have observed and anticipate for the near future.
- Adapting to Rapid Technological Advances
- Increasing Accessibility Through Secure Platforms
- Finding Sustainable Telemedicine Strategies
- Integrating Advanced Diagnostics and Analytics
- Enhancing Access and Care Continuity
Adapting to Rapid Technological Advances
Telemedicine is a constantly evolving landscape, meaning the systems in place have to adapt in parallel. Among the challenges this brings, patient and staff education alike has probably been the most significant one to experience for us personally. As new and exciting technological advances become available, there are more and more opportunities to improve the way we communicate with patients, share medical records, and just serve our patients in general. Being dedicated to providing the best health management means we’re always evaluating new technologies and adapting to better do that.
In the past five years alone, we’ve switched electronic medical records (EMRs) systems twice, changed our primary patient communication channels thrice, and utilized a slew of methods to securely obtain electronic records and patient consent—too many to enumerate. Each introduction of new tech requires some level of staff training and patient education over time—it’s enough to make your head spin!
This rapid pace in tech advancement is indicative of the many ongoing shifts and improvements needed to keep up with our equally changing needs in cybersecurity and telehealth regulations. Eventually, I’m sure we’ll see this progress plateau, allowing for refinement and widespread adoption. However, we are nowhere near seeing that day yet, which despite the occasional headaches, I see as ultimately a positive for everyone. The better we get at perfecting the way we collect and share information, the better we will be at furthering the mission of healing.
Rebekah Hudson
Telehealth Coordinator, Bluegrass Community Health Center
Increasing Accessibility Through Secure Platforms
Telemedicine has evolved significantly in recent years, particularly in the context of health informatics. I have observed an increase in the use of secure digital platforms that facilitate seamless therapy sessions, making mental health services more accessible. Clients who previously faced barriers, such as transportation issues or stigma, can now engage in therapy from the comfort of their homes. This shift has also encouraged a greater emphasis on data security and privacy, which is vital for maintaining trust in the therapeutic relationship.
I foresee several trends emerging in telemedicine, including the integration of artificial intelligence to support client engagement and outcomes. Additionally, there will likely be a rise in hybrid models of care, combining in-person and virtual sessions tailored to individual needs. Through my practice, I’ve noticed a growing demand for culturally tailored interventions delivered through telehealth, which reflects an increasing awareness of diverse client needs. The flexibility offered by telemedicine not only supports client retention but has also allowed for innovative approaches to therapy that were previously unimaginable.
Kristie Tse
Founder & Therapist, Uncover Mental Health Counseling
Finding Sustainable Telemedicine Strategies
Telemedicine was all the rage during the pandemic. It was a quick fix to an urgent and unsafe situation. Now, payers and providers are trying to determine a long-term, sustainable strategy that also meets the needs (and wants) of their patients. Some folks, like United Healthcare and Walmart, opted to sunset their virtual care products. The good news is that health systems and payers want to keep hybrid solutions, and innovation in this arena has only continued to make these offerings more expansive.
Shannon Germain Farraher
Senior Analyst, Forrester Research, Inc.
Integrating Advanced Diagnostics and Analytics
Telemedicine has evolved from a novelty to a cornerstone of health informatics, transforming how we connect with patients. Initially, virtual consultations were limited to basic video calls, but today, we see an integration of advanced diagnostics and real-time data analytics. I anticipate wearable tech will likely play a crucial role in the future, providing continuous health monitoring and instant data or feedback. As we continue to innovate, the goal will be not just convenience, but enhanced accuracy and patient engagement.
David Hill, MD
Plastic Surgeon & Medical Director, Fulcrum Aesthetics & Surgery
Enhancing Access and Care Continuity
Telemedicine has evolved from a supplementary tool to a critical healthcare component over the past decade. We’ve witnessed its role in enhancing patient access and care continuity, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. Key advancements include the integration of Electronic Health Records (EHR) with telehealth platforms for seamless virtual consultations.
Looking ahead, I anticipate enhanced interoperability for better data sharing, increased use of AI for diagnostics and personalized treatments, greater reliance on wearable technology for continuous monitoring, innovations in patient education and rehabilitation through VR and AR, and regulatory advancements to ensure privacy, security, and equitable access. This evolution in health informatics is revolutionizing healthcare delivery, making it more efficient and accessible.
Dr. KC Maasumi
Owner, Maasumi Headache & Spine Care
