Prior to the pandemic, telemedicine already existed and serviced the healthcare sector by allowing patients to connect with medical professionals. However, restrictions due to the Covid-19 virus have made it a necessity now more than ever. As stated in a telemedicine article on the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, it has evolved into an efficient and satisfactory way to provide care. It has proven itself as a practical alternative to in-person consultations, especially for those who would otherwise have difficulties traveling like the elderly and disabled.
Below are the reasons why it has become reliable through the years:
Available medical attention at any time
Telemedicine makes use of technology to connect professionals with patients for diagnosis and treatment. Through this, people can seek medical attention anytime and anywhere. Our Text2MD app is one example of a service that allows patients to text or call a physician of their choice to receive virtual urgent care, laboratory orders, and prescription medication.
Similarly, other forms of healthcare like therapy have been included in telemedicine. In a psychotherapy article on The Philadelphia Inquirer, a psychoanalyst shares how they experience less lateness and fewer cancellations regarding therapy sessions. Through telemedicine, they are also able to observe the patient’s environment and involve family members during consultations.
High-quality healthcare from virtual providers
One of the characteristics of telemedicine that makes it effective is its ability to allow medical professionals to care for their patients virtually. Even through online means, they hire trained and qualified professionals to ensure safety and reliability.
According to telemedicine provider Wheel, nurses who apply for remote jobs in Illinois and other states specialize in certain treatment types, such as weight loss, sinusitis, and birth control. The patient just needs to find the medical provider that can offer their needs remotely. Moreover, when a physical examination is necessary, these providers won’t be limited by the services they offer online. As long as you contact a telemedicine hospital or clinic near your location, you can go to their place to get checked. Through this, healthcare is made more accessible to those who need it.
Remote patient monitoring tools are utilized
Remote patient monitoring (RPM) allows care providers to monitor their patients outside of a clinical setting through the use of technology. An example of this includes digital blood pressure monitors that enable patients to send their blood oxygen and pressure levels to their physician. Another is glucose monitors that remind diabetics to take insulin and allow their doctor to monitor their condition.
Dr. Waqaas Al-Siddiq, founder of healthcare technology company Biotricity, RPM devices have greatly benefited both doctors and patients, especially during the pandemic. People with chronic conditions need constant monitoring and check-ups from their physicians and with the risk of contracting the virus, they have avoided going to the hospital altogether. However, through healthcare technology, they are able to stay home while their doctor keeps track of their health status.
Even without Covid restrictions in place, telemedicine has become a helpful innovation for both patients and health workers. Through it, people are able to seek medical attention at any time, receive high-quality healthcare, and RPM tools are used to monitor their condition. Not to mention it gives the disabled, elderly, and rural populations access to healthcare when it is otherwise difficult for them to leave their homes due to their condition or geographical hindrances. Overall, telemedicine has proven its effectiveness and practicality.
