Getting started: Integrating telehealth into a substance use disorder practice
Creating a practice that leverages telehealth to provide substance use disorder (SUD) treatment will expand access to needed services within the community.
On this page:
Benefits of using telehealth for SUD treatment
Telehealth can be used to treat individuals with SUD. Benefits may include:
- Expanded access to care.
- Increased privacy.
- Reduced need for travel.
- Decreased stigma.
Deciding to use telehealth for SUD treatment
The practice design and treatment approach will be unique to each patient; however, there are a number of key components to consider in the development of a successful telehealth practice for SUD. You should tailor telehealth services to the needs of each patient, which may also include in-person visits.
Before you begin to use telehealth to provide SUD treatment, it is important to consider:
- Which telehealth services to provide.
- Laws related to prescribing controlled substances via telehealth.
- Information technology needs.
- Patient privacy considerations.
Using telehealth to integrate SUD services
The integration of SUD treatment through telehealth in various practice types and facilities will increase care integration. Below are three key integration models to consider:
- Primary care. Integrating SUD services into primary care may improve access and care coordination.
- Specialty clinics. Telehealth can be used for treatment in specialty SUD clinics such as opioid treatment programs, residential treatment programs, and outpatient clinics. Telehealth may increase engagement and help providers virtually connect with individuals who are unable to receive in-person treatment.
- Community organizations. Telehealth can be a tool to build relationships with community partners, helping to increase access to care while addressing social determinants of health, such as transportation, food security, employment, and education.
Technology investment
Telehealth for delivering SUD care may require numerous telehealth technologies. A successful practice must align the technology with each patient's individual needs.
- Videoconferencing. This is the most commonly used method for telehealth and SUD treatment. It is important that the selected platform is HIPAA-compliant and protects patient confidentiality. Additionally, you will want to choose a telehealth platform that interfaces with your electronic health record (EHR) system.
- Audio visits. This can be used for patients who do not consent to a video visit or do not have adequate broadband to support video. Audio visits may be an option for counseling and for prescribing some medications.
- Other telehealth tools. Technologies that are available for SUD treatment include remote monitoring technology and mobile phone applications. The decision whether to use these tools should be considered based on the individual’s needs and treatment plan.
Staff roles and responsibilities
The practice should have staff designated to manage the workflow and facilitate telehealth encounters. Each staff member plays a significant role in the success of the practice:
- Assigned responsibilities. Staff should have designated roles (for example, patient assessment, care coordination, client screening and intake) and work as a team to avoid disruption or oversights.
- Support. Additionally, staff should have access to supportive resources, such as ongoing training and processes to facilitate evaluation and ongoing improvement.
Policies and procedures
It is critical to understand Federal and State laws and policies and keep your procedures up to date. This includes policies related to:
- Informed consent
- HIPAA
- Prescribing controlled substances via telehealth
- Licensure requirements
More information:
Best Practice Guide for Privacy and Security for Telehealth — Health Resources and Services Administration
Best Practice Guide for Telehealth for Behavioral Health — Health Resources and Services Administration
Legal considerations — Health Resources and Services Administration
Telehealth Privacy Tips for Providers (PDF) — Health Resources and Services Administration
Understanding telehealth technology options — Health Resources and Services Administration
Protecting Health Information: Telehealth — Center for Excellence for Protected Health Information
Behavioral Health — Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology
Substance Use Confidentiality Regulations — Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration
Telehealth for the Treatment of Serious Mental Illness and Substance Use Disorders — Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration