The patient experience is evolving as people are increasingly accepting and trusting of remote care technology. According to the NORC Center for Public Affairs Research, nearly 9 in 10 Americans over age 40 stated that they would be comfortable using telemedicine for themselves or a loved one. These findings have debunked the myth that older generations are not as comfortable with telemedicine technology as their younger counterparts. As the demand for telehealth services skyrockets, providers who offer a seamless telehealth experience have a competitive advantage.
Top Benefits Of Telehealth For Patients
The benefits of telehealth for patients range from reduced costs to better long-term results. Telehealth enables patients to connect with their health care providers through the use of digital devices like smartphones and computers. Video conferencing allows providers and patients to meet face-to-face without being physically present in the same location. This ensures that providers are able to deliver a high level of care that is expected while still reducing overhead costs. There are also other incredible benefits of telehealth for patients, including the following:
No Waiting Time In Waiting Rooms
Using telehealth services means not having to wait in a physical waiting room. Instead, patients will wait in a virtual “waiting room” for just a few moments until their provider is ready to begin the appointment.
Quick Access To Specialists When Needed
Specialists offer more advanced care than primary care providers. However, access to specialists can be difficult due to fewer professionals in the field and limitations due to factors like geographic location and insurance type. Telehealth makes it easier for patients to schedule appointments with specialists without extensive wait times or long drives.
Appointments On Demand
Telehealth has proven to be much more convenient than in-person health visits. According to eVisit, the average wait time for a new patient appointment is 24 days compared to just 20 minutes for a telehealth appointment. Web-based visits with nurses or physicians can often be scheduled the same day, reducing the likelihood of an illness or injury getting worse over time. Remote monitoring also allows providers to monitor a patient’s health using home monitoring devices and web-based or mobile apps that can be used to upload information, such as blood glucose readings.
Avoiding Illnesses From Exposure To Other Patients
Hospitals and other healthcare facilities often contain patients who may be ill with a communicable disease, such as cold, flu, or coronavirus. Telehealth services reduce the risk of exposure by allowing patients to remain safely at home and away from others who may be ill.
Improved Health
Telehealth services have been found to improve the health of patients in a variety of ways. Patients can generally expect better outcomes due to faster access to providers and specialists. Telehealth also reduces the number of unnecessary admissions and readmissions by allowing providers to diagnose, treat, and monitor patients at home. Telehealth allows providers to extend their reach to patients who may require their expertise but would have otherwise missed out due to factors like location, mobility issues, and lack of transportation.
No Transportation Time Or Missing Work
Approximately 3.6 million Americans delay or miss medical care appointments due to a lack of transportation, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL). Telehealth services eliminate the need for transportation, as well as time spent sitting in traffic. Patients can also avoid paying for parking, gas, and public transportation. Most telehealth appointments last just 15 minutes, according to U.S. News contributor Purvi Parikh, M.D., allowing patients to get the medical care they need during breaks or at lunch. Patients also do not have to miss work or use vacation days to visit with their provider.
Reach Out To A Professional Telehealth Consulting Firm
The right telehealth software and strategy can make all the difference in how well providers are able to connect with patients and provide the services that they need to maintain good health. Speak with the experienced health IT professionals at Hartman Executive Advisors for assistance with choosing telehealth software or improving utilization of your current system.
