In response to the evolving telemedicine landscape, Michigan State University convened the inaugural "Telehealth post-pandemic: A roadmap for the coming decade" at the Kellogg Center, bringing together 29 leading telehealth practitioners, innovators and experts from Michigan. This event marked a significant step forward in addressing the urgent need for a cohesive strategy to harness the power of telehealth in the coming decades. 

Since the COVID-19 pandemic spurred a rapid expansion in telehealth use, the healthcare industry has seen both remarkable advancements and significant challenges, particularly in policy and reimbursement. As federal provisions that once supported widespread telehealth usage are rolled back, the importance of developing a sustainable, equitable telehealth model for all of Michigan has never been greater. 

Leadership and Recognition 

 

The event was led by Bree Holtz, associate professor at Michigan State University, whose leadership in telehealth research has been instrumental in driving forward this critical dialogue. Holtz’s contributions were further recognized during the event when she was inducted into the American Telemedicine Association, or ATA, College of Fellows, an honor presented by Charles Doarn, director of the University of Cincinnati Space Research Institute for Discovery and Exploration and chair for the ATA College of Fellows. 

Kicking off the event, Interim Provost Thomas Jeitschko remarked on the unique opportunity presented by the rapid transition to telehealth during the pandemic: “As we navigate our way back to a ‘new normal,’ we have a unique opportunity to learn from this rapid transition and identify best practices for providing equitable, accessible, and high-quality healthcare to all Michiganders,” said Jeitschko.

The provost emphasized the importance of addressing the significant challenges that remain, including equitable access to high-speed internet, provider licensure, reimbursement policies, and digital literacy. “With its diverse population and unique challenges, our state serves as a microcosm of the broader United States. By addressing these challenges here, we can develop solutions that have the potential to benefit the entire nation,” Jeitschko said. 

Strategic outcomes and future directions 

The Telehealth Think Tank’s collaborative efforts are set to produce a series of impactful outputs, including a special issue in the leading telemedicine journal, Telemedicine and eHealth. These publications will serve as a roadmap for the future of telehealth, focusing on key areas such as technology, patient equity, education, clinical opportunities, and policy development. 

In addition to scholarly publications, the think tank will also develop actionable projects to fill existing gaps in telehealth service delivery across Michigan. The event featured diverse perspectives, including representatives from Michigan’s indigenous, migrant, and disadvantaged communities, ensuring that the discussions and outcomes reflect a broad spectrum of experiences and needs. 

Sponsors and support 

The success of the Telehealth Think Tank was made possible by the generous support of Michigan Health Endowment, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Merit Network, Mary Anne Liebert publications, Michigan Center for Rural Health, College of Human Medicine, College of Communication Arts and Sciences, and the Michigan State University Provost’s Office. Their contributions, totaling $20,000, were essential in facilitating this groundbreaking event which will shape the future of telehealth in Michigan and beyond. 

Looking ahead 

The outcomes of this think tank will be shared widely. Holtz will encourage the healthcare community to engage with the forthcoming publications and consider how the insights gained can inform their work. As telehealth continues to evolve, the findings and recommendations from this event will be crucial in guiding future innovations and ensuring that telehealth remains a vital tool for achieving health equity. 

This story was originally featured on the College of Communication Arts and Sciences website.