Telehealth Terms Glossary: Telehealth Terms in 2024
A
Asynchronous Communication
Asynchronous communication refers to communication that does not happen in real-time, allowing participants to communicate at their own convenience without requiring simultaneous interaction.
C
Continuum Of Care
Continuum of care refers to a comprehensive range of healthcare services delivered to patients across different levels of care.
D
Digital Divide
The digital divide refers to the gap between individuals or communities who have access to and benefit from digital technologies, and those who do not, hindering their ability to participate in telehealth services.
Digital Health
Digital health refers to the use of digital technologies and devices to manage and improve health and healthcare.
E
E-Consultation
E-consultation is a telehealth service that allows healthcare professionals to provide consultations and advice to patients electronically, via secure messaging or email, reducing the need for in-person visits.
E-Health
E-Health is the use of electronic means to support the delivery of healthcare services and information.
E-Prescribing
E-Prescribing is the electronic transmission of prescriptions from healthcare providers to pharmacies.
Ehr/Emr
EHR (Electronic Health Record) or EMR (Electronic Medical Record) refers to digital systems that store and manage patients' health information, including medical history, diagnoses, medications, and treatment plans.
Evidence-Based Medicine
Evidence-based medicine refers to medical practice that is based on research evidence and clinical expertise.
H
Health Information Exchange (Hie)
Health Information Exchange (HIE) is the electronic sharing of patient medical information between healthcare organizations.
Hipaa
HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act) is a US law that regulates the privacy and security of individuals' health information, ensuring its confidentiality and proper handling in telehealth.
Home Telehealth
Home telehealth is the delivery of healthcare services and remote monitoring for patients in their own homes, using telecommunication technology, reducing the need for in-person visits.
I
Informed Consent
Informed consent is the process of obtaining a patient's agreement for a medical intervention after informing them of risks and benefits.
M
Mhealth
mHealth, or mobile health, refers to the use of mobile devices, such as smartphones or tablets, to support healthcare services, including health education, remote monitoring, and medication reminders.
P
Patient Portal
A patient portal is a secure online platform that allows patients to access their medical records and communicate with healthcare providers.
R
Remote Consultation
Remote consultation is the process of seeking advice and treatment from healthcare providers remotely.
Remote Monitoring
Remote monitoring is the use of technology to collect patient data, such as vital signs, from a distance, and transmit it to healthcare professionals for analysis and decision-making.
Remote Patient Monitoring
Remote patient monitoring involves the use of technology to collect patient data outside of traditional healthcare settings.
Remote Prescription
Remote prescription is the process of issuing medication prescriptions to patients without an in-person consultation, through telecommunication means.
Remote Surgery
Remote surgery, also known as telesurgery, is a type of surgery performed by a surgeon using robotic or remote-controlled systems.
S
Secure Messaging
Secure messaging is a communication method that ensures the privacy and security of healthcare-related messages.
Store-And-Forward
Store-and-forward is a telehealth method where patient data, such as medical images or test results, are captured and transmitted to healthcare professionals for later review and analysis.
Synchronous Communication
Synchronous communication refers to real-time communication where all participants are actively involved at the same time, such as video conferences or live chats.
T
Tele-Audiometry
Tele-audiometry is a telemedicine service that allows for remote hearing testing and audiology services.
Tele-Emergency
Tele-Emergency is a telehealth service that connects emergency physicians with patients in remote locations for immediate care.
Teleaudiology
Teleaudiology is the practice of providing audiology care and services remotely.
Teleburn
Teleburn is a telemedicine service that assists in the evaluation and management of burn injuries remotely.
Telecardiology
Telecardiology is the remote delivery of cardiology services and care using telecommunication technology.
Teleconciliation
Teleconciliation is the remote diagnosis and management of medication-related issues using telecommunication technology.
Teleconsultation
Teleconsultation is the provision of medical consultations remotely, using telecommunication tools, allowing patients to receive healthcare advice without visiting a physical clinic.
Teledermatology
Teledermatology is the remote diagnosis and treatment of skin conditions using telecommunication technology.
Telehealth
Telehealth is the use of technology to provide healthcare services remotely, allowing patients to consult with healthcare professionals through virtual means.
Telehealth Accessibility
Telehealth accessibility refers to designing and implementing telehealth services that are available and usable by individuals with disabilities, ensuring equal access and accommodation.
Telehealth Adoption
Telehealth adoption is the process of integrating telehealth services and technologies into healthcare systems and practices, including the acceptance and utilization by healthcare professionals and patients.
Telehealth Analytics
Telehealth analytics involves the analysis and interpretation of data generated from telehealth services, providing insights into patient outcomes, usage patterns, and system performance.
Telehealth Appointment Scheduling
Telehealth appointment scheduling is the process of booking and arranging virtual consultations or visits, allowing patients to select available time slots and receive confirmation for telehealth appointments.
Telehealth Billing
Telehealth billing refers to the process of generating and submitting medical bills and claims for telehealth services provided, including reimbursement from insurers and payment from patients.
Telehealth Care Coordination
Telehealth care coordination involves the organization and management of patient care across different healthcare providers, settings, and specialties through telecommunication technologies, ensuring seamless transitions and continuity of care.
Telehealth Certification
Telehealth certification is the process of obtaining formal recognition or credentials for proficiency and compliance in telehealth practices, often issued by professional organizations or telehealth authorities.
Telehealth Chronic Disease Management
Telehealth chronic disease management involves the use of telehealth solutions to monitor and support individuals with chronic conditions, such as diabetes, heart disease, or asthma, remotely.
Telehealth Chronic Pain Management
Telehealth chronic pain management involves the remote delivery of specialized pain management services, such as physical therapy, counseling, medication management, and behavioral therapy, through telecommunication technologies.
Telehealth Clinical Decision Support
Telehealth clinical decision support involves the use of digital tools and technologies to provide healthcare professionals with evidence-based guidelines, recommendations, and alerts during telehealth consultations or evaluations, assisting in clinical decision-making.
Telehealth Consent
Telehealth consent is the process of obtaining the patient's agreement and understanding to participate in telehealth services, including the acknowledgment of the limitations, benefits, and risks.
Telehealth Consent Form
Telehealth consent form is a document that outlines and records the patient's agreement, understanding, and consent to receive healthcare services through telehealth, including the acknowledgment of potential limitations and risks.
Telehealth Consultation Hours
Telehealth consultation hours refer to the specific hours during which healthcare professionals are available to provide telehealth consultations and services.
Telehealth Continuity Of Care
Telehealth continuity of care ensures the seamless transfer of patient information, ongoing treatment plans, and coordination between healthcare providers when transitioning between in-person and telehealth services.
Telehealth Counselling
Telehealth counselling is the provision of mental health counseling and therapy through telecommunication technologies, enabling remote sessions and support for individuals in need.
Telehealth Data Analytics
Telehealth data analytics involves the examination and interpretation of data collected from telehealth services to identify trends, patterns, and opportunities for improving care quality and outcomes.
Telehealth Data Management
Telehealth data management encompasses the practices and technologies used to collect, organize, store, secure, and analyze patient data generated through telehealth services, ensuring accuracy, integrity, and compliance.
Telehealth Data Privacy
Telehealth data privacy refers to the protection and control of patient's personal health information in telehealth, including consent, data storage, sharing, and compliance with privacy laws.
Telehealth Dermatology
Telehealth dermatology involves the remote assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of skin conditions and diseases through telecommunication technologies, allowing individuals to receive dermatological care and advice without the need for physical visits.
Telehealth Diagnostic Imaging
Telehealth diagnostic imaging involves the remote interpretation and analysis of medical images, such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs, by radiologists using telecommunication technologies, enabling timely and accurate diagnoses.
Telehealth E-Prescribing
Telehealth e-prescribing is the electronic transmission of prescriptions from healthcare professionals to pharmacies, enabling patients to receive their medications without the need for physical prescriptions.
Telehealth Equipment
Telehealth equipment refers to the devices, tools, and peripherals used in telehealth, such as video cameras, digital stethoscopes, patient monitoring devices, and electronic health record systems.
Telehealth Ethics
Telehealth ethics refer to the ethical considerations and guidelines that govern the practice of telehealth, including patient privacy, informed consent, data security, and the appropriate use of technology.
Telehealth Follow-Up Care
Telehealth follow-up care is the provision of post-treatment or post-operative check-ups and evaluations remotely, allowing healthcare professionals to monitor recovery and address any concerns.
Telehealth Genetic Counseling
Telehealth genetic counseling involves the remote provision of counseling and support for individuals and families who may be at risk of genetic disorders or inherited conditions, helping them understand the implications, make informed decisions, and seek appropriate care through telecommunication technologies.
Telehealth Health Literacy
Telehealth health literacy refers to an individual's ability to understand and navigate telehealth services and information effectively, making informed decisions and managing their health remotely.
Telehealth Home Health Services
Telehealth home health services involve the remote provision of skilled nursing care, rehabilitation, wound care, monitoring, and support services for individuals who receive healthcare at home, delivered through telecommunication technologies.
Telehealth Infectious Disease Management
Telehealth infectious disease management involves the remote monitoring, evaluation, and treatment of individuals with infectious diseases, such as COVID-19, to minimize the spread and provide timely care and support through telecommunication technologies.
Telehealth Informed Consent
Telehealth informed consent involves obtaining the patient's voluntary agreement to participate in telehealth services, ensuring they understand the purpose, methods, risks, and benefits.
Telehealth Integration
Telehealth integration is the process of incorporating telehealth services and technologies into existing healthcare systems, including integration with electronic health record systems and other healthcare software.
Telehealth Interoperability
Telehealth interoperability refers to the ability of different telehealth systems, devices, and software to exchange and interpret patient data seamlessly, ensuring effective communication and sharing of information across platforms and healthcare settings.
Telehealth Marketing
Telehealth marketing involves promoting and advertising telehealth services, reaching out to potential patients, and creating awareness about the benefits and availability of telehealth.
Telehealth Maternal Care
Telehealth maternal care involves the remote provision of prenatal, prenatal, and postnatal care, including consultations, monitoring, health education, and support, for expectant mothers through telecommunication technologies.
Telehealth Medical History
Telehealth medical history refers to the collection and documentation of a patient's medical background, including past illnesses, surgeries, medications, allergies, and family medical history, for remote assessment and consultations.
Telehealth Medication Management
Telehealth medication management involves the remote monitoring, evaluation, and adjustment of patients' medication regimens, including dosage instructions, side effects, and adherence.
Telehealth Mental Health Services
Telehealth mental health services encompass a wide range of remote mental health supports and interventions, such as counseling, therapy, medication management, crisis intervention, and peer support, delivered through telecommunication technologies.
Telehealth Network
A telehealth network is a connected system of healthcare providers and facilities that collaborate to deliver telehealth services.
Telehealth Occupational Therapy
Telehealth occupational therapy involves the remote delivery of therapeutic activities and interventions to individuals with physical, cognitive, or developmental challenges, allowing them to develop independence and functional skills through telecommunication technologies.
Telehealth Outcomes
Telehealth outcomes refer to the results and effects of telehealth interventions, including improvements in patient access, satisfaction, clinical outcomes, cost-effectiveness, and population health.
Telehealth Patient Education
Telehealth patient education involves providing patients with information, resources, and support to enhance their understanding of health conditions, treatment options, self-care practices, and preventive measures through telecommunication mediums.
Telehealth Patient Follow-Up
Telehealth patient follow-up involves remote check-ins, assessments, and monitoring of patients after receiving treatment or services, ensuring their progress, addressing concerns, and adjusting treatment plans as necessary.
Telehealth Pediatrics
Telehealth pediatrics involves the remote provision of healthcare services to children, including consultations, evaluations, monitoring, and health education, provided by pediatricians or other specialized healthcare professionals through telecommunication technologies.
Telehealth Pharmacy Services
Telehealth pharmacy services include remote medication counseling, prescription dispensing, medication therapy management, and follow-up support provided by pharmacists through telecommunication technologies, ensuring safe and effective medication use.
Telehealth Physician Shortage
Telehealth physician shortage refers to the lack of available healthcare professionals, particularly in underserved areas, and the use of telehealth to bridge the gap and provide access to care.
Telehealth Platform
A telehealth platform is a digital software or system that supports the delivery of telehealth services, providing features such as video conferencing, patient record management, and remote patient monitoring.
Telehealth Post-Discharge Care
Telehealth post-discharge care is the remote provision of healthcare services, support, and monitoring for individuals who have been discharged from hospitals or healthcare facilities, reducing the risk of readmissions and complications.
Telehealth Preoperative Evaluation
Telehealth preoperative evaluation is the remote assessment and preparation of patients scheduled for surgical procedures, allowing healthcare professionals to determine an individual's readiness for surgery, identify potential risks, and provide necessary instructions and guidance.
Telehealth Privacy Policies
Telehealth privacy policies outline the guidelines and practices for protecting patient privacy and maintaining confidentiality in telehealth, including data security measures.
Telehealth Quality Assessment
Telehealth quality assessment is the evaluation and monitoring of telehealth services to ensure they meet established standards of quality, safety, effectiveness, and patient satisfaction.
Telehealth Regulations
Telehealth regulations are laws and policies set by governments and healthcare organizations to govern the use and practice of telehealth, ensuring safety, quality, and compliance.
Telehealth Rehabilitation
Telehealth rehabilitation is the delivery of rehabilitation services, such as physical therapy or occupational therapy, through telecommunication technologies, allowing individuals to receive care at home.
Telehealth Second Opinion
Telehealth second opinion is the process of seeking expert medical advice or evaluations remotely, often from specialists or healthcare professionals located in different locations, to confirm diagnoses or explore alternative treatment options.
Telehealth Security
Telehealth security refers to the measures and protocols put in place to protect patient information and ensure the privacy and integrity of telehealth systems and communications.
Telehealth Specialist Referral
Telehealth specialist referral is the process of recommending and connecting patients with specialized healthcare professionals, such as surgeons, cardiologists, or psychiatrists, remotely for further evaluation or treatment.
Telehealth Speech Therapy
Telehealth speech therapy involves the delivery of speech and language therapy services remotely, allowing individuals with communication disorders to receive assessment, therapy, and support through telecommunication technologies.
Telehealth Support Services
Telehealth support services include technical support, troubleshooting, and assistance for healthcare professionals and patients using telehealth technologies and platforms.
Telehealth Symptom Monitoring
Telehealth symptom monitoring involves the remote tracking and evaluation of patients' symptoms, enabling healthcare professionals to adjust treatment plans or provide timely interventions.
Telehealth Training
Telehealth training is the education and preparation of healthcare professionals and staff to effectively and safely use telehealth technologies and workflows in their practice.
Telehealth Triage Nurse
Telehealth triage nurse is a registered nurse who provides remote evaluations, assessments, and recommendations to patients, helping them determine the urgency of their condition and appropriate next steps, such as seeking emergency care or scheduling appointments.
Telehealth Urgent Care
Telehealth urgent care refers to the remote provision of immediate medical care and treatment for urgent but non-life-threatening conditions, allowing patients to receive timely assessments and care without physically visiting an emergency room.
Telehealth Virtual Care
Telehealth virtual care encompasses a wide range of remote healthcare services, including consultations, diagnoses, treatment, monitoring, and support, delivered through telecommunication technologies and platforms.
Telehealth Workflow
Telehealth workflow is the sequence of tasks, processes, and interactions involved in delivering telehealth services, from scheduling and registration to virtual consultations, referrals, and follow-ups.
Telehealth Workflow Optimization
Telehealth workflow optimization involves analyzing and refining the processes and steps involved in delivering telehealth services to improve efficiency, usability, and user experience for both healthcare professionals and patients.
Telehematology
Telehematology is the use of telecommunication technology for remote diagnosis and treatment of blood-related conditions.
Teleicu
TeleICU is a telemedicine service that provides intensive care coverage and support remotely.
Teleintensivist
Teleintensivist is a telemedicine service that provides critical care remotely to critically ill patients.
Telemedicine
Telemedicine is a subset of telehealth that specifically refers to remote clinical services, such as consultations and diagnoses, provided through telecommunication technology.
Telemedicine Cart
A telemedicine cart is a mobile unit that contains the necessary equipment for virtual healthcare consultations.
Telemedicine Grant
A telemedicine grant is a funding opportunity aimed at supporting the implementation and expansion of telehealth services.
Telemonitoring
Telemonitoring is the continuous remote monitoring of patients' health conditions through the use of medical devices, such as wearable sensors or home monitoring systems, allowing early identification of potential issues.
Teleoccupational Therapy
Teleoccupational therapy involves the delivery of occupational therapy services remotely using telecommunication technology.
Teleoncology
Teleoncology is the use of telecommunication technology to deliver cancer care and treatment remotely.
Teleophthalmology
Teleophthalmology is the use of telecommunication technology for remote diagnosis and treatment of eye conditions.
Telepathology
Telepathology is the remote diagnosis of disease through the transmission of pathology images.
Telepediatrics
Telepediatrics is the delivery of pediatric healthcare services remotely using telecommunication technology.
Telepharmacy
Telepharmacy is the provision of pharmacy services remotely, allowing patients to consult with pharmacists through telecommunication means, including medication counseling and prescription dispensing.
Telephlebology
Telephlebology is the remote diagnosis and treatment of vein-related conditions using telecommunication technology.
Telephonic Outreach
Telephonic outreach is the practice of reaching out to patients by phone for healthcare-related purposes.
Telephonic Triage
Telephonic triage involves the remote assessment and categorization of patients' medical needs through telephone consultations.
Telepresence
Telepresence refers to the use of technology to create a sense of presence and engagement during remote interactions.
Telepsychiatry
Telepsychiatry is the delivery of psychiatric assessments and treatments remotely using videoconferencing technology.
Telestroke
Telestroke is a telemedicine service that enables remote assessment and treatment of stroke patients by connecting neurologists to patients in different locations, reducing response time and improving outcomes.
Teletrauma
Teletrauma is a telemedicine service that enables remote evaluation and treatment of traumatic injuries.
Teletriage
Teletriage is the process of determining the urgency and appropriate level of care for patients remotely, usually through telephone or digital communication, based on their symptoms or medical history.
Telewound
Telewound is a telemedicine service that provides remote wound care and management.
V
Video Conferencing
Video conferencing is a method of communication that allows individuals or groups to conduct virtual meetings or consultations through the use of video and audio technology.
Virtual Care
Virtual care refers to the delivery of healthcare services through digital platforms and telecommunication technology.
Virtual Visits
Virtual visits are telehealth consultations or appointments that take place remotely, allowing patients and healthcare professionals to interact and exchange health information through video calls or other digital means.