"Four I" Framework for Telehealth Optimization in Congregate Care Communities

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Health Informatics
• Public Health

Background:

• Congregate care communities (CCC) face challenges with consistent telehealth workflows.
• Telehealth offers innovative care models for CCC residents.
• Barriers to telehealth implementation in CCC need systematic solutions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose and develop a framework for implementing age-inclusive telehealth workflows in CCC.
• To address administrative and staff barriers in telehealth adoption within CCC.

Main Methods:

• Conducted a statewide survey of CCC administrators and staff on telehealth barriers.
• Assessed CCC strengths, needs, and goals through surveys, virtual meetings, and site visits.
• Collaborated with CCC partners to develop a tailored telehealth optimization framework.

Main Results:

• Developed the "Four I" Framework (Initiate, Integrate, Incentivize, Inspire) for telehealth optimization in CCC.
• The framework includes tiered goals and interventions for program implementation.
• Successfully collaborated with diverse CCC, including those serving neurodevelopmental disabilities and the elderly.

Conclusions:

• The "Four I" Framework provides a structured approach to assess telehealth readiness and implement workflows in CCC.
• Further development and collaboration are planned to optimize telehealth programs in CCC.
• This framework supports age-inclusive telehealth implementation, enhancing care delivery in congregate settings.