How to Implement A Teledentistry Solution Post COVID-19

Implementing A Teledentistry Solution

Now around three months into the pandemic, and the spread of COVID-19 has changed the world. Essential organizations, including dental practices like yours, have had to adapt as many of their services as possible to a remote setting.

Have you been successful in implementing teledentistry solutions so far?

What Is Teledentistry?

Teledentistry is the remote alternative to in-person care, utilizing technology so that professionals can work with their patients remotely. It’s the process of equipping dental staff with the right technologies to support communication and collaboration in the effort to provide dental care for patients.

Teledentistry is particularly important right now because it allows you to maintain social distance without entirely ceasing the vital services your organization delivers.

Teledentistry And HIPAA

As with any technology in the healthcare sector, a key consideration is being in compliance. Whereas telehealth was conventionally limited to providing care to those in rural facilities, the guidelines have been altered in light of COVID-19.

On March 16, 2020, telehealth services for Medicare beneficiaries were expanded, and a day later, the HSS Office for Civil Rights announced that they will be relaxing their stance on HIPAA compliance related to teledentistry services (and telehealth as a whole).

Currently, any non-public facing remote communication product is considered compliant for telehealth purposes, so long as you’re still implementing reasonable safeguards to protect patient information.

Teledentistry In Action

There is a range of services and solutions available to both dental practices and dental patients that are hoping to incorporate technology into the process:

• Remote Care: Dental staff can now communicate with patients remotely, performing preventative care and screenings over the Internet, reducing in-office appointments to prioritize those with the greatest need to see the dentist in person.
• Empowered Patients: Patients can download apps that allow them to find and connect with dentists in their area, providing a more seamless process between screenings and appointments.
• Documentation Management: Teledentistry solutions allow dental staffs to send and receive critical forms to and from patients over modern, mobile platforms

If you need expert assistance finding the right teledentistry solution for your practice, don’t hesitate to get in touch. NOVA Computer Solutions is here to help general dentistry practices like yours find the best teledentistry software for their needs.

Click here to contact our team or call (703) 493-1796 today!