Challenges

There are significant challenges to meeting the needs of SC AHEC’s learners. Let's examine 5 of these challenges as outlined in Siwicki’s 2019 article.

Challenge 1: Emerging technology

There are major trends in medical technology which are reshaping the landscape for reimbursement and regulatory oversight. By 2020, telemedicine is expected to be a $34 billion industry!!

Challenge 2: Evolution of necessary career skills

According to World Economic Forum, 35% of the skills workers need will change by 2020 and required skills will continue to evolve.

For example, many counties in SC now offer school-based telehealth, which is a significant learning curve for both the distant provider and the school-based nurse.

Challenge 3: Tax Reform

All those involved in the healthcare field need to keep informed about tax reforms. Changes may require new supply chains, business unit reorganizations, benefit redesigns for executives and staff, and investments in technology and staff training.

Challenge 4: Demand for low-cost, high quality healthcare

A lower-cost value line is an important growth strategy in a healthcare ecosystem in which average deductibles have tripled over the last decade.

Challenge 5: Changes to Affordable Care Act

Keeping up to date with changes to Affordable Care Act is essential, especially the implications for providers.

To address these challenges, professional development is the key. "Healthcare leaders must take steps to assess, develop and fine tune key personal and professional skills to remain proficient” (Teed, 2018)

A Learning Framework to Address these Challenges: 60 Year Curriculum

In order to implement a 60 Year Curriculum, we must first consider:

•Educational best practices

•Multi-generational workforce

•Learner services

These concepts will be covered in the next sections.

Pause to Reflect:

Which of the 5 challenges do you believe is most significant for SC AHEC’s learners?

As this lesson concludes,

it’s time to answer a couple of review questions!