Georgia Memory Net and Telehealth

Due to the impact of the pandemic, teleheath is now playing a much more prominent role in healthcare delivery.

Due to the impact of the pandemic, telehealth is now playing a much more prominent role in healthcare delivery. Although virtual visits have leveled off from their spring-time peak, telehealth is poised to maintain a steady, long-term presence in healthcare. As we look towards the future, Georgia Memory Net sees telehealth as a reliable solution for both managing exposure to Covid-19 and expanding access to the network for patients across Georgia.

To expand the telehealth footprint of GMN, the Memory Assessment Clinics must first have their telehealth operations in place. The Macon MAC in particular has made efforts to expand their telehealth program. Since July, over half of visits in Macon have been virtual. Although they have encountered barriers, they continue to find solutions that keep telehealth as an option for patients moving forward. The staff in Macon have found that in the context of Georgia Memory Net, not only do virtual visits allow both clinic and patients to stay safe, but they provide added flexibility for the timing of testing, follow ups, and caregiver conversations.

Another necessary component of expanding telehealth is reducing technology barriers for patients who do not have access to a device or an internet connection.  Georgia Memory Net is exploring programs to help expand access to patients that may not have the resources necessary for a telehealth visit. GMN is partnering with both the Department of Aging Services and the Department of Public Health to create telehealth visit opportunities for patients who lack internet connectivity by placing devices in underserved areas and developing resources to connect patients with those devices. By creating these access points, GMN aims to increase access for patients and their families and further the program’s mission.