Innovation in Telesupervision: Application, Evaluation, and Policy Implications

Abstract

The use of technology in health service delivery (e.g., telehealth) and subsequently in training and education in preparation for health service careers (e.g., telesupervision) provides both challenges and opportunities. Embracing the opportunities afforded by telehealth and telesupervision will help equip the next generation of health professionals for the realities of the healthcare system of the future as well as promote greater equity for trainees and patients. To ensure maximum gain and minimal negative impact, training programs, researchers, and policymakers must work together. The field can move forward through application of innovative use cases, thoughtful design and implementation of evaluation, and the development of constructive policies. This column aims to inform these different stakeholders by providing applied examples of telesupervision in a telehealth training clinic, discussing the evaluation of telesupervision programs and competencies, and discussing policy implications for telesupervision.