Managing Telehealth Programs and Services
Expert-defined terms from the Professional Certificate in Telehealth and Telecare course at London School of International Business. Free to read, free to share, paired with a globally recognised certification pathway.
Managing Telehealth Programs and Services Glossary #
Managing Telehealth Programs and Services Glossary
1. Accreditation #
Accreditation refers to the process by which an organization is recognized for meeting specific standards of quality and competence. In the context of telehealth programs and services, accreditation ensures that the services provided adhere to best practices and guidelines set forth by regulatory bodies.
2. Business Model #
A business model is a framework for creating value and generating revenue within an organization. In telehealth, a business model may include revenue streams such as fee-for-service, subscription-based models, or value-based care reimbursement.
3. Compliance #
Compliance refers to the adherence to laws, regulations, guidelines, and standards set forth by governing bodies. Telehealth programs must ensure compliance with regulations such as HIPAA to protect patient privacy and data security.
4. Continuity of Care #
Continuity of care refers to the seamless delivery of healthcare services to patients across different settings and providers. Telehealth programs aim to maintain continuity of care by enabling communication and collaboration between healthcare professionals.
5. Electronic Health Record (EHR) #
An Electronic Health Record is a digital version of a patient's paper chart that contains their medical history, diagnoses, medications, treatment plans, immunization dates, allergies, radiology images, and laboratory test results. EHRs facilitate the sharing of patient information among healthcare providers.
6. Health Information Exchange (HIE) #
Health Information Exchange is the electronic sharing of patient health information between healthcare organizations. HIEs enable the secure exchange of patient data to improve care coordination and decision-making.
7. Interoperability #
Interoperability refers to the ability of different information systems, devices, or applications to connect, communicate, and exchange data in a coordinated manner. In telehealth, interoperability ensures that systems can seamlessly share patient information for improved care delivery.
8. Remote Monitoring #
Remote monitoring involves the use of technology to collect patient data outside of traditional healthcare settings. Examples include wearable devices that track vital signs or mobile apps that enable patients to input their symptoms for remote review by healthcare providers.
9. Reimbursement #
Reimbursement refers to the compensation received by healthcare providers for services rendered to patients. Telehealth reimbursement models vary by region and may include payment for virtual consultations, remote monitoring, or telehealth visits.
10. Telehealth #
Telehealth is the use of digital information and communication technologies, such as computers and mobile devices, to access healthcare services remotely and manage one's health. Telehealth encompasses a broad range of services, including virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and telemedicine.
11. Telemedicine #
Telemedicine refers specifically to the practice of delivering healthcare services remotely using telecommunications technology. Telemedicine often involves real-time interactions between patients and healthcare providers, such as video consultations or virtual visits.
12. Telehealth Platform #
A telehealth platform is a digital infrastructure that enables the delivery of telehealth services. These platforms may include features such as video conferencing, secure messaging, appointment scheduling, and electronic health record integration.
13. Telehealth Program Manager #
A telehealth program manager is responsible for overseeing the planning, implementation, and evaluation of telehealth programs and services within an organization. Program managers ensure that telehealth initiatives align with organizational goals and regulatory requirements.
14. Telehealth Technology #
Telehealth technology refers to the hardware, software, and communication tools used to deliver telehealth services. Examples of telehealth technology include video conferencing software, remote monitoring devices, and mobile health applications.
15. Virtual Care #
Virtual care encompasses a wide range of healthcare services delivered remotely through telehealth technology. Virtual care includes virtual consultations, remote monitoring, digital health coaching, and online health education.
16. Workflow Integration #
Workflow integration involves the seamless incorporation of telehealth services into existing healthcare workflows. Successful integration ensures that telehealth tools enhance rather than disrupt clinical processes and patient care delivery.
17. Quality Improvement #
Quality improvement refers to the systematic approach to enhancing the quality of healthcare services and outcomes. Telehealth programs may implement quality improvement initiatives to monitor performance, identify areas for enhancement, and implement changes to improve patient care.
18. Patient Engagement #
Patient engagement involves empowering patients to actively participate in their healthcare by providing them with information, resources, and support. Telehealth programs can enhance patient engagement through tools such as patient portals, remote monitoring devices, and health education materials.
19. Population Health Management #
Population health management involves the management of health outcomes for a group of individuals, focusing on preventive care, chronic disease management, and health promotion. Telehealth programs can support population health management by enabling remote monitoring and virtual care delivery.
20. Telehealth Ethics #
Telehealth ethics encompass the moral principles and guidelines that govern the use of telehealth technology and services. Ethical considerations in telehealth include patient privacy, data security, informed consent, and equitable access to care.
21. Telehealth Regulatory Landscape #
The telehealth regulatory landscape refers to the laws, regulations, and policies that govern the practice of telehealth. Regulatory requirements vary by jurisdiction and may impact telehealth reimbursement, licensure, privacy, and security.
22. Telehealth Security #
Telehealth security involves the measures taken to protect patient information, data, and communication channels from unauthorized access, breaches, and cyber threats. Security protocols in telehealth programs help safeguard patient privacy and ensure data integrity.
23. Telehealth Training and Education #
Telehealth training and education involve preparing healthcare providers, staff, and patients to effectively utilize telehealth technology and services. Training may include technical skills development, clinical best practices, and patient engagement strategies.
24. Telehealth Outcomes Measurement #
Telehealth outcomes measurement involves assessing the impact of telehealth services on patient health, satisfaction, and healthcare delivery. Outcome measures may include clinical outcomes, patient experience metrics, and cost-effectiveness analyses.
25. Telehealth Strategic Planning #
Telehealth strategic planning involves setting goals, defining objectives, and outlining strategies to guide the implementation and growth of telehealth programs. Strategic planning ensures that telehealth initiatives align with organizational priorities and address healthcare needs effectively.
26. Telehealth Sustainability #
Telehealth sustainability refers to the long-term viability and success of telehealth programs and services. Sustainable telehealth initiatives consider factors such as financial stability, stakeholder engagement, scalability, and adaptability to changing healthcare landscapes.
27. Telehealth Adoption #
Telehealth adoption refers to the uptake and utilization of telehealth technology and services by healthcare providers, organizations, and patients. Factors influencing telehealth adoption include technology acceptance, organizational readiness, regulatory support, and reimbursement incentives.
28. Telehealth Interprofessional Collaboration #
Telehealth interprofessional collaboration involves the coordinated efforts of healthcare professionals from different disciplines to deliver comprehensive care to patients through telehealth services. Interprofessional collaboration enhances care coordination, communication, and patient outcomes.
29. Telehealth Data Analytics #
Telehealth data analytics involves the collection, analysis, and interpretation of data generated by telehealth programs to inform decision-making, improve performance, and optimize patient care. Data analytics can help identify trends, outcomes, and areas for quality improvement.
30. Telehealth Remote Consultation #
Telehealth remote consultation involves the provision of medical advice, diagnosis, and treatment recommendations to patients through virtual communication channels, such as video conferencing or telephony. Remote consultations enable access to healthcare services without the need for in-person visits.
31. Telehealth Clinical Guidelines #
Telehealth clinical guidelines are evidence-based recommendations and protocols that guide the delivery of telehealth services, ensuring safe, effective, and high-quality care. Clinical guidelines address best practices, standards of care, and treatment algorithms for telehealth consultations and interventions.
32. Telehealth Patient Monitoring #
Telehealth patient monitoring involves the continuous tracking of patient health data, such as vital signs, symptoms, and medication adherence, through remote monitoring devices or mobile applications. Patient monitoring enables healthcare providers to intervene proactively and adjust treatment plans as needed.
33. Telehealth Mobile Health (mHealth) #
Telehealth mobile health, or mHealth, refers to the use of mobile devices, such as smartphones and tablets, to deliver healthcare services and support patient engagement remotely. mHealth applications can facilitate communication, monitoring, education, and self-management for patients and providers.
34. Telehealth Telepsychiatry #
Telehealth telepsychiatry involves the delivery of psychiatric services, such as evaluations, therapy, and medication management, through telecommunication technology. Telepsychiatry enables patients to access mental health care remotely, overcoming barriers such as distance, stigma, and provider shortages.
35. Telehealth Store #
and-Forward: Telehealth store-and-forward involves the transmission of patient health information, such as images, videos, and clinical data, to healthcare providers for review and consultation at a later time. Store-and-forward technology enables asynchronous communication and consultation in telehealth settings.
36. Telehealth Triage #
Telehealth triage involves the assessment, prioritization, and referral of patients to appropriate levels of care through remote communication channels, such as telephony or video conferencing. Telehealth triage helps streamline access to care, reduce unnecessary emergency department visits, and improve patient outcomes.
37. Telehealth Remote Patient Monitoring #
Telehealth remote patient monitoring involves the continuous collection and transmission of patient health data from home or other non-clinical settings to healthcare providers for real-time review and intervention. Remote patient monitoring enables proactive management of chronic conditions, early detection of health changes, and personalized care delivery.
38. Telehealth Chronic Care Management #
Telehealth chronic care management involves the provision of ongoing, coordinated care to patients with chronic conditions through remote monitoring, virtual consultations, and care coordination services. Telehealth supports chronic care management by enhancing patient engagement, self-management skills, and access to specialized care.
39. Telehealth Pediatric Care #
Telehealth pediatric care involves the delivery of healthcare services to children and adolescents through telecommunication technology, addressing a wide range of medical, developmental, and behavioral health needs. Telehealth pediatric care enables remote consultations, follow-up visits, specialist referrals, and parental support for managing children's health.
40. Telehealth Geriatric Care #
Telehealth geriatric care involves the provision of healthcare services to older adults through telecommunication technology, addressing age-related health issues, chronic conditions, and functional impairments. Telehealth geriatric care supports aging in place, care coordination, medication management, and caregiver support for older adults living independently or in long-term care settings.
41. Telehealth Mental Health Services #
Telehealth mental health services involve the delivery of psychiatric and psychological care to individuals with mental health conditions through telecommunication technology. Telehealth mental health services include assessments, therapy sessions, medication management, crisis interventions, and support groups for individuals with depression, anxiety, PTSD, and other mental health disorders.
42. Telehealth Behavioral Health Services #
Telehealth behavioral health services involve the provision of counseling, therapy, and support services for individuals with behavioral health conditions, such as substance use disorders, eating disorders, and stress-related conditions. Telehealth behavioral health services address mental health and emotional well-being through remote consultations, virtual interventions, and self-care resources for individuals seeking behavioral health support.
43. Telehealth Occupational Therapy #
Telehealth occupational therapy involves the delivery of rehabilitative services to individuals with physical, cognitive, or developmental challenges through telecommunication technology. Telehealth occupational therapy supports functional independence, adaptive skills, assistive technology training, and environmental modifications for individuals with disabilities or chronic conditions seeking to improve their quality of life and participation in daily activities.
44. Telehealth Speech Therapy #
Telehealth speech therapy involves the provision of speech, language, and communication services to individuals with speech disorders, swallowing difficulties, or cognitive impairments through telecommunication technology. Telehealth speech therapy supports assessment, diagnosis, intervention, and follow-up care for individuals with communication challenges, such as speech delays, articulation disorders, voice disorders, and aphasia, seeking to improve their communication skills and quality of life.
45. Telehealth Physical Therapy #
Telehealth physical therapy involves the delivery of rehabilitation services to individuals with musculoskeletal, neurological, or mobility impairments through telecommunication technology. Telehealth physical therapy supports pain management, functional mobility, exercise programs, and home safety assessments for individuals recovering from injuries, surgeries, or chronic conditions seeking to improve their physical function and quality of life.
46. Telehealth Nutrition Counseling #
Telehealth nutrition counseling involves the provision of dietary assessments, meal planning, and nutritional guidance to individuals seeking to improve their diet, manage chronic conditions, or achieve health goals through telecommunication technology. Telehealth nutrition counseling supports healthy eating habits, weight management, chronic disease prevention, and lifestyle changes for individuals looking to optimize their nutrition and overall well-being.
47. Telehealth Diabetes Management #
Telehealth diabetes management involves the remote monitoring, education, and support services for individuals with diabetes seeking to manage their blood glucose levels, prevent complications, and improve their quality of life through telecommunication technology. Telehealth diabetes management supports self-monitoring, medication adherence, lifestyle modifications, and care coordination for individuals with diabetes looking to achieve optimal health outcomes and reduce the burden of their condition.
48. Telehealth Cardiac Rehabilitation #
Telehealth cardiac rehabilitation involves the delivery of exercise programs, lifestyle counseling, and emotional support services to individuals recovering from heart conditions, such as heart attacks, heart failure, or cardiac surgeries, through telecommunication technology. Telehealth cardiac rehabilitation supports cardiovascular health, physical fitness, risk factor reduction, and psychosocial well-being for individuals with heart disease seeking to improve their cardiac function and overall quality of life.
49. Telehealth Pulmonary Rehabilitation #
Telehealth pulmonary rehabilitation involves the provision of exercise training, breathing techniques, and symptom management strategies to individuals with chronic respiratory conditions, such as COPD, asthma, or pulmonary fibrosis, through telecommunication technology. Telehealth pulmonary rehabilitation supports respiratory function, exercise tolerance, self-care skills, and emotional coping for individuals with lung disease seeking to enhance their pulmonary health and functional capacity.
50. Telehealth Remote Wound Care #
Telehealth remote wound care involves the assessment, treatment, and monitoring of acute or chronic wounds through telecommunication technology, enabling individuals to receive wound care services remotely. Telehealth remote wound care supports wound healing, infection prevention, dressing changes, and self-care education for individuals with wounds seeking to optimize their wound healing process and prevent complications.
51. Telehealth Teledermatology #
Telehealth teledermatology involves the remote evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment of skin conditions through telecommunication technology, enabling individuals to receive dermatology services from dermatologists or healthcare providers specializing in skin care remotely. Telehealth teledermatology supports skin health, lesion assessment, treatment recommendations, and follow-up care for individuals with skin conditions seeking dermatological expertise and management of their skin health.
52. Telehealth Teleophthalmology #
Telehealth teleophthalmology involves the remote evaluation, screening, and monitoring of eye conditions through telecommunication technology, enabling individuals to receive ophthalmology services from ophthalmologists or eye care specialists remotely. Telehealth teleophthalmology supports eye health, vision assessment, diagnostic testing, and treatment recommendations for individuals with eye conditions seeking ophthalmic care and management of their visual health.
53. Telehealth Teleaudiology #
Telehealth teleaudiology involves the remote assessment, diagnosis, and management of hearing and balance disorders through telecommunication technology, enabling individuals to receive audiology services from audiologists or hearing care professionals remotely. Telehealth teleaudiology supports hearing health, auditory testing, hearing aid fitting, and rehabilitation services for individuals with hearing loss seeking audiological care and management of their hearing health.
54. Telehealth Telerehabilitation #
Telehealth telerehabilitation involves the delivery of rehabilitation services, such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, or mental health counseling, through telecommunication technology, enabling individuals to receive rehabilitation services remotely. Telehealth telerehabilitation supports functional recovery, mobility training, communication skills, and psychosocial support for individuals undergoing rehabilitation seeking to improve their physical, cognitive, or emotional well-being.
55. Telehealth Home Health Care #
Telehealth home health care involves the provision of medical, nursing, therapy, and support services to individuals in their homes through telecommunication technology, enabling individuals to receive home health services remotely. Telehealth home health care supports aging in place, chronic disease management, post-acute care, and caregiver support for individuals seeking to maintain their independence, health, and quality of life at home.
56. Telehealth Remote Monitoring Technology #
Telehealth remote monitoring technology encompasses a wide range of devices, sensors, wearables, and applications used to collect and transmit patient health data from home or other non-clinical settings to healthcare providers for real-time review and intervention. Remote monitoring technology includes blood pressure monitors, glucose meters, pulse oximeters, activity trackers, weight scales, and medication reminders for individuals seeking to manage their health conditions and communicate with their healthcare providers remotely.
57. Telehealth Virtual Visits #
Telehealth virtual visits involve the delivery of medical consultations, follow-up appointments, or counseling sessions through telecommunication technology, enabling individuals to receive healthcare services remotely without the need for in-person visits. Telehealth virtual visits support access to care, convenience, privacy, and continuity of care for individuals seeking medical advice, treatment recommendations, or emotional support from healthcare providers using telehealth technology.
58. Telehealth Telemonitoring Services #
Telehealth telemonitoring services involve the remote monitoring, assessment, and management of patient health data, such as vital signs, symptoms, and medication adherence, through telecommunication technology, enabling individuals to receive personalized care and support remotely. Telehealth telemonitoring services support chronic disease management, preventive care, early detection of health changes, and self-management skills for individuals seeking to improve their health outcomes and quality of life through telehealth technology.
59. Telehealth Teleconsultation #
Telehealth teleconsultation involves the provision of expert advice, second opinions, or treatment recommendations through telecommunication technology, enabling individuals to consult with healthcare specialists remotely. Telehealth teleconsultation supports access to specialized care, diagnostic clarification, treatment planning, and patient education for individuals seeking expert medical advice and guidance from healthcare providers using telehealth technology.
60. Telehealth Teletherapy #
Telehealth teletherapy involves the delivery of psychological counseling, psychotherapy, or mental health support services through telecommunication technology, enabling individuals to receive therapy sessions remotely. Telehealth teletherapy supports emotional well-being, stress management, coping skills, and mental health treatment for individuals seeking mental health support and counseling from licensed therapists or counselors using telehealth technology.
61. Telehealth Telemedicine Services #
Telehealth telemedicine services encompass a wide range of healthcare services delivered remotely through telecommunication technology, such as video conferencing, secure messaging, or mobile applications. Telehealth tele