What is a significant concern for health information management professionals regarding telehealth?

The significant concern for health information management professionals regarding telehealth centers on the secure management of larger volumes of data. As telehealth has expanded, the amount of patient data generated and transmitted has increased substantially. This includes not only the standard clinical data but also video and audio recordings, as well as health data from wearable devices.

Health information management professionals focus on ensuring that this data is collected, stored, and transmitted securely to protect patient privacy and comply with regulations such as HIPAA. The shift to telehealth also raises issues related to data integration and interoperability, as electronic health records (EHRs) and telehealth platforms must work together to provide a comprehensive view of patient health.

Maintaining the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of sensitive health information is crucial, necessitating robust cybersecurity measures and protocols. These professionals must also address challenges related to data governance, ensuring that data quality remains high even as the volume increases. This focus on secure management reflects broader trends in healthcare towards increased reliance on digital tools and data-driven decision-making.