These subsequent six steps focus on operationalizing telehealth and the unique considerations relevant to successfully integrating virtual visits into practice. (The first six steps are foundational to the planning your implementation.)
Step 7: Designing the workflow
Telehealth appointments will likely require an adjusted workflow. Document that updated workflow to ensure a positive experience for your patients and the care team.
Related resources
- Key considerations when designing a telehealth workflow (PDF)
- Telehealth workflow example (PDF)
- Defining guidelines for appropriate telehealth use (PDF)
- Telehealth visit etiquette checklist (PDF)
Step 8: Preparing the staff
Thorough workflow and technical training lead to successful telehealth integration. Getting the rest of your team or practice up to speed on your telehealth vision, technology, and workflow is critical to a smooth rollout. Consider schedulers, physicians, physician assistants, nurse practitioners, and other members of the care team.
Related resource
Step 9: Patient partnership
Strategically engage patients to maximize the impact of telehealth. Virtual visits can only truly be successful when patients are empowered and prepared to use them.
Related resources
- Telehealth patient education flow (PDF)
- Telehealth patient introduction (PDF)
- Patient take-home prep sheet (PDF)
Step 10: Implementing
Launch your program and execute your plan. Put your new workflows to the test. Particularly with telehealth, you’ll focus your energy on scheduling appointments, supporting clinicians and patients as they start using the technology, and ensuring a path to payment. Ensure you collect feedback from staff and patients and iterate as necessary.
Step 11: Evaluating success
Determine your program’s success by revisiting your goals. Focusing on key success metrics, relevant data points you’ve collected will allow you to determine
whether you’ve achieved success.
Related resources
Step 12: Scaling
As you scale, focus on growing smart, not fast. Leverage your success metrics to position your program for expansion. Consider other areas telehealth can improve your practice.
The first six steps are foundational to planning your implementation.
