Optimizing Telehealth for Future Needs 

Optimizing Telehealth for Future Needs

Telehealth visits and remote patient care has doubled since 2016. And since the outbreak of COVID-19, people have gravitated even more towards online access to healthcare. More than 50% of the US physicians are using some form of telehealth services to care for their patients. Half of these physicians are using telehealth services for the first time since the coronavirus pandemic struck. 

The physicians who are hesitant about joining the various telehealth programs usually have the following concerns; will they get their payment on time? Do they need to be available 24/7? Does it actually work? What kind of liability is there? etc. 

 

Future of Healthcare: 

The future of telehealth is bright as more people will seek out virtual care in the coming years. We have seen a rise of pure Telehealth providers like AmWell, Teladoc, etc. that acted more like tele-urgent cares. However, now there is a growing trend towards virtual primary care as well so the patient knows the provider, and thus has access to more longitudinal care. WoW Health is flattening the playing field opening up “cash” pay opportunities for virtual urgent care so patients and providers can meet directly at the best price point in the most convenient setting, in-person or via telehealth. This approach will help put the decision making in the hands of the consumers (patients) and providers (doctors), and take it away from complex third party reimbursement models (insurance). However, this ecosystem must go beyond only doctor appointments to include a full spectrum of outpatient care including labs, imaging services, outpatient procedures, etc.

 

Optimizing Long-Term Care: 

COVID-19 has severely affected patients who need long term care and are suffering from chronic diseases. Given how human contact is the biggest reason for the spread of coronavirus, going to hospitals and clinics has also become a health hazard. Telemedicine is a blessing in this regard as people can consult their doctors from the comforts of their home. 

There are certain telehealth goals that are sought after by the leading healthcare providers like improving patient access and care management, decreasing the patient and provider exposure to minimize the spread of the disease, providing better access for primary care, and providing training for physicians and healthcare providers. 

 

Mitigating Nurses and Doctors Shortage: 

Through telehealth, nursing and doctors shortages can be mitigated. A single doctor has to provide their service to thousands of patients. During these trying times, healthcare staff have taken on roles of heroes. However, we are facing a shortage of healthcare providers to provide proper care, and there is concern about providing a safe way for physicians to service their patients.  These concerns can be addressed with telehealth. 

 

Adaptability is the Key: 

The fundamental goal of healthcare is improving patient health by providing the best medical services. There is no one-size-fits all approach doctors can use. Periodic in-person appointments to care for the patient is a must but there is growing agreement that many of these encounters can be effectively performed via Telemedicine. Telemedicine and teletherapy appointments can benefit the rural population as they can offer medical services in areas where there are no clinics or hospitals available. The future of telehealth is bright as our healthcare delivery model continues to evolve in a post-COVID world.