Medical Ethics and Telehealth in Long Term Care

Course overview

Professional ethics and telehealth are both aspects of healthcare that have become increasingly important today. Ethical values and ethical practice are a foundation for health care professionals who deal with ethical issues daily. Ethical dilemmas arise as they care for clients and these dilemmas may at times conflict with personal or professional ethical values. Ultimately the health care professionals are advocates for their clients and must find a balance while delivering care and support. The Covid 19 pandemic has drawn greater focus and a rapid advancement in the utilization of telehealth particularly in long term care. Fears of spreading and catching the virus during in person medical visits have led to a greater interest in the use of technology to provide and receive health care. Almost three quarters of Americans surveyed said the COVID 19 pandemic has made them more eager to try virtual care. One in four Americans over age 50 said they had a virtual health care visit during the first three months of the pandemic up from just four percent of older adults who had a remote visit the previous years. This program will help health care professionals adhere to their professional Code of Ethics guiding their interactions with clients and helping them resolve conflicts and ethical dilemmas that may arise. It also explores the challenges health professionals face in helping clients utilize telehealth options to overcome limitations that are commonly experienced in long term care.