Healthcare communications technology involves the sharing of patient information and care via internet, intranet or telephone. The ability to transfer, share and manage patient medical records regardless of distance has enabled medical practices to improve quality of care as well as expedite it. Telehealth is an expanding health service that can offer safe and economical in-home patient care. Telehealth services often offer video conferencing as well, which can be extremely helpful with diagnostics. Health Information Exchange (HIE) is a secure way to access patient Electronic Health Records (EHRs) in order to provide care in an efficient and timely manner and to ensure a patients safety when visiting various medical providers. As well as benefiting patients, HIE systems can also help with measuring public health.
When deciding to facilitate any kind of Healthcare Communications Technology, security is important and the service should be compliant with HIPAA standards. Any service chosen should also implement “meaningful use” standards and offer guidance on how to use the service to the best of its ability.