The rapid integration of telehealth services during the COVID-19 pandemic has transformed the landscape of pediatric allied health. Clinicians now face complex decision-making processes regarding the suitability of telehealth for their clients. The research article "Clinicians’ Decision-Making Regarding Telehealth Services: Focus Group Study in Pediatric Allied Health" provides valuable insights into these decision-making processes. This blog will explore key findings from the study and offer practical recommendations for practitioners aiming to improve their telehealth services.
Key Factors Influencing Telehealth Decision-Making
The study identified four broad categories of factors that clinicians consider when deciding whether to recommend telehealth:
- Technology: The availability and functionality of technology at both the client’s and clinician’s end are crucial. For instance, speech-language pathology sessions typically require a laptop or full-sized tablet, while counseling services may only need a phone.
- Clients and Families: Factors such as the client’s age, attention span, socioeconomic background, and potential barriers to in-person attendance play a significant role. For example, telehealth may be more suitable for school-aged children in speech-language pathology than for younger children.
- Clinical Services: The type of clinical need, presence of additional diagnoses, and whether the session is an assessment or therapy session are considered. For instance, telehealth is often recommended for stuttering and early language interventions but not for comprehensive initial assessments.
- Clinician-Related Aspects: Clinician confidence, motivation, and access to "telehealth champions" significantly impact the decision to recommend telehealth. Clinicians with more experience and support in telehealth are more likely to recommend it to their clients.
Perceptions of Telehealth Utility Beyond COVID-19
Clinicians' perceptions of telehealth utility beyond the pandemic were categorized into three themes:
- Flexible Telehealth Use: Clinicians used telehealth flexibly, combining it with in-person sessions when appropriate. This hybrid approach allows for greater adaptability based on the client’s needs and circumstances.
- Telehealth Can be Superior to In-Person Therapy: In some cases, telehealth enabled better care, such as observing clients in their home environment or including both parents in counseling sessions. Reimagining and adapting clinical roles for telehealth can lead to more effective interventions.
- Fear That In-Person Services May be Replaced: Despite recognizing the benefits of telehealth, clinicians expressed concerns that it might fully replace in-person services. They emphasized the irreplaceable elements of in-person interactions, such as observing body language and conducting hands-on activities.
Recommendations for Practitioners
Based on the study's findings, here are some recommendations for practitioners looking to improve their telehealth services:
- Assess Technology Readiness: Ensure that both clients and clinicians have the necessary technology and confidence to use it effectively. This includes appropriate hardware, internet data plans, and telehealth-ready workspaces.
- Consider Client and Family Factors: Evaluate the suitability of telehealth based on the client’s age, attention span, and family circumstances. Telehealth may be more appropriate for certain age groups and clinical needs.
- Utilize Telehealth Champions: Leverage the experience and enthusiasm of telehealth champions within your team to support and motivate other clinicians.
- Adopt a Hybrid Approach: Use telehealth flexibly, combining it with in-person sessions when appropriate. This approach allows for greater adaptability and better client outcomes.
- Stay Informed and Adapt: Continuously update your knowledge and skills in telehealth. Stay informed about the latest research and best practices to ensure high-quality care.
For a more in-depth understanding of the factors influencing telehealth decision-making and clinicians' perceptions, I encourage you to read the original research paper. Please follow this link: Clinicians’ Decision-Making Regarding Telehealth Services: Focus Group Study in Pediatric Allied Health.
