The concept of telemedicine is relatively new and in the age of the internet, it is developing super-fast. Since its inception, the telemedicine field has undergone drastic change. It was just about 50 years ago that several hospitals began experimenting with telemedicine to access patients in remote areas. However, with rapid advancements in technology over the past few decades, this medical field has changed into a complex, integrated service. It is utilized in homes, and different types of healthcare facilities.
Rapid Changes in the Telemedicine Field
Today, the field of telemedicine is changing more rapidly than in previous years. As technology advances exponentially, so does the widespread affordability and reachability of basic telemedicine equipment.
For instance, not only is live video telemedicine technology available, but also much of the USA population knows how to use online videochat applications and have access to a computer/smartphone to use them.
The concept of telemedicine was originally coined as a way of treating patients who were living in remote areas, far away from local medical centers or in places with a shortage of medical professionals.
Although telemedicine is still utilized today to tackle those issues, it’s increasingly becoming a convenient healthcare tool. Patients of today do not want to waste a lot of time in the waiting room at the physician’s office for minor, but urgent medical conditions.
The need for more convenient care along with the unavailability of enough medical professionals has led to the increase of telemedicine firms. Many provide patients with around the clock access to healthcare with an on-call physician contracted by that firm. Others provide hospitals and bigger medical centers with access to additional clinical staff and specialists.
Additionally, others offer a telemedicine platform for doctors to use to provide virtual visits to their patients. Telemedicine is increasingly becoming a way to provide medical centers with an edge in a competitive industry where it’s hard to remain independent or uphold a healthy bottom line.
The Growth of the Mobile Health Field Is Also Impacting the Rise of Telemedicine
The wide range of mobile health apps and user-friendly medical tools is enabling patients to start using technology to monitor their health. Through the easy-to-use medical devices patients can collect required medical information for a physician’s diagnosis without needing to go to the doctor’s office. As more patients become proactive about the use of technology to monitor their health, they may also be more open to alternative methods of receiving care..
Conclusion Telemedicine is beneficial as it expands reach to quality patient care, particularly to areas that require it most. Additionally, it offers a way to reduce healthcare expenses and engage connected patients. It also has the potential to transform the healthcare delivery system for the better.