NURS FPX 4900 Assessment 3 Assessing the Problem Technology Care Coordination and Community Resources Considerations

There are a few concerns around the use of technology in the healthcare system, which can cause issues in its adaptation and effective utilization. Not all patients have access to digital devices like internet access in remote places or are uncomfortable using telehealth and telemedicine for health purposes. It creates disparity issues in access to care (Glass et al., 2022). There is another primary concern around technology use for health purposes, which can hamper the efficiency of the treatment of AUD management for patients (like Mr. Paul) due to privacy and security concerns.

Regarding privacy and security, Electronic Health Records (EHR) and telehealth platforms must adhere to strict privacy policy regulations to protect patient data (Houser et al., 2023). It is important to balance in-person and remote consultation to avoid over-reliance on technology and reduce the empathy factor, which is crucial for mental health and addiction management for patients (like Mr. Paul) (Glass et al., 2022). 

Current Technology Use in Professional Practice 

Technology is not an alien concept at my workplace because of its integration into healthcare delivery for a while. Many healthcare providers utilize telehealth platforms for remote consultations and monitoring patient progress in AUD management. However, barriers such as internet connectivity issues and lack of familiarity with technology among patients affect its effectiveness. EHR systems are widely used to document patient information, treatment plans, and progress (Aguirre et al., 2019). They facilitate me in care coordination among healthcare personnel but require training and initial costs for implementation on a holistic scale.

The barriers need to be addressed by training and educating the healthcare team, including nursing staff, for effective utilization and integration of technology for AUD management. Technology integration requires appropriate infrastructure, such as secure networks, devices, and software, so the initial set and maintenance costs are significant (Ali et al., 2023). I have seen progress in technology upgrades at my professional level, but it still requires support for holistic implementation. Lastly, patient engagement and adherence to technology-based interventions are essential for optimal outcomes along with healthcare systems navigation for reimbursement policies and funding to support and sustain the use of technology in AUD management (Glass et al., 2022).

Utilization of Care Coordination and Community Resources

Care coordination is an interdisciplinary collaboration for treating AUD, which is beneficial for holistic and cohesive treatment plans for AUD patients. It allows disciplines such as physicians, nurses, counselors, psychiatrists, pharmacists, and social workers to work within their expertise in a parallel manner to manage AUD. Studies have shown that care coordination is proven and recommended in primary care departments due to its positive impact on health outcomes and the healthcare system (Kools et al., 2022).

Care coordination plays an essential role in managing AUD. Care coordination for AUD management for patients like Mr. Paul has several benefits. It ensures that Mr. Paul receives integrated care, including medical, behavioral, and social support, addressing his multiple needs effectively. Coordination among healthcare personnel, caregivers, and community resources improves communication, fostering enhanced patient outcomes (Cole, 2022). By involving Mr. Paul and his family in care planning and decision-making, care coordination promotes a patient-centered approach, empowering him to take charge of his health condition actively.   

Community resources are crucial in AUD management because the social environment dramatically influences an individual’s behavior. Mr. Paul can benefit from several community resources assisting him in overcoming issues like social stigma and feelings of isolation. For instance, support groups and peer counseling such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), a 12-step peer-supported mutual program, offer valuable social support, promoting recovery and reducing isolation (Wnuk, 2022). Community programs like education, skill training, and coping strategies also help in abstinence and the likelihood of relapse. Skills-building and coping strategies also improve social relations and maintain employment with enhanced skills and self-control (Cole, 2022). Integrating community resources in Mr. Paul’s treatment plan will allow a complete approach to address social factors, particularly housing stability, employment opportunities, and family dynamics impacting his AUD. 

Current Use in Professional Practice Along With Barriers

Healthcare personnel, including nurses, social workers, and psy