Workflow Integration & Program Implementation Flashcards

Which factor is MOST likely to cause workflow disruption during an initial telehealth implementation?

Answer: Resistance from staff who were not involved in planning

Staff who feel excluded from planning are more likely to resist new workflows, which is the leading cause of implementation failure.

A large health system is rolling out telehealth across 12 departments. Which governance structure BEST supports consistent workflow implementation?

Answer: A centralized telehealth steering committee with departmental representatives

A steering committee with cross-departmental representation ensures standardization while accommodating specialty-specific needs.

In a telehealth workflow, what is the purpose of a 'technical triage' step before the provider joins?

Answer: To verify the patient's audio/video connectivity and resolve issues before the clinical encounter begins

Technical triage prevents visit delays caused by connectivity issues by resolving them before the provider's time is consumed.

A telehealth coordinator wants to improve patient throughput. Which workflow change has the MOST direct impact?

Answer: Standardizing virtual room preparation checklists and reducing setup time per visit

Standardized pre-visit checklists reduce variability and non-clinical time, directly increasing the number of visits that can be completed per session.

Which of the following BEST describes the role of a telehealth coordinator during the 'optimization' phase of program implementation?

Answer: Analyzing performance data, soliciting feedback, and iterating on workflows to improve outcomes

The optimization phase involves continuous improvement through data review, stakeholder feedback, and targeted workflow adjustments.

A hospital implements telehealth consults for hospitalists. The workflow should include an escalation path for when:

Answer: The remote consultant determines the patient requires an in-person evaluation or emergent intervention

Every telehealth consult workflow must include a clear escalation path for situations requiring physical assessment or emergency response.

When documenting a telehealth encounter in the EHR, the coordinator should ensure the provider records:

Answer: The modality used, patient location, provider location, and that consent was obtained

Complete telehealth documentation includes modality, locations of both parties, and consent, which are required for compliance and billing.