What are their roles and responsibilities?

Independent Responsibilities:

• Assessing and monitoring patients’ conditions
• Educating patients on their conditions and treatment plans
• Administering medications, including pain management
• Providing wound care and dressing changes
• Assisting with physical therapy exercises
• Monitoring vital signs and assessing pain levels
• Referring patients to specialists as needed

Responsibilities with Physician Supervision:

• Assisting with surgical procedures
• Setting casts and splints
• Performing joint injections
• Interpreting X-rays and other imaging studies

Training for Telehealth Orthopedic Nursing:

• Basic RN licensure: This is the foundation for all nursing practice, including telehealth.
• Orthopedic nursing certification: While not mandatory, it demonstrates specialized knowledge and skills in this area.
• Telehealth training: This could include courses on specific telehealth platforms, legal and ethical considerations, and virtual patient assessment techniques.

Practicing Telehealth Legally:

• State licensure: You need to be licensed as an RN in the state(s) where you plan to practice telehealth.
• Organizational compliance: Ensure the telehealth platform you use complies with HIPAA and other relevant regulations.
• Physician collaboration: In most cases, you will need a collaborating physician for referrals, supervision, and certain procedures.

OpenTelemed’s Telehealth Practice Setup Program:

OpenTelemed offers a program that can help you set up your own telehealth practice as an orthopedic nurse. They claim to:

• Provide legal compliance guidance and agreements.
• Offer self-paced training and internship opportunities.
• Assist with credentialing with various insurance companies.
• Connect you with relevant resources and patients.

Financial Considerations:

Starting your own telehealth practice requires careful financial planning. Consider the costs of training, equipment, malpractice insurance, marketing, and other overhead. OpenTelemed claims you can expect 200-500 patients per month after completing their program, but income will depend on various factors.

Remember:

• Telehealth is a growing field, but it’s crucial to understand the legal and ethical considerations before diving in.
• Seek guidance from experienced professionals and ensure you have the necessary training and support.
• Carefully assess the financial viability of starting your own practice.

OpenTelemed:

While OpenTelemed may offer resources and support, it’s important to conduct thorough research and compare different programs before making a decision. Ensure their claims align with your expectations and state regulations.

Beyond OpenTelemed:

Explore other organizations and resources available to support your telehealth journey. Consider professional associations, other training programs, and networking opportunities.

Empowering Your Passion:

Remember, regardless of the platform you choose, your passion for providing quality care is key. Continuously hone your skills, stay updated on best practices, and prioritize patient well-being.