Enhancing Physician Engagement through Telehealth: Insights from Dr. Kevin Post
Dr. Kevin Post, Chief Medical Officer at Avera Health in South Dakota, shared his insights on the critical connection between telehealth and physician engagement. With over 12 years of experience as a rural family physician, Dr. Post has seen firsthand how telehealth can bridge gaps in healthcare, particularly in remote areas.
He recalls a pivotal moment in his career when he used early telehealth technology to coordinate a complex obstetrical case, connecting with specialists miles away. This experience solidified his belief in the potential of telehealth to provide high-quality care, regardless of location.
Dr. Post’s chapter in the new physician engagement resource is a deep dive into telehealth’s role in modern healthcare. He emphasizes the importance of physician buy-in for successful telehealth implementation, noting that without it, efforts can fall short.
His chapter also introduces key terminology and standardizes concepts within virtual care, which he believes is crucial for the future of the field.
One standout point in the discussion was the concept of "portal visits," which Dr. Post advocates as a way to maintain ongoing communication with patients between in-person visits. This approach, he argues, can transform the traditionally episodic patient-caregiver relationship into a more continuous, supportive interaction.
Dr. Post also touched on the challenges of implementing telehealth at a systems level, emphasizing the need for clarity, proper training, and minimizing top-down directives. He sees the role of a facilitator as essential, acting as a bridge between the technology, the patient, and the physician.
As telehealth continues to evolve, Dr. Post's insights offer a roadmap for both current and future healthcare leaders, underscoring the need for engagement, education, and a patient-centered approach.
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