Maria Perez
Maria is an experienced writer, providing content for Healthcare Industry News since 2021. Working as a senior writer, Maria focuses on news reporting, making the complex healthcare topic comprehensible for readers. Maria’s expertise and dedication to delivering accurate stories make him a trusted source on our site.
by Maria Perez | Mar 13, 2024 | Telehealth News
The United States Congress is taking steps toward improving telehealth flexibilities for Medicare beneficiaries with the introduction of the Telehealth Modernization Act of 2024. Led by bipartisan representatives including Earl L. Carter (R-GA), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DE), Greg Steube (R-FL), Terri Sewell (D-AL), Mariannette Miller-Meeks (R-IA), Jefferson Van Drew (R-NJ), and Joe Morelle (D-NY), this legislation aims to extend important telehealth provisions permanently. One of the key provisions of the bill is the permanent elimination of geographic restrictions on originating sites for telehealth services. This means that patients, particularly those in rural areas, will have continued access to telehealth services regardless of their physical location. The bill also seeks to allow rural health clinics and federally qualified health centers to receive Medicare reimbursement for telehealth services, ensuring financial sustainability for these important healthcare facilities.
Another key aspect of the Telehealth Modernization Act is the inclusion of audio-only telehealth coverage within the Medicare program on a permanent basis. This is particularly necessary for seniors and individuals in rural areas who may not have access to reliable internet connectivity but still require important healthcare services. By allowing audio-only telehealth consultations, the bill ensures that these vulnerable populations are not left behind in accessing quality care. The legislation aims to expand the use of telehealth for hospice care and home dialysis assessments, provided they are clinically appropriate. This demonstrates a commitment to leveraging telehealth technologies to improve access to specialized care and monitoring for patients in need, even in the comfort of their homes.
The Telehealth Modernization Act of 2024 has gained support from various healthcare stakeholders and trade organizations. Entities such as the American Hospital Association (AHA), American Telemedicine Association (ATA) Action, and American Medical Association (AMA) have voiced their support for the bill, emphasizing the importance of ensuring continued access to virtual care for patients across the nation. The urgency to pass permanent telehealth legislation stems from the impending expiration of temporary regulatory flexibilities enacted during the COVID-19 pandemic, scheduled to end on December 31, 2024. Healthcare stakeholders are calling on Congress to act swiftly to prevent a potential ‘telehealth cliff’ that could disrupt access to necessary virtual care services for millions of Medicare beneficiaries.
In response to mounting pressure, lawmakers are actively engaging with the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to prioritize telehealth initiatives. Senators and representatives have urged HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra to collaborate with Congress and stakeholders to maintain expanded access to telehealth, emphasizing the need for timely technical assistance and data sharing to address implementation challenges. The introduction of the Telehealth Modernization Act of 2024 reflects a bipartisan effort to address the evolving healthcare landscape and ensure that telehealth remains a priority in the healthcare industry. By extending important telehealth flexibilities, Congress aims to enhance access to care, particularly for underserved populations, and promote the delivery of high-quality, patient-centered healthcare services across the nation.
by Maria Perez | Mar 12, 2024 | Artificial Intelligence
Mayo Clinic has launched an initiative aimed at revolutionizing the provision of digital health solutions. Known as the Solutions Studio program, the venture is led by Mayo Clinic Platform, the company’s arm dedicated to data science and technology adoption in healthcare. The primary objective of Solutions Studio is to expedite the development, validation, and integration of digital health innovations into clinical workflows, ultimately enhancing patient outcomes while streamlining operational efficiencies and reducing the overall cost of care. One of the standout features of the Solutions Studio program is its provision of access to a range of global, federated de-identified data. This extensive dataset serves as an important resource for digital health companies, facilitating the refinement and improvement of their models through rigorous testing and training. Solutions Studio offers a library of tools equipped with advanced analytics and federated training capabilities, allowing developers to optimize their solutions for real-world application within healthcare settings.
An important aspect of Solutions Studio is its strict qualification process, designed to evaluate digital health solutions thoroughly. This process ensures that solutions meet the highest standards of fairness, appropriateness, validity, and effectiveness. By undergoing this qualification process, digital health companies can establish credibility and trust, important factors in gaining acceptance and adoption within the healthcare industry. The program also addresses the challenges faced by digital health companies in managing the complexities of healthcare delivery. Through standardized contracting processes and marketing opportunities, Solutions Studio simplifies the integration of digital health tools into clinical workflows, facilitating seamless implementation across diverse healthcare settings. Participating companies also gain access to Mayo Clinic’s extensive network of Care Network member hospitals, providing opportunities for collaboration and deployment.
Mayo Clinic’s commitment to responsible AI development is evident in its collaboration with the Coalition for Health AI and the integration of guiding principles into the Solutions Studio program. With the rapid advancement of AI technologies in healthcare, there’s a growing need for frameworks to ensure the ethical and responsible deployment of these innovations. By partnering with the Coalition for Health AI, Mayo Clinic demonstrates its commitment to upholding industry-wide standards and best practices in AI development and utilization. The integration of guiding principles into the Solutions Studio program outlines Mayo Clinic’s proactive approach to addressing the ethical considerations surrounding AI in healthcare. These principles involve various aspects of AI development and deployment, including transparency, fairness, accountability, and patient safety. By adhering to these principles, Mayo Clinic aims to build trust and confidence among healthcare providers, patients, and other stakeholders in the use of AI technologies.
Mayo Clinic’s Solutions Studio program is a positive advancement in the field of digital health innovation. By offering a large suite of resources, expertise, and support, Mayo Clinic is poised to accelerate the development and deployment of cutting-edge solutions that have the potential to transform healthcare delivery on a global scale. Through collaboration with digital health companies and healthcare providers, Mayo Clinic continues to lead the way in driving innovation and improving patient care outcomes.
by Maria Perez | Mar 11, 2024 | Healthcare Industry News
The Ernst & Young LLP (EY US) as issued their Health Pulse Survey, featuring responses from over 100 payer and provider healthcare executives in the United States, provides valuable insights into their strategic choices, highlighting the industry’s ongoing adaptation to digital health solutions and the consequential impacts on finance as executives make considerable investments in these technologies to capitalize on transformative opportunities within modern healthcare. The survey highlights an increase in interest and investments in digital health solutions as the healthcare industry hits the four-year mark since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic. The potential benefits include addressing nursing shortages, streamlining patient care processes, minimizing in-person costs, and supporting more collaborative interactions with insurance providers.
The survey reveals that 9 out of 10 healthcare executives have experienced increased efficiency since embracing digital health solutions. Shifting administrative responsibilities to digital systems has provided healthcare providers with more time to focus on patient care, ultimately reducing nursing bottlenecks and cutting down patient care costs. Dr. Kaushik Bhaumik, EY US Health Technology Leader, emphasizes that the implementation of digital health systems has positively impacted operational efficiency, “Health care as we know it is on the precipice of a revolution as more hospitals and health providers adopt digital health systems,” says Dr. Kaushik Bhaumik, EY US Health Technology Leader. “According to the Health Pulse Survey results, health executives have seen firsthand that implementing digital health care systems had a positive effect on operational efficiency, allowing medical professionals to focus on treating patients rather than administrative tasks, alleviating nursing shortage bottlenecks, and in turn, reducing the costs of patient care.”
This transition allows medical professionals to redirect their focus from administrative tasks to patient treatment, contributing to a more streamlined and cost-effective healthcare environment. Artificial Intelligence (AI) is identified as a driver of change in healthcare, with 60% of executives actively investing in AI-based applications. The majority (96%) experienced a large reduction in wasted time and financial costs through AI integration. Also, 93% acknowledge emerging technologies as assets for providers, supporting tech-driven administrative efficiencies.
While the majority of healthcare executives invest in digital health solutions, realizing a return on investment (ROI) presents challenges. The survey reveals that 86% of respondents recognize the potential for cost reduction through digital health solutions, but seven in 10 have yet to witness any tangible ROI. Executives attribute this constraint to isolated tracking metrics, making it challenging to effectively monitor the initial cost value of technology implementation in healthcare practices. There is a growing demand for experts in technology in digital healthcare as the industry continues to adopt technologies. 94% of healthcare executives agree that newer technologies enhance healthcare providers’ credibility. To meet this demand, 90% of executives are increasing investments in staffing their digital healthcare tech teams.
Mallory Caldwell, EY Americas Health Leader, anticipates a continued rise in the adoption of digital health solutions. “The efficiencies created through automation and AI have had positive impacts on both the provider and patient experiences, and it is only a matter of time until the ROI is realized,” added Mallory Caldwell, EY Americas Health Leader. The EY Health Pulse Survey highlights the difficult balance healthcare executives must manage as they invest in digital health technologies, aiming to leverage transformative benefits while grappling with the complexities of realizing a tangible return on investment.
by Maria Perez | Mar 7, 2024 | Digital Health
Wheel has made progress in improving its Integrated Virtual Care system by welcoming three companies into its operations: Talkspace, Mark Cuban Cost Plus Drug Company (Cost Plus Drugs), and Health Gorilla. These additions will help to expand Wheel’s capabilities, enabling its customers to seamlessly connect patients with important healthcare services, including mental health support, transparent pharmacy options, and streamlined diagnostic services. The Integrated Virtual Care system by Wheel combines top-tier technologies, care networks, and solutions to facilitate the establishment of virtual care at scale for its customers. By integrating Talkspace, Cost Plus Drugs, and Health Gorilla into its platform, Wheel extends its reach and offers convenience and accessibility to patients while meeting the evolving demands of healthcare consumers.
Consumers increasingly prioritize convenience when accessing healthcare services, and Wheel’s system addresses this by providing a centralized destination for patients to access a range of integrated services. An independent study commissioned by Wheel outlines the willingness of patients to pay more for virtual care that is convenient and streamlined, further highlighting the importance of such integrated solutions in modern healthcare delivery. The study reflects the evolving preferences of healthcare consumers, indicating a strong demand for virtual care options that offer flexibility and ease of access.
The partnership between Talkspace and Wheel shows an effort to bridge the gap in mental health services, particularly in areas with limited access to therapists and psychiatric providers. With over 160 million Americans living in regions with insufficient mental health professional resources, the collaboration aims to leverage Talkspace’s network of licensed providers to expand capacity and ensure swift access to care. The integration of Cost Plus Drugs into the Wheel platform addresses concerns surrounding prescription drug affordability, a pressing issue for many patients. By transparently charging a standard markup on prescription drugs, Cost Plus Drugs aligns with Wheel’s commitment to providing affordable and accessible healthcare solutions. Health Gorilla’s inclusion streamlines diagnostic services, empowering patients and healthcare providers with actionable clinical data for effective virtual care delivery. These partnerships outline Wheel’s dedication to meeting the diverse needs of healthcare consumers while driving innovation and efficiency in virtual care delivery.
In addition to expanding access to mental health services, pharmacy options, and diagnostic services, the integration of Talkspace, Cost Plus Drugs, and Health Gorilla into Wheel’s platform has broader implications for the future of virtual care. These partnerships signify a shift towards a more in-depth approach to healthcare delivery, where patients can receive care seamlessly and conveniently. By offering a single destination for a wide range of healthcare needs, Wheel allows patients to take control of their health and well-being while minimizing barriers to access. This approach enhances patient satisfaction and holds the potential to reduce healthcare costs by optimizing care delivery and preventing unnecessary hospitalizations or emergency room visits.
Michelle Davey, CEO of Wheel, emphasized the importance of collaboration, innovation, and patient access to care in shaping the future of healthcare. The strategic partnerships with Talkspace, Cost Plus Drugs, and Health Gorilla show Wheel’s commitment to offering patients a range of choices and ensuring superior care experiences for providers. Through these collaborations, Wheel aims to equip healthcare providers with the necessary tools to deliver high-quality care, streamline operations, and drive better outcomes. As Wheel continues to evaluate additional platform solutions, it continues with its goal of revolutionizing healthcare delivery and enhancing the accessibility and affordability of virtual care for all patients.
by Maria Perez | Mar 5, 2024 | Digital Health
Memorial Hermann Health System has formed a partnership with Charlie Health, a virtual mental health care provider, to address the pressing issue of mental health treatment access for teenagers and young adults. Dr. Victoria Regan, Vice President of Women’s and Children’s Service Line at Memorial Hermann, emphasized the urgency of this collaboration, noting the national mental health crisis affecting all age groups, but particularly adolescents, a trend aggravated by the COVID-19 pandemic. One of the challenges faced by high-acuity mental health patients, according to Dr. Regan, is the prolonged waitlists for outpatient treatment programs due to surging demand and limited resources. To tackle this issue, Memorial Hermann is partnering with Charlie Health, which specializes in virtual high-acuity mental health care tailored to teens and young adults. The collaboration aims to eliminate barriers to mental health care by providing timely access to virtual treatment solutions.
Charlie Health’s evidence-based virtual intensive outpatient program (IOP) serves as an intermediary between traditional therapy and inpatient treatment, catering specifically to high-acuity mental health patients. This program integrates supported groups, individual therapy, and family therapy into personalized treatment plans, ensuring that patients receive care tailored to their specific needs. Recognizing the increase in suicide rates and emergency room visits for self-harm among youth aged 10 to 19, Carter Barnhart, CEO, and Co-founder of Charlie Health, outlines the urgent need for enhanced mental health support and resources. Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reveal concerning trends, indicating growth in adolescents and teens seeking mental health services, which has put a notable strain on existing resources. Charlie Health’s evidence-based virtual IOP aims to address this growing demand and bridge the care gaps faced by high-acuity mental health patients by providing timely access to treatment solutions that have been shown to drive positive outcomes.
The collaboration between Memorial Hermann and Charlie Health seeks to improve access to mental health services while focusing on the delivery of high-quality, effective care. Peer-reviewed research has demonstrated positive outcomes for patients, with a large proportion experiencing improvements in symptoms related to depression, anxiety, self-harm, and suicidal thoughts following treatment. This evidence-based approach ensures that patients receive tailored care to address their specific mental health needs. Charlie Health’s services are designed to be accessible, with most major commercial insurance and Medicaid plans in Texas covering the cost of virtual treatment programs. This ensures that financial barriers do not hinder individuals from accessing the mental health care they need. By being in-network with major insurance providers, Charlie Health can reach a broader population and fill gaps in mental health services, particularly for high-acuity patients.
The collaboration between Memorial Hermann Health System and Charlie Health shows an effort to address the mental health crisis facing teenagers and young adults in Texas. By leveraging virtual treatment solutions and evidence-based approaches, this partnership aims to improve access to outpatient mental health treatment programs and deliver high-quality care to those in need. Through initiatives like this collaboration, healthcare providers are working towards a future where mental health care is accessible, effective, and equitable for all.
