Using Telehealth as a Tool for Rural Hospitals in the COVID-19 Pandemic Response

This article summarizes the lessons learned from implementing telehealth in rural environments over the past 3 years and how to expand these efforts in the context of COVID-19. The needs of elderly populations in rural environments are also addressed. It provides 5 strategies for implementing telehealth in this context: (1) Preparation and Training; 2) Standardize and Expedite Credentialing; (3) Technology; (4) Broadband; and (5) Feedback and Rapid Improvement.

Resource Details

• Population: People Living in Rural Areas
• Geographic Areas of Implementation: Rural
• Setting/Context of Implementation: Clinical|Community
• Topics of Practice: Organizational Change/ Development|Outreach/ Education/ Communications
• Outcomes of Interest: Reduction of Health Disparities
• Level of Evidence: Emerging
• Tools or Materials Included in Resource: No
• Social Determinants of Health: Healthcare Access and Quality
• Outside of US: No