By: Jamelia Hand MHS CADC CODP
Gina was one of the most exceptional counselors i’ve worked with. Her ability to connect with patients and guide them toward recovery was unmatched, and her dedication to their success made her indispensable at her organization. When I was brought in to help implement a new patient support software and app at her clinic, designed to enhance Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) outcomes through Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and contingency management, Gina was optimistic about its potential.
But as the process unfolded, it became clear that the road to adoption would not be as seamless as we had hoped. Gina was open to innovation but found the shift from her trusted methods challenging. Her patients, many of whom faced barriers to digital literacy or lacked reliable access to technology, struggled to adapt as well. Leadership at her organization also underestimated the effort required to integrate the tool into existing workflows, leaving staff without the proper training or support. Despite the platform’s promise, implementation delays and underutilization risked undermining its effectiveness.
Gina’s story highlights the challenges that come with introducing telehealth and other digital tools into clinical spaces, especially in SUD treatment. As telehealth continues to grow and new opportunities emerge, technology developers must partner with organizations to better understand and address these obstacles. This enhanced understanding will ensure their solutions succeed.
The MAT Opportunity in Telehealth
The expansion of telehealth services, particularly for MAT, is revolutionizing access to care. Telemedicine platforms are helping patients connect with clinicians, access behavioral health resources, and engage in recovery in ways that were previously unimaginable. For technology developers, this represents an incredible opportunity to create innovative solutions that enhance patient care and outcomes.
However, these opportunities come with significant challenges. Without careful planning and attention to real-world clinical environments, even the most promising tools can fail to achieve their full potential.
Challenges Technology Developers Must Be Prepared to Acknowledge
1. Outdated Preferences
Many clinicians, like Gina, have relied on traditional methods that work for them. Transitioning to a digital platform requires more than showcasing its benefits, it demands building trust and demonstrating how the tool can integrate seamlessly into their established workflows. Additionally, your implementation timeline is not theirs… Be prepared to be patient and take the time to get things right.
2. Digital Literacy Gaps
Even user-friendly platforms can pose challenges for patients and clinicians unfamiliar with navigating technology. Without proper training and support, adoption rates will remain low.
3. On-Site Support for Clinicians
Even though the platform is digital, technology partners should be prepared to provide robust (on-site) in addition to virtual support for diverse adult learning styles. Clinicians who encounter issues during patient care don’t have the time or bandwidth to troubleshoot on their own.
4. Senior Leadership’s Role in Adoption
Leadership often assumes that directing staff to use new tools is enough, but implementing new technology requires a culture shift. Developing policies, training staff, and creating buy-in at all levels are critical to success.
5. Operational and Implementation Hurdles
In already short-staffed treatment centers, adding new tools can feel overwhelming. If the platform isn’t designed to integrate smoothly into workflows, it risks becoming a burden rather than a solution.
6. Regulatory Compliance
Each state has specific regulatory requirements for SUD treatment providers. Technology developers must ensure their software aligns with these regulations to avoid legal and operational setbacks. My advise, talk to your state’s division of substance use first and communicate with them as you develop your software. They are partners, they don’t bite, and your mission is the same: To create more access to an enhanced client experience.
Implementation Steps for Tech Partners
To successfully enter the telehealth marketplace, technology developers must account for these challenges. Here’s my step-by-step guide to ensure smooth implementation:
1. Conduct a Needs Assessment
Identify the digital literacy levels of both clinicians and patients. Map out the clinical teams’ existing workflows to understand how the technology can integrate seamlessly.
2. Offer Robust Training
Provide comprehensive training sessions for staff. When it’s convenient for them (this is the most important part!).
Develop simple, accessible user guides and videos for both clinicians and patients.
3. Provide On-Site or Accessible Virtual Support
Assign a dedicated support team to handle technical issues. Schedule regular check-ins during the implementation phase.
4. Collaborate with Leadership
Partner with leadership to create policies and training roadmaps. Encourage leadership to champion the platform and model its use.
5. Pilot the Technology
After kick-off and implementation meetings to align the team, start with a small-scale rollout to identify and address any issues. Use this feedback to refine the platform before full implementation.
6. Ensure Regulatory Compliance
Research state-specific requirements and ensure the platform is compliant. Additionally, consider providing documentation support to help treatment providers meet their regulatory obligations. They appreciate when you support them in maintaining their licensure.
How Vantage Can Help
At Vantage Clinical Consulting, we specialize in bridging the gap between technology developers and clinical teams. With our deep understanding of SUD treatment, we help technology partners translate their tools into real-world solutions that meet the needs of treatment providers and align with state regulations.
We support organizations by:
•Translating clinical workflows into actionable technology solutions.
•Helping leadership develop the culture shift necessary for successful implementation.
•Ensuring regulatory compliance and operational efficiency.
Without addressing these critical gaps, even the most innovative platforms may fall short of their potential. Let Vantage Clinical Consulting help you navigate the complexities of the clinical landscape and ensure your technology achieves its full impact.
The Bottom Line…
The growth of telehealth services in SUD treatment presents exciting opportunities for technology developers, but success requires more than innovation. Understanding and addressing the challenges of implementation, digital literacy gaps, operational barriers, leadership buy-in, and regulatory compliance are essential to creating solutions that truly make a difference. By partnering with organizations like Vantage Clinical Consulting, technology developers can ensure their tools reach their full potential and transform the future of SUD treatment.
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