Communication barriers impacting rural healthcare organizations

Communication is a cornerstone of patient care in all healthcare organizations. From clear conversations with patients about treatment to consistent coordination with stakeholders, any disruptions or inefficiency in these interactions can lead to long-term consequences. Rural facilities in particular face challenges that create barriers to effective communication, like access to the Internet, geographic isolation, and financial constraints.

The common communication barriers faced by rural organizations

A Journal of General Internal Medicine study states, “A qualitative study of rural older adults found travel distance to be the strongest barrier to healthcare, endorsed by 33%, while other barriers such as lack of quality healthcare, rural culture/pride, and limited services were endorsed by 15 to 20%.” These obstacles can compromise the functioning of these healthcare systems. 

Common communication barriers include: 

• Limited access to high-speed internet and technology can limit access to telehealth services, electronic records, and other communication tools. 
• Workforce shortages lead to overworked staff with reduced availability for patient communication and coordination with other providers. 
• Geographic isolation makes timely communication difficult especially in emergencies or for follow-up care. 
• Cultural and language differences can lead to communication gaps. 
• Financial constraints often faced by rural organizations restrict their ability to invest in modern communication systems or staff training. 
• Inconsistent communication networks between providers, specialists, and larger medical centers can lead to delayed or incomplete information sharing. 

The impact of barriers on patient care and health outcomes 

When communication breaks down, patients may not fully understand their diagnosis or the importance of the treatment regime, resulting in poor management of conditions. The lack of communication also results in patients being less likely to detect the early warning signs of serious conditions and interventions are therefore delayed. The delay causes conditions to be treated during advanced stages and therefore makes recovery that much harder. These issues are only expounded by the logistical difficulties in traveling to their local facilities. 

How to balance limited access to technology and communication

Make use of HIPAA compliant email: 

• Use secure HIPAA compliant email providers that offer encryption so that transmission of protected health information (PHI) remains protected. 
• Create standardized email templates for common patient queries and communication needs. 

Telephonic outreach programs: 

• Establish a system where patients can book specific time slots for phone consultations. 
• Designate care coordinators who specialize in follow-up calls to ensure patients adhere to treatment plans and address issues or barriers to care. 

Community-based communication: 

• Train community members as health advocates who can bridge the communication gap between healthcare providers and patients. 
• Consider deploying mobile health clinics equipped with basic technology to support underserved communities. 

FAQs

What is consent? 

Permission granted by a patient for healthcare providers to use their personal information or perform medical procedures. 

Is consent necessary to contact patients?

Consent is a best practice for communication with patients. 

What is considered HIPAA compliant training for healthcare staff?

Education on patient rights, secure handling of PHI, and understanding the regulations governing patient confidentiality.