Telehealth, also referred to as telemedicine or telecare, is a rapidly growing area in the world of clinical medicine, and it’s changing how people look at healthcare. Telehealth is the use of electronic information and telecommunication technology to support long-distance clinical health care, patient education and health administration. Telehealth providers use technologies such as phone calls, video conferencing, streaming media and more.
Over the years, telehealth has been especially beneficial for people living in rural areas who don’t always have access to medical care. Telehealth connects healthcare providers to patients that need their services. This allows patients to receive medical care in their communities while avoiding long travel times. Telehealth plays an important role in ensuring patients in rural areas have access to the health care that they need.
People who live in urban areas are beginning to take advantage of the services telehealth offers, too. However, there are still people who are hesitant to use a telehealth provider in fear that it won’t provide the same service and care as an in-person doctor’s visit. Here are some of the biggest benefits of using a telehealth provider:
The ability to resolve many of your medical issues
Most, if not all, telehealth providers use U.S. board-certified doctors who can resolve most of your medical issues. Telehealth providers can diagnose, recommend treatment and even prescribe medicine. Telehealth providers are ideal for non-emergency situations such as cold and flu symptoms, bronchitis, allergies, urinary tract infections, respiratory infections, sinus problems and more. Additionally, if you’re in need of a short term prescription for an of these medical issues, telehealth providers can prescribe them to you and have them sent to your pharmacy of choice.
Available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
Perhaps one of the biggest benefits to using a telehealth provider is having access to a doctor 24 hours a day, 7 days a week – no matter where you are. Whether you’re at home, work or even on vacation, you’ll have access to quality medical care.
Increases access to healthcare
With telehealth, people can more easily obtain specialty services while staying in their local communities. At the same time, telehealth allows healthcare providers to expand their reach and serve a wider range of people.
Reduces healthcare costs
When you can’t get an appointment with your doctor, it’s likely that you’ll turn to urgent care or the emergency room for immediate medical treatment. In turn, you often spend more money than necessary to treat you or your family’s non-emergency medical situation. Telehealth providers often cost far less than urgent care or the emergency room, and you have access to a doctor within minutes as opposed to waiting days for an appointment.
