Telehealth is an important factor that raises questions and answers the rural health issue in the United States. There is no second opinion that telehealth lowers travel and cost obstacles while increasing access to basic and specialized treatment in regions where health practitioners are in short supply.
However, the unfortunate reality is that the populations that might most benefit from telemedicine are frequently on the wrong side of the digital divide. It is necessary to examine how health practitioners, policymakers, payers, and internet service providers can work together to guarantee that rural populations access high-speed internet connections and achieve health equity.
A Digital Divide
Most people know a digital divide worldwide, with access to the internet and others who do not. While wealth is a key element in determining where people fall on the digital divide, geography has also been a reliable predictor.
What is telemedicine, and who benefits from it?
Essentially, telemedicine is the practice of doctors treating patients via a digital link, such as a video call or a message system, rather than treating them face to face. Video conferencing is frequently employed in mental therapy when patients show their doctor a physical ailment. Many telehealth providers use asynchronous telemedicine, in which patients and doctors contact via online messaging such as email to discuss symptoms rather than in real-time.
Is Telemedicine A Viable Solution To Our Health?
Telehealth is incredibly helpful in navigating patient encounters and may help the healthcare system become more efficient. Digital healthcare is provided by Health For Mankind with specialty treatment to diabetic patients while reducing patient wait times. People who cannot visit a doctor’s office can receive care through telehealth.
BOTTOM LINE
Many of the issues in our existing healthcare system arise from costly insurance coverage, overcrowded public health facilities, and other impediments to good healthcare. While telemedicine may not fix all of these issues, it can reduce waste in the healthcare system and break down cost and convenience barriers over time.
