The United States public health emergency (PHE) has transformed healthcare, with telehealth becoming a vital tool for delivering patient care. As the PHE officially ends on [insert date], telehealth providers must be ready for the changes this brings. Here are three essential strategies to help you prepare for this transition.

Patients highly value telemedicine for its convenience. Many reported appreciating the ability to attend appointments without traveling, waiting in physical waiting rooms, or taking time off work. Convenience is particularly important for individuals managing chronic conditions that require frequent consultations.

Update Your Telehealth Policies for Compliance

The end of the PHE means the expiration of certain temporary waivers, including HIPAA enforcement discretion for telehealth. Now is the time to revisit your telehealth policies to ensure compliance with federal and state regulations.

Steps to consider

Confirm that your telehealth software complies with HIPAA standards, including encryption and secure communication protocols.

• Confirm that your telehealth software complies with HIPAA standards, including encryption and secure communication protocols.
• Review state-specific telehealth laws, as requirements can vary widely.
• Train staff on updated procedures to ensure they understand the importance of maintaining patient privacy and data security.
• Got it! Let me know if you need help editing, improving

2. Reassess Your Technology and Vendor Relationships

The tools you use during the PHE may no longer meet regulatory requirements post-PHE. It’s critical to ensure your technology and vendor partnerships are equipped for the changes.Conduct a risk assessment of your telehealth platform to identify any vulnerabilities.Secure or renew Business Associate Agreements (BAAs) with any vendors that handle patient information.Evaluate patient feedback on the tools you use to identify any areas for improvement in usability or accessibility.

3. Strengthen Patient Verification and Privacy Protocols

Telehealth requires robust systems to confirm patient identity and maintain privacy, especially in the absence of in-person interaction.

• Implement a standard process for patient verification, such as requiring a government-issued ID or confirming two personal identifiers.
• Take telehealth calls in private, secure locations to ensure confidentiality.
• Communicate openly with patients about how their data is protected and encourage them to take precautions on their end, such as using private devices and secure internet connections.

4.SolidifyLegal and Administrative Documentation

With enforcement discretion ending, it’s crucial to ensure all requiredagreements and documentation are in place.

• Ensurethat you have a BAA with any third-party service provider that handles PHI,including telehealth software vendors and cloud storage providers.
• Reviewand update your privacy policies, consent forms, and internal procedures toalign with current HIPAA requirements.

Why Preparing for the End of the PHE Matters

The shift away from the PHE environment is not just a regulatory change; it’s an opportunity to solidify the best practices that make telehealth a safe, convenient, and trusted option for patients. By focusing on compliance, technology, and patient care protocols, telehealth providers can continue to thrive in this evolving landscape.

‍