Telehealth Resources
Best Practice Guidelines for Integrating Telehealth
By following these best practices your clinic can effectively integrate a successful and sustainable telehealth services program, improving access to care for your rural patient population.
Platforms and Reimbursement
There are several telehealth platforms available.When selecting a telehealth platform, consider factors such as ease of use, integration capabilities with existing systems, and specific features that align with your practice's needs. Always ensure that the platform signs a Business Associate Agreement to formalize its commitment to HIPAA compliance.
Grant Opportunities
Grant Funding for Telehealth Programs
Many rural programs rely on grant funding from federal agencies, state agencies, associations, and philanthropic organizations in order to sustain telehealth programs. The Rural Health Information Hub has a telehealth grant page and a sort feature for funding Opportunities by topic with up-to-date information on funding options for rural communities.
Universal Service Administration Co. (USAC)
The USAC Rural Health Care (RHC) program provides funding to eligible health care providers for telecommunications and broadband services needed to deliver health care. The goal of the program is to improve the quality of health care available to patients in rural communities by ensuring that eligible health care providers have access to telecommunications and broadband services. As an independent not-for-profit organization designated by the FCC, USAC administers the RHC program and all other programs associated with the Universal Service Fund (USF).
Technical Assistance
Resources to help with setting up telehealth services, including equipment and training options.
Washington State Resources and Regulations
The state Department of Health (DOH) Telehealth Resources webpage provides information on telemedicine services, training requirements, and profession-specific guidelines. It also includes links to state legislation and the Washington State Telehealth Collaborative Training page for further training options.
CMS MLN Fact Sheet- Telehealth Services
The fact sheet published by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) in April 2024 provides comprehensive information (PDF) on Medicare's policies regarding telehealth services, including updates and guidelines for healthcare providers.
National Association of Rural Health Clinics (NARHC) - Telehealth Policy & Resources
The NARHC website provides various resources to assist RHCs in navigating the evolving telehealth landscape, including policy updates, advocacy tools, and educational materials. For detailed information and the latest updates, RHCs are encouraged to visit NARHC's Telehealth Policy page.
Northwest Regional Telehealth Resource Center (NRTRC)
Serving a seven-state region, including Washington, NRTRC provides technical assistance, program support, education, and information to telehealth networks, particularly in rural and underserved communities.
Washington State Department of Health Telehealth Resources
The Department of Health website provides comprehensive information on telehealth regulations, guidelines, and resources specific to Washington state, assisting both providers and patients in navigating telehealth services.