Access to health care is a universal right that must be available to all individuals, regardless of their background. However, there are still significant disparities in access to services, particularly among marginalized populations and underserved communities. To bridge this gap and ensure equitable health outcomes, it is crucial to focus on achieving inclusivity in health care delivery. Telemedicine has gained increasing prominence as a promising solution to address these disparities.
By leveraging the potential of telehealth, providers can reduce costs and increase availability of services, while patients can receive quality care regardless of their area of residence. Moreover, telehealth solutions may include accessibility features, such as screen readers, closed captioning, and alternative communication methods, to accommodate individuals with disabilities and allow immunocompromised or severely ill patients to receive consultations from the comfort and safety of their homes.
To achieve optimal inclusivity through telehealth, it is crucial to understand the unique challenges faced by diverse communities and tailor the solutions accordingly. The 1-hour webinar, hosted by WHO/Europe’s data and digital health team via Zoom, will bring together a panel of experts who have experience in the use of telehealth as a part of the digital transformation of health care, and will share insights on best practices and lessons learned.