Trends and challenges of telehealth in an academic institution: The unforeseen benefits of the COVID-19 global pandemic

Christine E. Wamsley, Alan Kramer, Jeffrey M. Kenkel, Bardia Amirlak

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

16 Scopus citations

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic has necessitated a reorganization of healthcare delivery, shedding light on the many unrealized advantages telehealth has to offer. In addition to facilitating social distancing, minimizing the risk of pathogen exposure, and preserving healthcare resources, there are many benefits of utilizing this platform that can extend beyond the current pandemic, which will change the way healthcare is delivered for generations to come. With the rapid expansion of telehealth, we present data from our high-volume academic institution's telehealth efforts, with a more focused analysis of plastic surgery. Although state legislation regarding telehealth varies greatly, we discuss challenges such as legal issues, logistical constraints, privacy concerns, and billing. We also discuss various advantages and the future direction of telehealth not only for plastic surgery but also its general utilization for the future of medicine in the United States.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)109-118
Number of pages10
JournalAesthetic surgery journal
Volume41
Issue number1
DOIs
StatePublished - Jan 1 2021

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Surgery

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