Telehealth Will Revolutionize Healthcare Far Beyond COVID-19

The adoption of telemedicine technology has been historically slow-going despite a vast and growing research base. Now, upon the advent of the Coronavirus, healthcare systems around the globe are proactively exploring options in telemedicine that will help medical professionals provide life-saving services to patients exhibiting symptoms related to the virus, as well as those suffering from other chronic or acute diseases. The increase in the use of these virtual health technologies signal the potential for a long-term shift in healthcare delivery. Here are three of the most influential ways experts predict telehealth services will revolutionize the healthcare industry both during and long after the current pandemic. 

1.) Remote Care and Patient Monitoring 

More than 65 million Americans currently live, at least, an hour away from the nearest acute- care hospital. But, living in a healthcare desert doesn’t have to be a barrier to health in an age of telemedicine. In fact, Remote Patient Monitoring (RPM) can do an even better job of keeping accurate records than patients often do themselves! Information transferred to a physician without the introduction of human error is far more reliable than self reporting. And, RPM boosts patient engagement and subsequent recovery rates, as illustrated by studies which find that patients who are kept well-informed about their illness through electronically transmitted doctor’s notes and information take their prescribed medications more consistently. 

2.) Reduced Costs and Increased Insurance Coverage 

By the year 2030, it’s estimated that 20% of the US population will be 65 years or older. As the ratio of taxpayers to retirees receiving Medicare and Social Security benefits diminishes, telehealth services will become vital to providing high quality medical services conveniently and at a lower cost on both an individual and national level. In terms of insurance, expanded coverage has already begun and is expected to rapidly grow in its inclusion of telehealth services. 

3.) Accessible and Affordable Psychiatric Care 

“Telepsychiatry” was rapidly growing in popularity long before the Coronavirus came on the scene. For many reasons, individuals interested in bettering their psychiatric health have been moving toward online counseling services, such as Iris Health, MDLive, and BetterHelp. Telepsychiatry is typically more cost-effective than physically going in to see a psychiatrist. Plus, it reduces suffering associated with the stigma of receiving mental health care and even provides better access to specialized mental health services. In a post-pandemic world, these benefits will only be amplified. 

Telehealth will continue to revolutionize the healthcare industry in myriad ways. For instance, getting a second opinion will be easier, quicker, and more affordable using telehealth technologies. And, a growing number of physicians' offices are offering their patients access to online dispensaries that make personalized recommendations and ship medications and health- promoting products directly to patients’ front doors.