#19 – Insights on the Future of Telehealth: Ann Mond Johnson, CEO, American Telemedicine Association

Introduction

The landscape of healthcare is rapidly evolving, especially in the domain of telehealth. To get an insider’s perspective, Meena Mallipeddi of AmplifyMD spoke to Ann Mond Johnson, CEO of the American Telemedicine Association (ATA). The conversation delved into the ATA’s goals, the impact of COVID-19, regulatory challenges, and the role of telehealth in eliminating healthcare disparities.

The ATA’s Mission and Journey

Ann Mond Johnson has been at the helm of the ATA for over five years, bringing her rich experience from healthcare startups. The ATA, nearing its 30th anniversary, advocates for telehealth’s broad spectrum of modalities, from video conferencing to AI-powered remote monitoring. With a membership base representing over 400 organizations, the ATA aims to establish telehealth as a natural modality of care. In their vision, telehealth is not an alternative but a supplementary tool in the medical toolbox for both clinicians and consumers.

Telehealth in the Time of COVID-19

When the pandemic struck, the ATA was instrumental in advocacy efforts to expand telehealth access. Ann highlights that before the pandemic, regulations limited telehealth due to policies made in the ’90s, well before today’s technology. The pandemic served as a catalyst, compelling lawmakers to relax regulations. A range of waivers were instituted, most of which have been extended through 2024, thereby broadening telehealth’s reach and acceptance among the masses.

Regulatory Challenges: What’s Next?

Although waivers have provided temporary relief, some challenges like control of substances still loom. To secure telehealth’s future, the ATA is actively working on federal and state levels to make the waivers permanent and dismantle in-person requirements. Ann points out the extensive research and studies from esteemed organizations like Mayo Clinic that invalidate myths about telehealth’s effectiveness compared to in-person care.

Addressing Healthcare Disparities with Telehealth

One of the more pressing concerns is how telehealth can be utilized to eliminate healthcare disparities. Ann elaborated on the ATA’s advisory group that focuses on these issues, identifying barriers like connectivity, device access, data literacy, and trust within communities. Partnering with local trusted organizations like churches, schools, and neighborhood organizations is crucial to ensuring telehealth solutions are accessible and well-received.

Building Trust and Engagement

The key to widespread adoption of telehealth lies in building trust. By collaborating with local entities, telehealth providers can build trust and facilitate greater acceptance of technology-enabled care. Ann shared examples of successful engagement models where community participation led to greater health outcomes.

Slice of Healthcare Wrap Up

As telehealth continues to evolve, it’s essential for regulatory bodies, healthcare providers, and consumers to work collaboratively. With leaders like Ann Mond Johnson steering organizations like the ATA, the future of telehealth seems not just promising but integral to the advancement of healthcare as a whole.

By diving into this multifaceted discussion, it becomes evident that the future of telehealth is a shared responsibility that requires concerted efforts from all stakeholders. Through continued advocacy, research, and community engagement, telehealth can indeed become a cornerstone of modern healthcare.