Conclusion As virtual and telehealth settings continue to play a prominent role in healthcare, effective communication becomes paramount for delivering optimal care and ensuring patient satisfaction. This chapter has explored the importance of communication in virtual and telehealth settings and provided valuable insights and strategies for healthcare professionals to navigate the unique challenges presented by these platforms. From building rapport without physical presence to tailoring communication strategies to virtual environments, healthcare professionals must continually adapt and refine their communication skills to provide patient- centered care. Overcoming technological barriers, promoting patient engagement, addressing cultural considerations, and upholding privacy and security are critical components of successful communication in virtual care. Additionally, evaluating the effectiveness of virtual communication through patient feedback and outcome measures enables continuous improvement in this rapidly evolving field. By embracing these communication strategies and considering the future directions and innovations in virtual care, healthcare professionals can optimize patient-provider interactions and enhance the delivery of healthcare services in virtual and telehealth settings.
Suggested Reading 1
Duane, J.-N., Blanch-Hartigan, D., Sanders, J. J., Caponigro, E., Robicheaux, E., Bernard, B., Podolski, M., & Ericson, J. (2022). Environmental considerations for effective telehealth encounters: A narrative review and implications for best practice. Telemedicine and E-Health, 28(3), 309–316. https:// doi.org/10.1089/tmj.2021.0074 2 Fang, J., Liu, Y., Lee, E., & Yadav, K. (2020). Telehealth solutions for in-hospital communication Journal of Emergency Medicine, 21(4). https://doi.org/10.5811/ westjem.2020.5.48165 3 with patients under isolation during COVID-19. Western Sabesan, S., Allen, D., Caldwell, P., Loh, P. K., Mozer, R., Komesaroff, P. A., Talman, P., Williams, M., Shaheen, N., & Grabinski, O. (2014). Practical aspects of telehealth: Doctor-patient relationship and Communication. Internal Medicine Journal, 44(1), 101–103. https://doi. org/10.1111/imj.12323 4 Weaver, M. S., Lukowski, J., Wichman, B., Navaneethan, H., Fisher, A. L., & Neumann, M. L. (2021). Human connection and technology connectivity: A systematic review of available telehealth survey instruments. Journal of Pain and Symptom Management, 61(5). https://doi.org/10.1016/j. jpainsymman.2020.10.010
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