Tele-Health Technology

Major: Tele-Health Technology

Overview: The Tele-Health Technology program trains students to support and implement remote healthcare services using digital technologies. This major focuses on telemedicine platforms, remote patient monitoring, health data management, and compliance with healthcare regulations. Graduates are prepared for careers in hospitals, clinics, health IT companies, and telehealth service providers.

Key Learning Objectives:

• Understand the fundamentals of telemedicine and digital health platforms.
• Develop skills in operating telehealth software, remote monitoring devices, and electronic health records (EHR) systems.
• Learn techniques for secure health data transmission, patient privacy, and cybersecurity.
• Explore telehealth regulations, ethical considerations, and best practices.
• Gain hands-on experience with telehealth equipment and troubleshooting.

Core Courses:

1. Introduction to Tele-Health and Digital Health

   • Overview of telemedicine, its applications, and the role of technology in modern healthcare.

2. Telemedicine Platforms and Software

   • Training on telehealth platforms, video conferencing tools, and EHR integration.

3. Remote Patient Monitoring

   • Use of wearable devices and IoT for tracking vital signs (e.g., blood pressure, glucose levels).

4. Health Data Privacy and Security

   • Principles of data security, compliance with healthcare regulations (e.g., HIPAA, GDPR), and ethical handling of patient information.

5. Telehealth in Chronic Disease Management

   • Focus on managing chronic conditions remotely, such as diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease.

6. Emergency Telemedicine and Triage

   • Remote assessment and response protocols for emergency situations.

7. Mobile Health (mHealth) Applications

   • Development and use of mobile health applications for patient care.

8. Internship/Practicum

   • Hands-on experience in hospitals, clinics, or telehealth companies.

9. Capstone Project in Tele-Health Technology

   • Comprehensive project applying skills in telehealth system implementation, remote monitoring, or data management.

Assessment Methods:

• Simulated telehealth consultations.
• Projects on secure health data management.
• Internship evaluations and reports.
• Capstone projects addressing telehealth challenges (e.g., accessibility, data security).

Recommended Resources:

• "Telemedicine and Telehealth: Technology-Enabled Health Care" by Rashid L. Bashshur.
• "Handbook of Telehealth and Telemedicine" by Richard Wootton.
• Guidelines from the World Health Organization (WHO) and American Telemedicine Association (ATA).
• Online courses on telehealth platforms and cybersecurity in healthcare.

Prerequisites:

• Basic IT skills and interest in healthcare technology.
• Knowledge of healthcare systems and medical terminology is beneficial.

Duration:

• Typically 1–2 years for a certificate or associate degree.
• 4 years for a bachelor’s degree in Health Informatics or Telemedicine Technology.

Certifications:

Graduates can pursue certifications such as:

• Certified Telehealth Coordinator (CTC).
• Certified Healthcare Technology Specialist (CHTS).
• HIPAA Compliance Certification.

Career Paths:

1. Telehealth Technician

   • Operate and maintain telehealth equipment in hospitals or clinics.

2. Remote Patient Monitoring Specialist

   • Monitor patients’ vital signs and health data remotely.

3. Telehealth Coordinator

   • Manage telehealth programs and coordinate virtual care services.

4. Health IT Support Specialist

   • Provide technical support for telehealth software and hardware.

5. Telehealth Educator

   • Train healthcare providers and patients on using telehealth technologies.

6. Telemedicine Consultant

   • Advise healthcare organizations on implementing telehealth solutions.

7. Mobile Health Developer

   • Develop and maintain mobile health applications for patient care.

Why This Major?

• Growing Demand: Telehealth is expanding rapidly, creating a high demand for skilled technicians.
• Impactful Work: Contribute to accessible and efficient healthcare delivery, especially in rural or underserved areas.
• Tech-Driven Career: Combine healthcare and technology skills in a dynamic and evolving field.
• Flexible Opportunities: Careers in hospitals, clinics, tech companies, and remote work settings.