Jun 13, 2024
Embracing the Telehealth Revolution: A Must for Health Insurance Brokers
The healthcare landscape is always rapidly evolving, with telehealth emerging as a prominent trend reshaping the industry. As health insurance brokers, it's important to understand and embrace this revolution to better serve clients and navigate the changing market dynamics.
Many insurance companies now offer telehealth coverage as part of their health insurance plans. Telehealth services have become increasingly popular and widely accepted, especially due to advancements in technology and the need for convenient healthcare options, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. Coverage may vary depending on the insurance provider and the specific plan, and according to state mandates, so brokers need to educate themselves about telehealth services benefits, and include these options in plan recommendations to their clients.
Current Trends in Telehealth – keeping you up to speed
Telehealth has seen a surge in adoption, accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite the initial spike subsiding, usage remains higher than before the pandemic, with key areas such as mental health and less urgent care leading the way. Moreover, tech giants are exploiting their capabilities to enhance telehealth access and delivery. Consumers have gotten more comfortable, and providers have expanded their offerings to meet this increasing demand.
The Impact on Quality and Cost
Research indicates that telehealth usage correlates with modest increases in outpatient visits but a decrease in non-COVID emergency department visits. However, per-patient spending has increased, driven by factors such as inpatient admissions and pharmaceutical costs. Nonetheless, telehealth has shown potential in improving patient adherence to medications, and to behavioral changes that need support.
Why Health Insurance Brokers Should Care
Health insurance brokers play a vital role in navigating these shifts and providing informed guidance and benefits to clients. By embracing telehealth trends, brokers can tailor insurance plans to accommodate virtual care services, enhancing value for clients, improving wellness in workers, and aligning with insurers' interests in promoting preventative care and cost containment.
Exploring the Promise of Telepsychiatry and Teletherapy
Virtual mental healthcare delivery has become a necessity, especially amid rising mental health issues and a shortage of trained professionals. Research underscores the effectiveness of telepsychiatry and teletherapy, particularly when combined with medication management. However, equitable access remains a concern, highlighting the need for hybrid care models. For instance, some underserved areas have less access to high-speed internet for video calls – especially in rural areas where there is also less access to in-person visits.
Empowering Informed Decisions
Insurance brokers can empower clients by emphasizing the importance of assessing the severity of mental health conditions, staying informed about telehealth advancements, and adopting a client-centered approach to care. By doing so, brokers contribute to happier customers and improved mental health outcomes.
Hidden Gems: Telehealth Enhances Home-based Palliative Care
Telehealth plays a crucial role in providing access to home-based palliative care, especially during crises like the COVID-19 pandemic. Brokers can highlight the value of home-based palliative care in coverage options, emphasizing its role in improving patient outcomes and aligning treatment with goals of care. Offering this type of benefit demonstrates a compassionate approach to supporting workers throughout all life stages.
Telehealth vs. In-person: How Follow-up Visit Rates Compare
Research shows that follow-up rates after telehealth appointments are slightly more likely compared to in-person visits, with certain specialties exhibiting variations. A higher follow-up rate indicates better continuity of care, early detection of health issues, and increased patient engagement. This implies that easier to access telehealth care extends to follow up visits, which encourages patients to more easily comply with medication and behavioral changes required for improved health.
Stay informed
The rise of telehealth represents a paradigm shift in healthcare delivery, with profound implications for insurers, providers, and patients. Telehealth coverage is not explicitly mandated by the Affordable Care Act (ACA) itself. However, the ACA does encourage the use of telehealth services as a means to improve access to healthcare, particularly in underserved areas. Additionally, some states have passed laws mandating coverage of telehealth services by private insurance companies. The specifics of telehealth coverage, including what services are covered and to what extent, can vary by state and insurance plan. While the ACA doesn't require telehealth coverage, it has spurred the adoption and expansion of telehealth services as part of efforts to increase healthcare accessibility and affordability.
Health insurance brokers who recognize telehealth as a pivotal trend shaping the future of healthcare show their leadership and can adapt their strategies accordingly. By embracing telehealth, and making sure they recommend adequate benefits, brokers position themselves as trusted advisors, contributing to a more efficient, accessible, and patient-centric healthcare system.
