Program Overview
The Digital Inclusion Program for Older Adults is developing a training and support program to help older adults make effective and appropriate use of telehealth technology. We believe that telehealth can be particularly beneficial to the older adults we serve by addressing mobility challenges, improving patient-provider communication, and maximizing the value of in-person services.
Volunteer Position Overview
We are seeking a health care professional with experience working with older adults (doctor, nurse, medical social worker) to help us shape this program. In particular, we are looking for assistance to:
· Understand patient perceptions of and concerns regarding telehealth.
· Understand and build program content to address technical impediments to use of telehealth (e.g. devices, device familiarity).
· Understand and build program content to address human impediments to use of telehealth (e.g. communication concerns, desire for personal contact).
· Develop program content to enhance patient-provider communication. E.g., help patient identify questions and goals for a telehealth session and help ensure that the provider understands and is responsive to those questions and goals, including follow up by patient and by provider.
· The program will also address related digital healthcare resources such as patient portals and on-line health information.
Expected Activities and Deliverables
· Conduct research on Telehealth Best Practices and existing resources to support older adults.
· Design and implement 2 focus groups with older adults to gain insight into their needs and perspectives.
· Provide a report from the focus groups, including learnings and proposed best practices.
· Collaborate with staff to design and test materials for future workshops and one-on-one trainings.
Other Details
· This is a hybrid volunteer position, and will require some in-office hours for meetings with staff, as well as meetings with clients at community partner locations.
