Looking ahead, select one area of the current National Patient Safety Goals program and make a prediction as to what might change in that area based on technological or other advancements. Consider patient identification standards, communication processes, and infection control protocols, among others.
You are required to use and cite a minimum of two references to support your response.
Solution
In the near future, the landscape of telehealth communications is poised for a remarkable transformation, driven by advancements in technology and a deepening understanding of patient needs. Imagine a world where your healthcare interactions, whether through video calls or chat messages, are seamless, efficient, and tailored to your unique situation. As you log into your telehealth platform for an appointment, you’re greeted not just by a familiar face on the screen, but by a system that instantly recognizes you. Instead of having to confirm your identity by repeating personal details, sophisticated biometric verification, like a quick facial recognition scan, confirms that you are indeed who you say you are. This innovation not only enhances security but also provides peace of mind, knowing that the provider is engaging with the right patient from the very beginning (Ciurkot, 2025). During your consultation, you notice the healthcare provider seamlessly interacting with an array of tools that streamline the visit. They have access to your medical history, medications, and even specialists’ notes, all at their fingertips. Thanks to advanced integration with electronic health records (EHR), information flows freely among all members of your care team. This holistic view of your health empowers your provider to make informed decisions instantly, enhancing the quality of care you receive.
As the conversation progresses, you’re pleasantly surprised when your provider effortlessly communicates complex medical terminology in simple language, ensuring that you fully understand your diagnosis and treatment plan. This is made possible by an AI-driven communication tool that analyzes patient backgrounds and needs in real-time, allowing for personalized dialogue that resonates with every individual. But the innovations don’t stop there. After your appointment, you receive a tailored follow-up message through the telehealth platform, equipped with educational resources specifically curated for your health conditions. Here, you find quick guides and videos that explain your treatment in detail, catering to your desire for more knowledge and control over your health. The system, designed with your needs in mind, recognizes that informed patients tend to achieve better outcomes and are less likely to misunderstand their care.
The platform’s ability to gather data from your interactions means that any communication challenges can be quickly identified and addressed. Providers continually refine their approach based on real-time feedback, which guarantees that your voice, along with those of other patients, shapes the future of healthcare delivery. As you schedule your next appointment, there’s a sense of assurance that comes with knowing that communication in telehealth will only improve. This digital landscape is being reshaped by advancements that prioritize safety, understanding, and connection. Once merely aspirations, now a reality in your healthcare journey. Welcome to the future of telehealth, where every interaction is a step toward better health outcomes.
References
Ciurkot, A. (2025, March 14). Biometrics: the cornerstone of healthcare’s digital transformation 2.0. NEC Today. https://nectoday.com/biometrics-the-cornerstone-of-healthcares-digital-transformation-2-0/
The Joint Commission. (2024). National Patient Safety Goals®. In National Patient Safety Goals®. https://www.jointcommission.org/-/media/tjc/documents/standards/national-patient-safety-goals/2025/tel-npsg-chapter.pdf