Telehealth out of reach for patients without high-speed internet
Read Article: Modern Healthcare
Article Summary: A significant portion of rural America lacks both high-speed internet and adequate healthcare access, exacerbating health disparities and limiting the effectiveness of telehealth services. Despite federal investments in broadband expansion, gaps remain due to policy shifts, high infrastructure costs, and economic disparities. Healthcare leaders must consider strategies to overcome these barriers, ensuring that digital health initiatives are inclusive and effective.
The Risk:
Telehealth Compliance Challenges: Federal broadband funding changes may delay telehealth expansion, making it harder for healthcare organizations to comply with CMS and state virtual care mandates. (Area: Regulatory) (Category: Federal Regulations)
Financial Viability of Telehealth Investments: Poor internet access reduces patient engagement in virtual care, leading to lower reimbursement rates and financial losses for healthcare organizations investing in digital health. (Area: Finance) (Category: Reimbursement)