Trend Watch: Web Conferencing Telehealth Solutions

The COVID-19 pandemic changed many parts of our daily lives. Within the healthcare sector, the CDC noted a 154 percent increase in telehealth visits during the last week of March 2020, compared to the same period in 2019. Web conferencing telehealth solutions continue to be a mainstay, providing and expanding access to care.

Most common web conferencing solutions were not developed for healthcare and therefore struggle to come up with the vigorous solutions needed to meet HIPAA compliance. The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA) was enacted to protect patients’ privacy and ensure they have access to their medical records. Health care providers and any supporting companies that store patients’ Personal Identifiable Information (PII) and medical records in the U.S. are required by law to follow the HIPAA rules. For software companies, the rules apply mostly to how PII is transmitted and stored, and who has access to it.

HIPPA Compliance with Video Conferencing

Zoom, which became the most popular web conferencing software for businesses, was not made for online telehealth use. In fact, both the free and paid versions of Zoom are not HIPAA compliant. There is a HIPPA compliant version, but Zoom does not even advertise pricing for this version. A call to a sales rep, however, uncovered that the HIPAA compliant plans are a minimum of $200 per month and hold a 12-month contract.

Clear.Live, however, was built with telemedicine capabilities in mind, not adapted after the fact to fit an emerging market. Every Clear.Live web conferencing solution is backed by 265-bit encryption to ensure that your calls are protected against hacking and meet federal government level compliance. Additionally, our secure technology keeps confidential information private and HIPAA compliant.

When researching telehealth web conferencing solutions, physicians must look for a solution that rises above the compliance of HIPAA. A true solution is designed from the ground up with HIPAA in mind, incorporating a keen eye on the protection of patient privacy and the sensitive information they have entrusted your practice with. HIPAA should never be viewed as a burden, instead it should be seen as a helpful set of guidelines to give your patients the protection and care they need.

Using Web Conferencing Software for Your Patients

Telehealth through video conferencing is a healthcare revolution, but virtual meeting etiquette is still new to many and can hinder doctor-patient interactions if not handled well. It is important that high-quality equipment is used to get the best sound quality and lighting for effective communication.

Even though you are not seeing patients in a physical office setting, as a doctor, patients expect you to dress appropriately and create a professional space for the meeting. This doesn’t mean that you have to be in an exam room. Instead, just ensure that your space is clean, quiet and that the background is inviting yet professional.

Plan for a web meeting just as you would an in-person visit by thoroughly reviewing patient complaints, being punctual, and properly defining post-appointment instructions.

Without a doubt, telemedicine is changing the healthcare sector for the better. Robust video conferencing solutions provide more accessible and convenient healthcare for both doctors and patients and result in fewer hospital readmissions, happier patients, better care outcomes and a more profitable practice.

Clear.Live’s matchless encryption and unrivaled system security mean that you can visit with your patients without any unwelcome surprises while meeting the rigorous requirements of HIPAA. Start a free trial today to learn more!