Telemedicine allows patients and physicians to interact without meeting in person. In the process, the physicians use electronic devices as well as video conferencing to resolve patients’ problems based on the information they offer. Smartphones, desktops, laptops, etc. can be used for the purpose.
Telemedicine has greatly influenced the healthcare industry and is benefitting both the patients and physicians in many ways. Five practical ways are discussed below.
Increased accessibility and efficiency
Telemedicine can benefit areas where there are insufficient doctors or people. It is also useful for patients who cannot travel long distances for treatment or where frequent follow-ups are required.
Similarly, most parents are working full-time and don’t have time to drive their children under 18 years of age to the doctor. Telemedicine is helpful in this case as issues can be sorted out in simpler ways. Moreover, some patients feel easy while sitting in their comfort zones and talking about their problems. This also saves time consumed in filling out lengthy papers.
Reduced costs
As the senior population i.e. people 65 years of age or older is increasing, the government is facing financial challenges. They have cut down the benefits for retirees. This means an increase in the overhead costs. Sadly patient’s health deteriorates with the increasing age and hence the budget runs out.
Telehealth will help cut down on these costs as well. Moreover, people who have chronic conditions use telehealth to be monitored by the doctors. This technology also restricts the cost of lab visits and insurance, and the caregivers closely monitor the patients before the disease worsens and the patient doesn’t have to pay a lot out of their own pockets.
Improved patient outcomes
Usually, patients do not go to doctors for the following reasons: they are too busy, the problem may solve on its own, it costs too much, takes too long to see the doctor or don’t want to drive to the doctor. Therefore one in 5 patients wishes to switch to video visits. This is because most patients prefer one-to-one consultation that is affordable and efficient.
Reduced burnout and new revenue streams for doctors
Some physicians believe they do not give enough attention to the patients. Long working hours cause emotional and physical agony to the doctors. Moreover, they are not able to spend quality time with their families. The caregivers who turn to telemedicine have time for their families. They can also reverse the effects of burnout.
Physicians who use this technology save ample time. They are also appreciated by the patients in the same way. Now the clinicians are able to handle more patients which increases the revenue as well. It is far less expensive and a win-win situation for both.
Early diagnosis and rehabilitation at home
Studies conducted in California and Boston show that people who were enrolled in a telehealth program were able to receive treatment 20 minutes earlier than those who were not involved. This led to better diagnosis and early treatment
When patients are discharged from ER or ICU, the treatment begins at home. With help, support and guidance of health care providers, telemedicine ensure that they receive full attention and monitor their status. They intervene only when readmission is required. Prominent diseases such as heart disease and diabetes have also been minimized or prevented through telemedicine.
With the increase in globalization, it is advisable to get used to new techniques. Telemedicine is a worthy alternative for waiting for huge lines outside the doctor’s rooms. And thanks to the best telemedicine company, this emerging technology can reshape the future of healthcare.
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