It’s almost 2022, and people all around the world still deal with the pandemic, and more businesses and industries tend to adapt their services based on the new restrictions and continue providing their services remotely. The Healthcare industry, schools and educational institutions, and financial services, are some of these businesses.
As for the healthcare industry, statistics show that nearly half of the U.S consumers, now use Telehealth (healthcare delivered remotely) for contacting doctors and embracing virtual healthcare. On the other hand, patients had to be made sure that their personally identifiable information would never be compromised and accessed by unauthorized persons. This is where a HIPAA compliant telehealth platform plays an essential role in safeguarding patients’ sensitive data by applying strict security and privacy rules.
After this long introduction, let’s review the disadvantages and advantages of telehealth for patines and doctors:
What are the advantages of telehealth?
Access patient records in a secure portal: If you use a single telehealth platform, you will access all your health-related records in a secure portal. It eliminates the need to keep a physical copy of your reports, test results, prescriptions, and other related data.
Save time and money: A virtual doctor visit means that you don’t need to worry about driving to the doctor’s office, taking some time off from work, or even worrying about child care. Everything happens in the palm of your hand, wherever you are and whenever you want.
Easy connection between your primary care provider and any specialists: If your primary care provider wants you to visit a specialist, they can quickly share your records through a secure platform. It ensures all the details and records are securely shared between medical offices in different locations. This is yet another benefit of telehealth.
Access to more highly skilled doctors: If you live in a rural area and need n urgent medical care, a telehealth platform can help you book a visit from a highly qualified doctor in no time. In other words, the nearest medical facility is just one tap away from you.
What are the disadvantages of telehealth?
Not every type of visit is possible remotely: Although there are services that can come to your home and take blood samples, for imaging tests and some specific treatments and tests, you still have to visit a medical facility.
Security can still be a concern: We mentioned the importance of a telehealth platform to be HIPAA compliant. However, patients are still concerned about the privacy of their sensitive data.
Insurance coverage for the cost of telehealth visits: Each insurance company has its own policy when it comes to covering the cost of telehealth visits. So, before booking a telehealth visit, make sure to double-check the coverage with your insurance company.
What else would you add to the list of the advantages and disadvantages of telehealth for patients and doctors?
