An Asynchronous Telehealth Program can be a Winning Strategy for Value Based Care. Here’s Why.
March 28, 2023 — Asynchronous telehealth and value-based care (VBC) are two concepts that are interconnected and can complement each other. VBC is based on The Triple Aim of health — improving quality of care and patient satisfaction; improving the health of populations; and reducing the cost of services. In this model the emphasis is on preventive care, care management, patient engagement, and quality outcomes (instead of quantity). Asynchronous telehealth is the use of information and communication technology (ICT) such as text, pictures, audio or video to allow remote communication between patients and physicians, without the need of real-time interactions. Here a few ways an asynchronous telehealth program can support VBC:
Improve Patient Outcomes
Facilitates patient engagement: asynchronous telehealth facilitates more frequent and effective communication between patients and providers. This way patients can ask questions and get answers in a timely manner — which can help them better understand their condition and treatment, and feel more engaged in their care.
Allows patients to communicate with their providers at their convenience: asynchronous telehealth allows patients to communicate with their providers at any time, from anywhere, without the need of real-time interactions. This can make it easier for patients to stay engaged and adhere to their treatment plans. Also, patients may feel more comfortable communicating through electronic means, as they can take their time to articulate their concerns or questions.
Increase adherence to treatment plans: asynchronous telehealth allows patients to communicate with their providers when they need it, without having to wait for an appointment. This way patients can address any concerns they may have in a timely manner, which can improve adherence.
Facilitate timely interventions: asynchronous telehealth allows providers to monitor the patients' health and adherence to their treatment remotely. This can help identify any potential issues early on and make adjustments to the treatment as needed.
Reduce Healthcare Costs
Reduce the need for in-person visits: asynchronous telehealth visits can lead to a reduction in facility costs such as staffing, utilities, and maintenance. This can help providers save money. In-person visits require administrative tasks such as scheduling, check-in, and paperwork. With telehealth, these administrative tasks can be streamlined or eliminated, reducing costs for providers.
Minimize unnecessary hospital admissions: asynchronous telehealth can enable providers to monitor patients' health status and detect any changes or issues early on. This way providers can intervene early to prevent a hospitalization.
Improve the efficiency of care delivery: When patients don't have to travel to an appointment, they can save time and money on transportation costs. This can also lead to fewer missed appointments and reduced wait times for both patients and providers, improving efficiency and reducing costs. Asynchronous telehealth allows providers to maximize their time. Patients can send messages, images, or videos of their symptoms, and providers can review them when they have time.
Conclusion
Asynchronous telehealth can be a winning strategy for VBC, leading to improved outcomes, increased access to care, and reduced healthcare costs.
Think asynchronous telehealth is right for your VBC model? Be a champion. Identify stakeholders within your organization and start a conversation.
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