Using digital navigators to get telehealth care
Digital navigators can teach patients how to get health care from home or work.
Using telehealth to receive health care services has become more common. However, patients who struggle with high tech tools may not use telehealth. Digital navigators are helpers who teach people to use electronic devices. They can help patients feel comfortable using telehealth.
Some people need help using telehealth because they are not comfortable with high tech gadgets. Others don’t have access to the internet or a device. Technology and the internet are important because they let people get the services they need.
Digital navigators help people use technology.
The Northwest Regional Telehealth Resource Center (NRTRC) wanted to help people with little experience using technology. The Health Resources and Services Administration funds the NRTRC. The NRTRC created a class for digital navigators. They learned how to teach patients to use computers and smartphones and how to connect to the internet.
The digital navigator training has many helpful tools. It includes information on how to get connected to the internet. There are maps to help patients find public places for a telehealth visit if needed.
Telehealth training for digital navigators helps them improve the way they teach people about telehealth tools.
Telehealth training for digital navigators helps them improve the way they teach people about telehealth tools. Digital navigators can play an important role in helping people use telehealth.