Consider the intended and unintended consequences of a healthcare policy implemented during the COVID-19 pandemic. Discuss at least one intended and one unintended consequence of the policy. In your opinion, has the unintended consequence been properly and thoroughly evaluated
at least two citations with corresponding references no later than 2019
One significant healthcare policy implemented during the COVID-19 pandemic was the widespread adoption of telehealth services. The intended consequence of this policy was to maintain access to healthcare while minimizing the risk of virus transmission by reducing in-person visits. Telehealth enabled patients to receive medical consultations, follow-ups, and even some types of therapy from the safety of their homes, ensuring continuity of care while adhering to social distancing measures.
An unintended consequence of the rapid shift to telehealth was the exacerbation of healthcare disparities, particularly among populations with limited access to the necessary technology or internet connectivity. For instance, older adults, low-income individuals, and rural communities often faced challenges in accessing telehealth services due to a lack of digital literacy or adequate broadband infrastructure . This digital divide led to unequal access to healthcare, which could potentially worsen existing health disparities.
In my opinion, the unintended consequence of exacerbating healthcare disparities has not been thoroughly and properly evaluated. While there have been studies acknowledging the issue, comprehensive, large-scale efforts to address the digital divide have been slow. Policymakers need to focus on ensuring equitable access to telehealth by investing in technology infrastructure, providing digital literacy training, and creating policies that address the needs of underserved communities .
References
- Mehrotra, A., Chernew, M., Linetsky, D., Hatch, H., & Cutler, D. (2020). The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on outpatient visits: Changing patterns of care in the newest COVID-19 hot spots. Commonwealth Fund. Retrieved from https://www.commonwealthfund.org/publications/issue-briefs/2020/jul/impact-covid-19-pandemic-outpatient-visits-changing-patterns-care
- Wang, Q. Q., Kaelber, D. C., Xu, R., & Volkow, N. D. (2021). Telehealth and primary care access for behavioral health patients during the COVID-19 pandemic. JAMA Network Open, 4(3), e213113. https://doi.org/10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2021.3113