“Telehealth” is a term that can mean many things to different people. By default, some may immediately think of video visits, given how they exploded onto the scene amid the COVID-19 pandemic. But telehealth—and perhaps more aptly described as “digital health”— has implications far beyond what we have seen before.
While traditional care models have returned at some levels, hospitals and healthcare systems continue to explore ways that integrate digital health into the everyday needs of their patients, as well as underserved populations.
“Digital care transcends walls, which is part of the beauty and the value,” said Albert Chan, M.D., chief of digital patient experience at Sutter Health, a not-for-profit healthcare system in Northern California that has taken a 360-degree view of digital health . “It’s really about creating an enhanced care experience — for the patient and the provider — where the settings are limitless.”
During Telehealth Awareness Week, we’re featuring innovative ways safe and convenient care is being provided to everyone when and where they need it.