telehealth education and resources
Bridging the Digital Divide to Equitable Health Outcomes Project (BDDEHOP)BRIDGING THE GAP
The Bridging the Gap to Equitable Health Outcomes Project, (abbreviated as BDDEHOP or “Bee-Dee-Hop),” offers individuals from underserved communities the opportunity to access educational assistance, participate in workshops in their own communities, and receive access to free video-enabled devices. This initiative aims to equip these community members with the knowledge and confidence necessary to engage in telehealth consultations with their healthcare providers.
*Currently only available for seniors in Montgomery County, PA.
TELEHEALTH APP DATABASE
To facilitate informed decision-making, BDDEHOP provides an accessible online database of hospitals and healthcare facilities across Pennsylvania that offer telehealth services. This comprehensive database includes information about the telehealth applications used by each facility, frequently asked questions (FAQ), and guidance on how to access virtual healthcare services. By offering a centralized resource, BDDEHOP aims to streamline the process of connecting seniors with healthcare providers through telehealth.
Community Presentations and Workshops
BDDEHOP conducts community workshops focused on digital literacy and telehealth education. These workshops provide hands-on training, support, and guidance for African-American seniors, helping them navigate telehealth platforms with confidence. The workshops also address any concerns or questions seniors may have about using telehealth services. Through interactive and engaging sessions, BDDEHOP fosters a culture of comfort and competence with telehealth technology.
DIGITAL LITERACY ASSESSMENT AND ACCESS TO DEVICES
BDDEHOP provides a digital literacy assessment to meet you participants where they are. Additionally, BDDEHOP assesses the eligibility of seniors to obtain video-enabled devices or identifies sources to provide access to those who may be over the financial threshold to qualify for free devices. Ensuring access to the necessary technology is a critical step in empowering seniors to participate in telehealth consultations effectively.
MORE SERVICES
1:1 Support
Sometimes community members need personalized one-on-one assistance who may need additional guidance in using telehealth platforms effectively. Providing direct 1:1 assistance will increase comfort and confidence to engage in virtual healthcare consultations. Email us at contactus@communityheropa.org so you can be one of the first gain access to 1:1 support.
Chat Bot
In March 2024, BDDEHOP will launch a user-friendly telehealth chatbot that will act as a virtual assistant to provide instant support and answer frequently asked questions related to telehealth services. The chatbot aims to enhance accessibility to telehealth information and serve as a round-the-clock resource for African-American seniors seeking telehealth assistance.
we are closing the gap
Studies have shown that technological barriers limit the access to connect underserved populations to remote care.
We are doing something about it.
prevention
Older and low-income patients tend to be more vulnerable and have more complicated medical needs. By giving patients the opportunity to access care, we can prevent possible complications and unnecessary hospitalizations!
connection
Social distancing has prevented seniors from interacting with others. Patients can also use these devices to connect with their families and friends, helping to alleviate stress and anxiety from this pandemic.
education
Some seniors don’t know how to use their devices or set them up. Providing printed out guides and free virtual tech support via email and phone call helps educate seniors and reduce stress around appointments and calling friends/family.
help us serve you better
Our goal is to optimize BDDHEHOP to meet the needs of our community. We kindly ask you to participate in our survey to assist us in providing the support that best serves you.