Telehealth was once a well-reserved niche and was never offered widely in the medical community. It has quickly become a cornerstone of patient services. The pandemic helped cement telehealth in its position because people were suddenly unable to seek brick-and-mortar doctor’s appointments. Even after the aftermath, telehealth has remained a viable option for patients of all ages. Doctors can provide virtual consultations and patient follow-ups, creating a win-win situation among providers and patients. It is essential to understand the rise of telehealth, its challenges, and its future.
What Is Telehealth?
Telehealth, as the name suggests, consists of remote delivery of medical services using digital technology. Providers offering telehealth appointments may use virtual doctor’s visits through the telephone or video. Medical providers also use special devices that can help monitor their patients’ health, such as their vital signs.
Telehealth has seen expansive growth in the mental health industry as patients seek online counseling and medication management. Opportunities for telehealth appointments have made seeking mental healthcare much more accessible for those who might be ashamed to visit a physical office.
Another often overlooked aspect of telehealth care is patients’ ability to access educational materials that help them make better decisions. Online resources, webinars, and mobile apps help patients better manage their healthcare and stay more informed about their conditions.
Understanding the Benefits of Telehealth
Telehealth offers many benefits for both providers and their patients. Exploring the options can help determine if telehealth suits your needs.
Increased Access to Care
One of the key benefits of telehealth is the increased access to care for underserved patients. Patients living in remote areas or those with transportation issues can seek medical care on their terms and from the comfort of their homes.
Increased Convenience and Flexibility
Busy individuals find telehealth appointments much easier to manage. They do not have to factor in long commutes or wait times, making it easier to seek care. Parents of young children do not have to arrange childcare, and workers do not have to ask for time off to go to a doctor’s appointment.
Improved Costs
Patients will also notice their healthcare costs reduced with telehealth visits. You do not have to pay for gas or transportation; the doctor does not have to provide a brick-and-mortar office or large staff. They can work from home and provide needful care for their patients.
Improved Continuity of Care
Telehealth makes it much easier for patients to receive follow-up and continuing care for chronic conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure. Consistent communications with their providers help ensure patients receive consummate care that benefits their treatment approaches and outcomes.
Reduced Exposure to Illnesses
Contagious illnesses are on the rise. The cold and flu seasons are especially dangerous for vulnerable patients with compromised immune systems or the elderly. Remote visits help reduce exposure to viruses that can cause widespread illnesses.
The Rise of Telehealth Continues
Telehealth options are here to stay and expanding rapidly. Even small communities are embracing this latest healthcare initiative. Although there are challenges to providing telehealth care, the benefits far outweigh any disadvantages. Whether you are the patient or provider, it is critical to understand how telehealth works and how it can be used to protect patients. The goal is to provide safer, more convenient, and more accessible options for seeking healthcare from providers who once may have been off limits.
