INTEGRATION OF TELEHEALTH INTO DNP CURRICULUM AND CLINICAL PRACTICE

To generate an expanded and cutting-edge advanced practice nursing workforce, Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program leadership needs to develop a strong appreciation for the historical perspective of health care. Additionally, DNP leadership should continually scan the landscape for novel approaches to not only curricula, but also further a vigilant appreciation for new horizons in the technology sector. Developing additional practice opportunities for DNP students and health care practitioners serves as a platform to increase access to health care for patients, particularly in underserved areas. Integrating telehealth technology into DNP programming to educate advanced practice nurses in utilization of an innovative modality that has the potential to ultimately increase patient access to primary health care is a challenge that is before us in these turbulent health care times. Not only does the use of telehealth provide expansion of potential clinical sites for students, it also provides faculty with use of a powerful tool to provide oversight and consultation to students in remote, rural, or distant clinical sites.