The Questions You Must Be Asking Providers

Being offered telehealth jobs is an exciting moment in your career as a healthcare specialist. But have you assessed whether the job offer is right for you?

You’re right to be feeling super pleased – telehealth jobs could be just what you need, and now is the best time to find them.

But there are a few factors you must consider before you agree to a job offer if you want to hit the ground running in a role that suits your needs and lifestyle.

Here, we’re going to show you all the points you may not have considered before, so that you can make a positive leap forward in your telehealth career.

Why Telehealth Jobs Are a Fabulous Career Move

Telehealth holds a host of benefits for healthcare professionals that deliver more interesting work, greater control over your schedule, and a better quality of life. The most attractive benefits that see healthcare professionals switching from on-site work to telehealth include:

• The ability to augment your schedule and cut back hours in brick-and-mortar facilities without sacrificing financial gains
• A greater reach of patients, working in multiple states from one location (subject to licensure)
• Making your own schedule, working time zones to your financial and personal advantage
• Greater control over how much you intend to earn, and when you choose to earn it

Whether you want to gain freedom and flexibility in your schedule, or increase your income, working in telehealth may be a good option for you.

7 Questions to Ask Before Accepting a Telehealth Job Offer

While telehealth offers many personal and professional benefits, you must be sure that the job you are offered suits your requirements and career goals. Here are seven questions you must ask to discover the perfect telehealth job for you:

1.     How Does the Provider Work?

You first must ‘vet’ the company you’re considering working with. Testimonials from past and present telehealth clinicians will give you a good insight into what the company is like to work with, or any red flags to consider. Also evaluate:

• Any fields of expertise that will help you advance your career
• State-by-state practice regulations, and that they adhere to them
• Their clinical decision-making framework, as well as clear protocols and policies for risk management, documentation, and medication administration

Ensure their values and mission align with your own for a long-standing partnership.

2.     Do Shift Requirements Match Your Lifestyle Needs?

The company may require a minimal number of hours per week or month – can you achieve this? Ensure the company’s hours of operation or workload requirements do not clash with your needs. Also get clarity on their procedures for last-minute appointments, and how much notice you’ll receive.

3.     How Will You Be Paid?

Some pay per consult, whereas others pay an hourly rate. Which is best for you will vary. If financial goals are high in your priority, then this is of particular importance, especially considering the next question…

4.     How Many Patients Does the Company Service?

Checking how many patients you will be expected to see will help you understand how busy you may be. It will also help you ensure the pay structure works for you. For example, if patient volumes are low, an hourly rate may be better. If volumes are high and you’re highly productive, then a per-consult structure will work better.

5.     How Will You Provide Care?

There are two different ways you may provide care in telehealth:

• Synchronous – real-time care via live consultations through a secure platform, or via phone
• Asynchronous – where medical details or data are sent to you for diagnosis and authorization (you may be in more contact with professionals as opposed to patients)

Always check how much support – both immediate and ongoing – you will receive from the provider, and how much training you will receive if needed.

6.     Is the Platform Easy to Use?

Different companies use different platforms. Is the company’s one you feel confident in or have experience with already? If not, what training will be provided, and how easy will it be for you to navigate? This is important as it will impact your productivity and enjoyability.

7.     Are You Protected?

You must consider the company’s legal protections and regulatory adherence. They should provide some level of liability protection within your scope of practice. Other cover may vary depending on individual state requirements.

You Know What to Ask – Now Here’s How to Find the Best Telehealth Jobs

These questions will help you determine which telehealth jobs suit you personally, and your career goals professionally. To access a portfolio of opportunities in telehealth, search the Telehealth Gigs jobs board now.