What should providers do if technology fails during a Telehealth session?

When technology fails during a Telehealth session, having contingency plans such as phone consultations is essential for maintaining continuity of care and ensuring that the patient receives the support they need. Telehealth relies heavily on technology, and issues can arise unexpectedly, such as internet outages or software malfunctions.

By having established backup plans, providers can quickly shift the consultation to another format, such as a phone call, without significant disruption to the patient's care or experience. This approach demonstrates professionalism and a commitment to patient health, allowing the session to continue in a different modality that can still meet the veteran's needs.

In contrast, canceling the appointment altogether may result in unnecessary delays in care, while ignoring the issue undermines the quality and effectiveness of the session. Additionally, while asking the veteran to troubleshoot their device may seem helpful, it can place an undue burden on the patient and prolong the issue without providing a reliable solution. Overall, having contingency plans is the most effective and responsive course of action in the event of technology failure during a Telehealth session.