The benefits of telehealth: A guide for patients and providers
Telehealth options exploded during the pandemic as they provided patients and providers a way to interact without having to be in person unless it was required. Though it expanded rapidly as a response to pandemic safety measures, it has continued to be used since then, too. Why? It provides numerous benefits for both patients and providers, enabling better care overall.
More convenient option
When it comes to healthcare, convenience is necessary. Many patients may not follow up on their care or will have issues getting to appointments if they are not as convenient. By offering your patients telehealth, healthcare facilities can make sure there is a convenient option for patients to use. This enables them to easily follow up on their care and keep track of everything to improve their health.
Reduced cost and increased income for providers
Providers who offer telehealth services will find it can help decrease the cost of providing care to patients. It is less expensive to offer telehealth services compared to offering in-person appointments. This also can lead to an increased income for providers, as patients are more likely to make an appointment when they have questions or need help. With the way telehealth is set up, it’s possible to see and help more patients, increasing the overall income while keeping costs as low as possible.
Reduced cost for patients
Patients who don’t have insurance or who have limited insurance options may find it incredibly expensive to pay for a doctor’s visit. Even with insurance, if they have to pay a lot out of pocket, they may find it’s hard to pay for their visit. With telehealth appointments, though, they do not have to pay as much out of pocket and are, therefore, more likely to schedule visits as needed. They’ll be able to afford the visits easier, especially if they aren’t covered by the insurance plan, so they are less likely to hold off on scheduling an appointment.
Easier to monitor patients
It’s not always easy to schedule multiple appointments for patients for a number of reasons. With telehealth, though, it is easier to monitor patients and schedule appointments as needed. Patients can use the portal to update information when needed and to communicate with a provider to keep track of everything. When there are any appointments, the information can be updated further to provide the best care possible to patients and to keep an eye on ongoing care that may be necessary.
Easier care for rural areas
Rural areas often have a shortage of primary care physicians. This makes it difficult for people to schedule appointments, as they may have to wait weeks before they can be seen by a doctor. When they can use telehealth services, though, they are able to see a doctor when needed and can get much faster help for anything that doesn’t require an in-person visit. They’re able to get better healthcare and schedule follow-up visits with ease to participate more in their own care.
Clinics considering telehealth services have a lot to gain in the long run. They’re able to better provide care for patients and can be very beneficial for clinics, too. Take the time to look into telehealth options now to learn more about why they’re beneficial and how easy it is to get everything set up and ready to use.