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In the first half of 2020 — the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic — telehealth experienced extraordinary growth as social distancing protocols, concern over spreading the virus, and other pandemic realities spurred demand and adoption. While this growth has receded since that time, usage remains well above pre-pandemic levels and the regulatory environment remains dynamic.¹

An adverse drug event (ADE) is defined as “harm experienced by a patient as a result of exposure to a medication.”¹ The Institute of Medicine says an ADE is “an injury resulting from a medical intervention.”² Like any adverse event, occurrence of an ADE does not necessarily indicate an error or poor quality care. However, adverse drug events account for nearly 700,000 emergency department visits and 100,000 hospitalizations annually.¹

The healthcare setting often involves sensitive and intimate exams that present challenges other businesses don’t face. Medical chaperones can provide a level of comfort for patients and may help ensure the best possible experience for patients and physicians alike. In so doing, the likelihood of a sexual misconduct allegation based on a misunderstanding is greatly reduced.¹ And while the case study below involves a physician and this article references physicians throughout, the lessons and recommendations are applicable to any healthcare professional.

Patient activation has a significant effect on a patient’s management of chronic disease.¹ Various studies indicate that promoting discussion and problem solving to help chronic disease patients make informed self-management choices on an ongoing basis increases activation and improves outcomes.²

The ability of patients to comply with discharge instructions is related to their activation level. Research indicates that identifying and intervening on behalf of patients with low activation levels could reduce their risk of an unplanned rehospitalization.¹