Business Reporting and Research

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Business Reporting and Research

(Business Reporting and Research)

Discussion 1

Think of a time (in your current or past place of employment) when you created a business report. If you have never created a business report, think of a potential situation relevant to your field of study in which a business report would be needed. What kinds of Internet research could you do to gather relevant information? What search terms would you use?

Discussion 2

What is the purpose of an executive summary? What items need to be included in an executive summary?

Student’s reply

I was a project manager at the time I wrote the business report. My team was implementing a technology known as Optical Character Recognition (OCR). OCR detects words on pages and converts them into electronic fields for other computer systems to ingest. The business area that was requesting the implementation of OCR wanted the OCR software to perform with 100% accuracy. The IT team felt this was unreasonable so I began doing some internet research around industry standards to discuss a reasonable expectation with the business area. I searched for terms like “OCR”, “OCR gold standard” and “OCR accuracy” and learned 65-75% accuracy was a more realistic target.

Requirement: I need two totally different short answers for each question (Total 6 answers)

(Business Reporting and Research)

Discussion 1 – Answer 1:
In my role as a healthcare administrator, I once needed to create a business report analyzing patient no-show rates and their impact on revenue. Internet research was crucial to find best practices for reducing no-show rates. I searched terms like “reducing patient no-shows,” “appointment reminder systems,” and “healthcare scheduling strategies” to identify effective solutions and industry benchmarks.

Discussion 1 – Answer 2:
As a nursing student, I envisioned a situation where I would need to prepare a business report evaluating the cost-effectiveness of telehealth services in rural areas. For research, I could look up “telehealth cost-benefit analysis,” “telehealth adoption in rural communities,” and “impact of telehealth on patient outcomes” to gather data and case studies to support the report.

Discussion 2 – Answer 1:
An executive summary serves to provide a concise overview of a report for decision-makers who may not have time to read the entire document. It should include the purpose of the report, key findings, recommendations, and any critical data supporting conclusions, allowing readers to quickly grasp the report’s value.

Discussion 2 – Answer 2:
The purpose of an executive summary is to summarize the main points of a report clearly and persuasively, enabling busy stakeholders to make informed decisions. It should include the report’s objective, a summary of findings, the methodology used, and any actionable recommendations or conclusions drawn.

Student’s Reply – Feedback 1:
Your example demonstrates an effective use of internet research to set realistic expectations for stakeholders. Including terms like “OCR industry standards” could further refine the search to identify benchmark data from reliable sources.

Student’s Reply – Feedback 2:
Your research approach is sound and highlights the importance of managing expectations with evidence-based data. For added rigor, exploring terms like “OCR performance limitations” or “factors affecting OCR accuracy” might provide deeper insights into achievable outcomes.

 
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Challenges in Hazard Assessment

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Challenges in Hazard Assessment

(Challenges in Hazard Assessment)

Each question at least 2 to 3 body paragraphs.

1. Drawing on your current knowledge of an HVA, explain why a county assessment might be different from a city / borough one.

3. What are the complexities you are likely to encounter as you build an HVA based on the Liberty County information provided?

1. Drawing on your current knowledge of an HVA, explain why a county assessment might be different from a city/borough one.

A Hazard Vulnerability Assessment (HVA) is a critical tool used to identify potential threats and risks to a community, but the level at which it is conducted—whether at a county or city/borough level—can significantly impact the results and the approach taken. A county-wide assessment often encompasses a broader scope, considering the diverse range of municipalities, rural areas, and infrastructure spread across a larger geographical region. This scale requires the assessment to account for a wide variety of risks, including natural disasters, technological hazards, and human-made threats, which may affect different areas within the county in unique ways. For example, rural areas within the county might face different challenges compared to urbanized regions, such as limited access to healthcare facilities, while urban areas might need to focus on risks related to densely populated environments, such as transportation hazards or infrastructure failures.

In contrast, a city or borough assessment is more localized, which allows for a more focused evaluation of hazards specific to the urban environment. In these settings, higher population density, critical infrastructure, and public services such as schools and hospitals are concentrated in a smaller geographic area. A city’s HVA will more likely prioritize risks associated with dense traffic, large-scale events, or terrorism, while a borough might be concerned with risks linked to local crime rates or specific neighborhood infrastructure failures. Additionally, cities often have more detailed data and resources to pinpoint localized vulnerabilities, such as the safety of buildings in seismic zones or flood plains. In this way, the scale of the community influences the depth and type of risks identified in the assessment, as well as the specific planning and mitigation strategies that need to be developed.

(Challenges in Hazard Assessment)

3. What are the complexities you are likely to encounter as you build an HVA based on the Liberty County information provided?

Building an HVA for Liberty County presents several complexities due to its larger, more varied landscape compared to smaller municipalities. First, the diversity in geography and population density across the county means that different areas will face different hazards. For instance, rural parts of Liberty County may be more vulnerable to natural disasters like wildfires or floods due to the large expanse of undeveloped land, while more urbanized areas could be at greater risk from infrastructure failure, terrorist threats, or large-scale public health emergencies. This necessitates a more granular approach to risk assessment, with detailed data collection for both rural and urban areas, to ensure that all potential threats are adequately addressed. Additionally, each community within the county may have its own unique vulnerabilities, requiring tailored risk management strategies that align with local capabilities and resources.

Another significant challenge is coordinating and collecting data from multiple jurisdictions within the county. Liberty County may have various agencies, departments, and community organizations that each maintain their own records of hazards, assets, and vulnerabilities. Integrating this information into a cohesive HVA can be difficult, especially if different entities use different data standards, risk metrics, or priorities. Furthermore, the county may have limited resources or discrepancies in the level of preparedness across different communities. For example, a small rural town may lack the infrastructure or funding to adequately assess and address local vulnerabilities, while a larger city within the county might have access to advanced technology and resources. Bridging these gaps while ensuring a comprehensive and equitable assessment of the entire county’s hazards is a complex yet crucial part of the process. Lastly, Liberty County’s diverse population and varying levels of socioeconomic resources could result in differences in how vulnerabilities are experienced and mitigated, requiring consideration of equity in risk assessments and response planning.

 
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Tragic Figures in Antigone

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Tragic Figures in Antigone

(Tragic Figures in Antigone)

Discussion Board 2: Greek TragedyAfter reading the scene from Sophocles’ Antigone and the material on Aristotle’s The poetics, answer the following questions:

1. What are the three main criteria for what Aristotle says makes a “tragic figure,” or “tragic hero” in drama?

Both Creon and Antigone are both victims of great tragedy. Who is the “tragic figure” in this play: Antigone or Creon? If you do a quick google search, many sources will tell you that Creon is the tragic hero. But is there a case for Antigone?

2. What examples from the play prove that Antigone also arguably meets the criteria of a tragic Hero?

  1. Aristotle’s Criteria for a Tragic Hero:

In The Poetics, Aristotle outlines three main criteria for a tragic hero:

  • Hamartia (Flaw or Error): The tragic hero has a flaw or makes an error in judgment that leads to their downfall.
  • Peripeteia (Reversal of Fortune): The hero experiences a dramatic reversal of fortune, moving from a state of happiness or power to one of suffering or destruction due to their own actions.
  • Anagnorisis (Recognition or Discovery): The hero comes to a moment of recognition, where they understand their flaw or mistake, often too late to prevent their tragic end.

According to Aristotle, these elements create the emotional response of catharsis in the audience—pity and fear—which makes tragedy a powerful form of drama.

  1. Who is the Tragic Figure in Antigone—Creon or Antigone?

While many sources claim Creon as the tragic hero of Antigone, there is also a strong case to be made for Antigone herself fitting the criteria of a tragic hero.

Antigone as a Tragic Hero:

  • Hamartia (Flaw or Error): Antigone’s tragic flaw could be seen as her unyielding loyalty to her family and the gods. Her determination to bury her brother Polynices, despite the king’s decree, leads to her arrest and eventual death. She is unwavering in her belief that divine law supersedes human law.
  • Peripeteia (Reversal of Fortune): Antigone begins the play determined and confident, ready to fulfill what she sees as her duty to her brother and to the gods. However, this confidence leads to her arrest by Creon and a slow, painful death by entombment. The reversal occurs when her commitment to what she believes is right directly leads to her destruction.
  • Anagnorisis (Recognition): Antigone doesn’t experience a typical recognition moment like Creon, but she does show a certain acceptance of her fate. Her tragic recognition comes when she understands that her actions, though justified in her eyes, have condemned her to death, yet she accepts this willingly as part of fulfilling her moral duty.

Thus, while Creon may seem to fulfill these criteria as the ruler whose decisions lead to the destruction of his family and his downfall, Antigone’s tragic flaw, the reversal of her fortune, and her eventual acceptance of her fate make her a strong contender for the tragic hero role.

Conclusion:

Both Creon and Antigone can be seen as tragic figures in Sophocles’ Antigone, but Antigone arguably fulfills the criteria of a tragic hero as laid out by Aristotle. Her steadfast determination to honor divine law over earthly decrees leads to her downfall, making her a classic example of a tragic figure who suffers due to her commitment to a principle.

 
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Transparency Shapes Employee Perceptions

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Transparency Shapes Employee Perceptions

(Transparency Shapes Employee Perceptions)

Given that an organization is reliant on employees to achieve its mission and objectives, there would appear to be value in organizational transparency. If employees perceive that leaders and managers are being transparent, their attitude toward work and overall efficiency will be better, even if they do not agree with the leaders and managers decisions. However, if employees perceive or discover that organizational leaders and managers have not been transparent, their efforts may reflect a less caring attitude. In such cases, there may not be any difference between employee perception and fact.

Consider the aforementioned aspects, and using the University online library resources, research the importance of employee attitudes and perception.

Then, respond to the following:

  • How important are employee attitudes and emotions as well as transparency in shaping organizational behavior?
  • Elaborate on how employee perceptions shape organizational behavior. Are perceptions and reality always the same?

By the due date assigned, post your response to the appropriate Discussion Area. Through the end of the module, review and comment on at least two peers’ responses.

Write your initial response in 300-500 words. Your response should be thorough and address all components of the discussion question in detail, include citations of all sources, where needed, according to the APA Style, and demonstrate accurate spelling, grammar, and punctuation

The Role of Transparency in Shaping Employee Perceptions and Organizational Behavior

Organizational transparency is a cornerstone of trust, accountability, and employee engagement. When leaders are transparent, employees are more likely to feel valued and respected, which positively impacts their attitudes and emotions. Employee attitudes—encompassing their feelings, beliefs, and values about their work—play a critical role in shaping organizational behavior. These attitudes influence how employees interact with each other, approach tasks, and perceive the organization’s goals and culture.

Transparency serves as a catalyst for positive employee perceptions. Employees who perceive their leaders as transparent are more likely to trust organizational decisions, even if they disagree with them. For example, sharing the rationale behind a major restructuring or a budget cut can mitigate feelings of uncertainty or resentment among employees. By contrast, a lack of transparency can lead to mistrust, reduced morale, and disengagement. Research shows that transparency correlates with higher job satisfaction and lower turnover rates (Kerns, 2018). It also encourages open communication and collaboration, both of which are crucial for achieving organizational objectives.

Employee perceptions are powerful drivers of organizational behavior. If employees believe that they are part of an ethical, inclusive, and transparent organization, they are more likely to adopt behaviors that align with these values. This includes increased commitment, cooperation, and innovation. Conversely, negative perceptions, such as a belief that the organization is withholding information or being unfair, can lead to counterproductive work behavior, including apathy, absenteeism, or even sabotage.

Perception and reality, however, are not always the same. Perception is shaped by personal experiences, biases, and available information. For instance, an employee might perceive favoritism in the promotion process, even if the organization follows a merit-based policy. In such cases, it becomes essential for leaders to address the gap between perception and reality through clear communication and consistent actions. Transparency minimizes misunderstandings by aligning employee perceptions more closely with organizational reality.

In conclusion, transparency and positive employee attitudes are pivotal to fostering a healthy organizational culture. Leaders must prioritize transparent communication to ensure employees feel informed and valued, which, in turn, enhances organizational behavior. As employees are the backbone of any organization, aligning their perceptions with reality through transparent practices is not just beneficial—it is indispensable for long-term success.

References

Kerns, C. D. (2018). Building Trust in the Workplace: Strategies for Effective Leadership and Organizational Success. Journal of Organizational Culture, Communications and Conflict, 22(2), 1-14.

 
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Plea Bargaining: Purpose & Critique

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Plea Bargaining: Purpose & Critique

(Plea Bargaining: Purpose & Critique)

answer the discussion question with a minimum of 150 words. Please use apa format for works cited. Then respond to student a and b response to the question with a minimum of 50 words.

question: at purpose does plea bargaining serve for the defense? For the prosecution? Given the criticism leveled against plea bargaining, do you believe that it is an acceptable practice?

STUDENT A: Plea Bargaining is useful to both the defendant and the prosecution. Firstly, according to Frank Schmalleger’s Criminal Justice Today, An Introductory Text for the 21st Century (pg. 322) a plea bargaining is “the process of negotiating an agreement among the defendant, the prosecutor, and the court as to an appropriate sentence. . . reduces the time required for the resolution of a criminal case.” This practice allows the necessary time that it typically takes for a court case to conclude and reduces it significantly. Allowing another case to be heard and does not waste both the jury’s and the judge’s time with a case that can be easily concluded. Since, the majority of those convicted of a crime that receives a plea bargain either has, poor evidence or there is a lot of evidence stacked against them. Not to mention this allows those who are convicted to have a shorter sentence. Regardless of the criticism of plea bargaining, I still think that the practice should be still used since it saves time for everyone in the courtroom. What do you think?

STUDENT B: A plea bargaining is an arrangement between a prosecutor and defense in which the suspect pleads guilty to a lesser sentence. The plea bargain is a quicker process for the courts and allow both the prosecutor and defense from going to trial. The purpose of a plea bargain for the defense is so that they could receive a lighter sentence instead of going to trial and getting the maximum sentence. It sometimes reduces the charges, so that instead of them getting charged with rape they will get charged with assault instead. Like I stated earlier it is a quicker process so the defendant doesn’t have to keep waiting and they can go one with their lives. For Prosecutors plea bargaining saves them the time and money that they will need in order to prepare for trial. I think plea bargaining is a great system for those who are guilty and want to save time and also get a lighter sentence. A trial cost money so a plea bargain helps saves a lot of money for the prosecutor, defender, and the courts. Yes it can be bad for someone who is not guilty and might take it so that they don’t have to waste their money and take their chances going to court. If the defendant is really guilty i think this would be their best chance of getting a lighter sentence.

 
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Culture’s Influence Through Media

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Culture’s Influence Through Media

(Culture’s Influence Through Media)

Discussion Board

Culture and Subculture

300-500 words;

 

Primary Task Response: Within the Discussion Board area, write 300-500 words that respond to the following questions with your thoughts, ideas, and comments. This will be the foundation for future discussions by your classmates. Be substantive and clear, and use examples to reinforce your ideas.

Unit 2 has discussed how sociologists identify cultures and subcultures, and how both have unique components—language, values, norms (behaviors), and food. For this Discussion Board, you will dive deeper into culture by completing the following:

  1. Using the textbook located on your Bookshelf, define each of the four components of culture—language, values, norms (behaviors), and food. Be sure to paraphrase and cite your sources; do not copy and paste from the textbook.
  2. Next, choose a popular television show (examples include The Simpsons, The Big Bang Theory, The Goldbergs, and Orange is the New Black) or a movie you have enjoyed.
    • For your chosen show or movie, provide specific examples for each component of culture (language, values, norms, and food) found within your show or movie. For example, in The Simpsons, language can be seen with the word “D’oh” and the phrase, “Don’t have a cow, man!”
    • Each TV show could be said to represent a subculture of mainstream society. How are each of the four components of culture (language, values, norms, and food) identified above different from or similar to what you would expect to see in mainstream American culture?
  3. Finally, choose 1 of the following theorists: Durkheim, Marx, or Cooley. What does your chosen theorist say about the role of culture in shaping human behavior?

This information is below in the Attachment Section :Using the textbook located on your Bookshelf, define each of the four components of culture—language, values, norms (behaviors), and food. Be sure to paraphrase and cite your sources; do not copy and paste from the textbook.

 
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Understanding Augmented Reality

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Understanding Augmented Reality (AR)

(Understanding Augmented Reality)

For This assignment, you are to write a 2 page report on Augmented Reality. Explain What AR is and list a few examples of how its being used. Also, you will need to find two examples of AR projects and provided a summary. Please stick to scholarly sources and be sure to cite in APA format. (Note** If you find a project that you really find interesting, but it blends over into mixed or virtual reality instead of pure AR, its still fine to use, just be sure to explain).

Next we will focus on Augmented Reality. We will have to touch on virtual reality and mixed reality a bit as well as there is a lot of overlap in the technologies. Instead of posting a bunch of reading materials, I have posted few video links to check out. The AR article from last week ties in well with a few definitions and examples of Howit can be used in an educational context. If you didn’t get a chance to look at it last week or can’t stream the videos, be sure to take a look instead. Page 2 of the document shows a continuum of mixed reality between the virtual and the real.

For this topic, check out some of the videos below, and then complete the homework assignment posted in the Homework tab that will require a little more research (Details listed in the HW link). The homework will be due Monday June 25th . Transcripts are available by clicking on the ellipsis icon above the subscribe button. It will give you an option to open the transcript.

What’s the Difference between Virtual Reality, Mixed Reality and Augmented Reality?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CouwkAoR0Lg

VR AR MR What’s It All Mean?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2RK881UGjsA

Will virtual and augmented reality move us into the knowledge age? | TEDx

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2FA-IuDTMjE

Augmented Reality in 2018 / 2017 Year in Review

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kC7OlweCJ8I

Examples:

10 Unique Things You Can Do with Augmented Reality

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q83gKk5jbto

Augmented Reality – The Future of Building

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CRcKpl17JgY

Super Mario Bros Recreated as Life Size Augmented Reality Game

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QN95nNDtxjo

Understanding Augmented Reality (AR): Applications and Examples.

Introduction

  • Start by defining Augmented Reality (AR): Explain how AR overlays digital information, images, and interactive elements onto the real world. Mention that unlike Virtual Reality (VR), which immerses users in a fully digital environment, AR enhances the physical world by adding digital components.
  • Briefly mention Mixed Reality (MR), where physical and digital elements coexist and interact in real-time, combining aspects of both VR and AR.

What is AR and How is it Different?

  • AR integrates digital information into the physical world, allowing users to see both digital and real-world objects simultaneously.
  • Discuss the continuum of mixed reality, from pure reality to pure virtual environments, with AR lying between these extremes. Mention that MR is often considered a bridge between AR and VR, where digital elements interact with the physical environment in more sophisticated ways.

Current Uses of Augmented Reality

  • Education: AR in education allows interactive learning experiences, such as visualizing complex concepts in 3D (e.g., anatomy for medical students).
  • Retail: AR helps customers visualize products in their homes before purchase (e.g., IKEA’s AR app that places furniture in your living room).
  • Healthcare: Surgeons use AR for real-time guidance during procedures, overlaying digital visuals on patients’ bodies for more precise operations.

Examples of AR Projects

  1. Google Lens: This AR app allows users to scan real-world items and receive real-time information about them. For instance, users can point their phone camera at text in a foreign language to translate it instantly or scan a product to find where it’s sold online.
    • Summary: Google Lens uses AR to add layers of information to physical objects, making real-world learning and interaction seamless and convenient. This project demonstrates AR’s educational and practical utility, especially in language learning and shopping contexts.
  2. Microsoft HoloLens in Architecture: Microsoft’s HoloLens headset is used in architectural design, allowing architects and clients to visualize buildings at scale before construction. This headset falls under AR and MR, as users can see the room or environment around them while interacting with 3D building models.
    • Summary: HoloLens merges real-world spaces with digital architectural models, enabling collaborative design reviews and reducing potential design flaws before building. This project exemplifies AR/MR in professional environments, particularly in enhancing design and construction processes.

Conclusion

  • Summarize AR’s versatility in various fields, from education to healthcare and retail, showcasing its potential to transform experiences.
  • Mention the expected growth of AR, which will likely bring more interactive and immersive applications into everyday life.
  • Conclude with a note on the blending of VR, AR, and MR as emerging technologies that will increasingly shape how we interact with information, learn, and engage with our environments.

References

  • Use APA style citations to reference any articles, books, or scholarly sources you used for research.
  • Since you’re working from videos as well, you can include these sources in the references, formatting them according to APA guidelines for audiovisual materials.
 
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Evolution of Health Systems

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Evolution of Health Systems

(Evolution of Health Systems)

medical sociology discussion 2

These are 2 separate questions so please to not put them together, also each question should be at least 200 words each.

1. Describe how medical and social ideas about mental illness have evolved over time.

2. If you were the leader of a country, why would you want to ensure that your citizens had adequate health care? Which of the models covered in the textbook would you want for your country? Explain your answer. Please refer to the textbook The Sociology of Health, Illness, and Health Care: A Critical Approach by Rose Weitz

Please do not use journals/articles for references. Use references that are verifiable by clicking on the link and not something that has to be paid for in order to check references.

(Evolution of Health Systems)

1. Describe how medical and social ideas about mental illness have evolved over time.

The understanding of mental illness has undergone significant transformations over the centuries, moving from supernatural explanations to more scientific and sociological interpretations. In early history, mental illness was often seen through a religious or spiritual lens. Ancient civilizations, such as the Greeks and Romans, viewed mental disorders as the result of divine punishment or demonic possession. These ideas persisted well into the Middle Ages, where mental illness was sometimes linked to witchcraft or moral failings, leading to cruel treatments like exorcisms or confinement in asylums.

During the Enlightenment period, the emergence of scientific thought began to shift perspectives. Figures like Philippe Pinel in France advocated for more humane treatment of the mentally ill, such as removing restraints and allowing patients to have more freedom. This was a step toward recognizing that mental illness could be a medical condition rather than a moral failing. By the 19th and early 20th centuries, the medical model of mental illness began to dominate. Theories such as those proposed by Sigmund Freud focused on psychological causes of mental illness, while the development of psychiatry as a medical field advanced diagnostic criteria and treatments, such as electroconvulsive therapy and psychotropic medications.

In the mid-20th century, the social model of mental illness gained traction, emphasizing the role of societal factors like poverty, inequality, and stigma in shaping the experience and treatment of mental illness. This perspective argued that mental illness cannot be fully understood without considering the broader social context. The deinstitutionalization movement of the 1960s and 1970s, which pushed for more community-based care, reflected this shift. Today, the understanding of mental illness is a complex intersection of biological, psychological, and social factors, with treatment approaches incorporating both medical and therapeutic interventions.

2. If you were the leader of a country, why would you want to ensure that your citizens had adequate health care? Which of the models covered in the textbook would you want for your country? Explain your answer.As a leader of a country, ensuring that citizens have access to adequate healthcare is essential for promoting the overall well-being of the population and fostering a productive, healthy society. Adequate healthcare ensures that all individuals, regardless of their socio-economic status, have the opportunity to receive necessary medical attention, preventing the spread of infectious diseases, reducing the burden of chronic conditions, and improving quality of life. Moreover, access to healthcare promotes social equity, as it helps to level the playing field between different socio-economic groups, ultimately reducing health disparities.

In terms of the model of healthcare, I would choose a universal health care system modeled on the Beveridge Model. This model, as described in The Sociology of Health, Illness, and Health Care: A Critical Approach by Rose Weitz, is where the government owns and operates most healthcare services. In this model, healthcare is financed through taxation, and the goal is to ensure that every citizen has access to healthcare services free at the point of use. This model aligns with the values of social justice and equity, providing a framework in which the government takes responsibility for the health of its people.

The Beveridge model has been successfully implemented in countries such as the United Kingdom, where the National Health Service (NHS) provides comprehensive care for all citizens. This approach allows for better control over healthcare costs and reduces administrative overhead compared to privatized systems. As a leader, I would prioritize the health and well-being of citizens as a fundamental right, which would be guaranteed through universal access to care. In a world where health disparities are often a result of systemic inequalities, adopting the Beveridge model would be an essential step toward creating a healthier, more equitable society for all citizens.

 
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Challenges in Telehealth Adoption

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Challenges in Telehealth Adoption

Question: Why has telehealth adoption taken so long in the health-care industry when Skype, cell phones, and other video conferencing applications have been used in personal and business interactions for decades?
(Challenges in Telehealth Adoption)
Challenges in Telehealth Adoption
The adoption of telehealth in the health care industry has faced a slower trajectory than many other sectors, despite the widespread availability and use of video conferencing technologies like Skype and cell phones for personal and business purposes. Several factors explain this delay, ranging from regulatory barriers to infrastructure challenges and concerns regarding patient privacy. By looking into the key reasons behind this delay, it becomes clear that the complexity of health care, unlike other industries, requires solutions that go beyond basic video conferencing tools.

Regulatory and Legal Barriers

One of the most significant barriers to telehealth adoption has been regulatory issues. Health care is a heavily regulated industry, with strict requirements to ensure patient safety, care standards, and confidentiality. In many countries, health care providers must comply with local, national, and even international regulations regarding licensing and practice. For example, a doctor in one state or country may not be allowed to provide telehealth services to a patient in another state or country without the proper licensing. This fragmented system of licensure has made it difficult for providers to offer telehealth services across regions.

Furthermore, telehealth must comply with privacy laws such as the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) in the United States. HIPAA sets stringent rules for the handling and transmission of patient information, including during telehealth interactions. Many consumer video conferencing tools do not meet these strict privacy standards, making their use in medical consultations risky. As a result, health care organizations have been hesitant to adopt technologies that could potentially expose them to legal liabilities.

Technology Infrastructure and Access

Another factor slowing down telehealth adoption is the technological infrastructure required to deliver quality care remotely. While video conferencing tools like Skype can handle casual conversations, telehealth often involves the sharing of sensitive and complex health data. Many telehealth services require high-quality video and audio, reliable internet connections, and the ability to integrate with electronic health record (EHR) systems. In some rural or underserved areas, patients may not have access to the high-speed internet needed for smooth video consultations.

Additionally, telehealth platforms need to be compatible with medical devices such as digital stethoscopes, otoscopes, or blood pressure monitors. These technologies allow health care providers to conduct thorough examinations remotely, ensuring patients receive the same standard of care they would in person. The lack of such integration in early video conferencing platforms slowed the development and widespread adoption of telehealth.

Provider and Patient Acceptance

Another reason for the slow adoption of telehealth in health care is the hesitation from both health care providers and patients. Many providers have been slow to embrace telehealth due to concerns about its effectiveness. Health care is traditionally seen as a hands-on profession, with physical examinations playing a key role in diagnosis and treatment. This mindset has created skepticism about the ability of telehealth to provide the same level of care.

Moreover, telehealth requires providers to adapt to new ways of interacting with patients, managing workflows, and documenting care. The transition to telehealth may require additional training, which some providers have been reluctant to undertake, particularly if they are uncertain about the long-term value of these services.

Patients, on the other hand, may also be hesitant to adopt telehealth, particularly older populations or those unfamiliar with technology. Concerns about the quality of care, trust in remote consultations, and the ability to navigate telehealth platforms have contributed to slower patient uptake.
(Challenges in Telehealth Adoption)

Financial and Reimbursement Issues

Financial and reimbursement challenges also contribute to the slow adoption of telehealth. Health care systems and providers need to be compensated for telehealth services just as they are for in-person visits. However, reimbursement policies for telehealth have historically been inconsistent. Some insurance providers and government programs have been slow to recognize telehealth as a reimbursable service, limiting its financial viability for many providers.

Before the COVID-19 pandemic, many telehealth services were either not covered or only partially covered by insurance, leading providers to favor in-person visits where reimbursement was more straightforward. The pandemic led to changes in these policies, with many insurers temporarily expanding coverage for telehealth, but the long-term sustainability of these changes remains uncertain.

Cultural and Workflow Shifts

Health care organizations have deeply entrenched workflows, and integrating telehealth requires significant changes to these established processes. Health care providers are accustomed to specific routines, including in-person patient interactions, physical examinations, and traditional documentation practices. Telehealth necessitates the rethinking of these processes, from appointment scheduling to follow-up care.

Moreover, health care culture places a strong emphasis on face-to-face interaction between patients and providers. This has been a fundamental aspect of medical care for centuries. Shifting to a model where care can be provided remotely challenges this deeply ingrained tradition and has met resistance from both patients and providers.

For some providers, telehealth represents an added burden to their already full schedules. Incorporating telehealth requires providers to learn new systems, change their workflow, and adopt new communication methods. Some health care professionals may also feel less confident about providing accurate diagnoses and treatments when physical examinations are not possible.

Privacy and Security Concerns

Privacy concerns are particularly critical in the health care sector, given the sensitive nature of medical data. The use of video conferencing tools must comply with stringent privacy and security requirements. Skype and other video conferencing tools are not designed to handle health information securely according to health care industry standards. Ensuring that patient information remains confidential during telehealth sessions requires specialized platforms that encrypt data and protect against unauthorized access.

Additionally, health care organizations must ensure that telehealth interactions are not vulnerable to cyberattacks, which could compromise patient information. As cyber threats have grown in recent years, security has become a significant concern for both patients and providers. This focus on privacy and security has slowed the adoption of telehealth, as organizations must invest in compliant and secure systems.

Pandemic Acceleration and Future Outlook

The COVID-19 pandemic was a turning point for telehealth. With in-person visits limited, many health care systems were forced to adopt telehealth solutions quickly. Temporary changes to reimbursement policies, relaxed licensing requirements, and improvements in telehealth platforms helped increase adoption. As a result, both providers and patients became more familiar with telehealth, and its potential for long-term use became more evident.

However, the question remains whether telehealth adoption will continue at the same pace post-pandemic. Health care organizations need to continue investing in the infrastructure, training, and regulatory compliance needed to make telehealth a sustainable part of the industry. Additionally, policymakers must work to create consistent and supportive frameworks for telehealth reimbursement and licensing to ensure its long-term viability.

Conclusion

Telehealth adoption has taken longer in the health care industry due to a combination of regulatory, financial, cultural, and technological barriers. Health care’s complex nature requires solutions that go beyond basic video conferencing tools like Skype, ensuring patient safety, privacy, and care quality. Although the COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the use of telehealth, ongoing efforts are necessary to overcome remaining challenges and ensure that telehealth becomes an integral part of the future of health care.
(Challenges in Telehealth Adoption)

References

  1. Regulatory and Legal Barriers:

American Medical Association (AMA). Telehealth in Practice. https://www.ama-assn.org/delivering-care/public-health/telehealth-practice

Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). Medicare Telemedicine Health Care Provider Fact Sheet. https://www.cms.gov/newsroom/fact-sheets/medicare-telemedicine-health-care-provider-fact-sheet

2. Technology Infrastructure and Access:

American Hospital Association (AHA). Telehealth: A Path to Virtual Integrated Care. https://www.aha.org/system/files/media/file/2020/07/telehealth-virtual-care-integrated-report-july-2020.pdf

World Health Organization (WHO). Telemedicine: Opportunities and Developments in Member States. https://www.who.int/goe/publications/goe_telemedicine_2010.pdf

3. Provider and Patient Acceptance:

Health Affairs. Telehealth: The Advantages And Barriers. https://www.healthaffairs.org/do/10.1377/hpb20200904.577561/full/

Journal of Medical Internet Research (JMIR). Barriers and Facilitators to Telemedicine: Can We Learn from the COVID-19 Pandemic? https://www.jmir.org/2020/11/e24021/

4. Financial and Reimbursement Issues:

The Commonwealth Fund. Telemedicine Payment Parity in Medicaid: What’s Next? https://www.commonwealthfund.org/blog/2021/telemedicine-payment-parity-medicaid-whats-next

American Medical Association (AMA). 50-state Survey: Establishment of a Patient-Physician Relationship Via Telemedicine. https://www.ama-assn.org/system/files/2020-11/telehealth-patient-physician-relationship.pdf

5. Cultural and Workflow Shifts:

McKinsey & Company. Telehealth: A Quarter-Trillion-Dollar Post-COVID-19 Reality? https://www.mckinsey.com/industries/healthcare-systems-and-services/our-insights/telehealth-a-quarter-trillion-dollar-post-covid-19-reality

American Journal of Managed Care (AJMC). Workflow Modifications for Telehealth: A Guide for the Frontline. https://www.ajmc.com/view/workflow-modifications-for-telehealth-a-guide-for-the-frontline

6. Privacy and Security Concerns:

HealthIT.gov. Telehealth Privacy and Security Tips. https://www.healthit.gov/faq/what-are-privacy-and-security-concerns-telehealth

National Institutes of Health (NIH). Telemedicine Privacy and Security Concerns and Risks: A Systematic Review. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33555422/

 
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Reaction paper Assignment

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Reaction paper Assignment
Reaction paper Assignment

REACTION PAPER INSTRUCTIONS:
READ these instructions FIRST AND EARLY IN THE SEMESTER – before submitting the Reaction Paper or Reaction Paper Discussion Assignments..
After reading this in its entirety, to submit the Reaction Paper and Reaction Paper Discussion Assignments – scroll down.

Your Reaction Paper must include a minimum of 500 words.

TO BE GRADED, you must submit your Reaction Paper by 6/10/18 TO BOTH the Reaction Paper Drop Box AND the Reaction Paper Discussion Board.

 

You will self-select each topic for your reaction papers from topics covered in course material and / or the course text.

All material paraphrased and / or quoted within the Reaction paper and Reaction Paper Discussion Forums (including material from the online course components and / or the course text) must be properly cited and referenced following APA 6.0. A Reference listing must be included at the end of the submitted Reaction Paper / Reaction Paper Discussion Submission that includes APA 6.0 references for all sources discussed in the submission (including the course text / online course material). NO MORE THAN 1 QUOTE MAY BE INCLUDED IN THIS REACTION PAPER. Paraphrase appropriately and cite / reference any source material discussed following APA 6.0 Guidelines. Use of any other formatting guideline (e.g., MLA, Chicago) will result in substantial GRADE REDUCTIONS! Detected cheating and / or plagiarism on assignments will result in grades of “F” per assignment and may result in further disciplinary action as identified within the Student Code of Conduct.

To complete the Reaction Paper, fully address how a particular topic that you have learned about through course material / the course text can be related to / help you discuss / explain / understand a personally relevant life experience of your own / another person personally, socially, professionally, with community activities, etc. As you write your Reaction Paper, be sure to name and describe, in your own words, the topic that you selected from course material / the text, being sure to include citations and related references for your paraphrased description of the topic. Next, summarize the personally relevant life experience, and fully explain how and why this personal experience is an example of and / or can be explained by the course topic.

Reaction papers ARE NOT “research papers.” “Research papers” fully address the scholarly research about a particular topic. “Reaction Papers” very quickly summarize a topic (e.g., in one paragraph) and then, throughout the bulk of the remainder of the paper, demonstrate how and why the topic applies to personally relevant, “real-life” experience.

To submit the Reaction Paper Assignment:

  1. Access the Reaction Paper Dropbox by clicking on the title below OR by clicking on the “Reaction Paper and Research Project Assignments” link in the left hand column of the course home screen
  2. Submit your Reaction Paper within the text box provided by no later than the Reaction Paper assignment due date / time.
  3. ALSO, access the Reaction Paper Discussion Forum by clicking on the title above and click “post” to submit the Reaction Paper to the respective Reaction Paper Discussion Board by no later than the Reaction Paper assignment due date / time.
    1. DO BOTH – post the paper within the submission dropbox AND post the paper to the appropriate Discussion Forum by the Reaction Paper Due Date so that other students can read / reply to your reaction paper assignment.
    2. Do NOT submit Reaction Papers in either the Dropbox or the Discussion Forum as “attachments” – also, DO NOT email Reaction Papers to me. Attachments / emailed Reaction Papers will not be graded.

By the date on which the Reaction Paper is due (6/10/18), submit 1 copy of the Reaction Paper into Reaction Paper 1 Dropbox. Submit 2nd copy of the Reaction Paper into the Reaction Paper 1 Discussion Board by clicking “Create Thread,” copying your Reaction Paper into the text box displayed for “Message,” and clicking the “Submit” button. Do NOT submit your paper as an attachment.

By the date on which the Reaction Paper Discussion Board is due (6/17/18) read at least two other students’ reaction papers by clicking on each student’s name within the Discussion Board. Then, click “reply” and post responses (minimum 150 word each – APA formatting for in-text citations / references) to two different students regarding their reaction papers.

 
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