As technology evolves the opportunities for virtual connections expand. This is apparent with the recent increase in teleworking, virtual meet-ups, and telemedicine. For patients and providers, telemedicine offers an easy and secure method for giving and receiving care. Using secure video conferencing software and a variety of telemedicine devices, providers can evaluate, diagnose, and treat patients regardless of their physical location in the world as well as see more patients in less time. It also makes it possible for patients in remote areas to receive quality care.
With more providers offering telehealth services than ever before, the trends in the industry continue to shift. Here’s a look at the top trends in telemedicine in 2020.
Telehealth for Remote Patients
Patients living in remote areas often don’t receive the care they need. Depending on the location of the patient, it may take hours to reach the nearest medical facility. While patients in rural areas may have access to a primary care provider, seeing a specialist isn’t always possible. These patients may wait for months for a single appointment. Unfortunately, many conditions require immediate attention to ensure successful treatment.
Using a secure telehealth platform, providers can diagnose and treat patients in rural areas. When referred to a specialist, appointments happen faster, improving outcomes. Thanks to increasing availability and improved reimbursement, telehealth has become more common for treating patients in rural areas.
More Urban Patients Realizing the Benefits of Telemedicine
Throughout the pandemic, people around the world have had to figure out new ways to connect with people and receive care. Visiting a healthcare office isn’t always feasible. Crowded waiting rooms increase the spread of disease and many providers have begun offering telehealth services in an effort to keep their staff and patients safe.
Telemedicine software enables providers to evaluate patients without coming into direct contact with them. Providers can schedule telehealth appointments before and after normal office hours, increasing the number of patients they’re able to see. For patients, the additional hours open up the possibility of seeing their provider before or after work, reducing the number of no shows and missed appointments.
As more patients and providers realize the benefits of telemedicine, many have decided to continue giving and receiving care through telehealth software even after the pandemic. This convenient option may completely eliminate the need for certain providers to maintain a physical office.
Improved Technology
As telemedicine increases in popularity, telehealth solution providers are offering better options and improved technology. Many of the telehealth platforms available today offer numerous features that enable providers to quickly and accurately evaluate a wide range of conditions. These features include but are not limited to provider-facing schedulers, demand booking, e-documents and session notes, calendar integration, white labeling and HIPAA compliance.
Increased Cyber Security
Anytime patients share personal health information, it is up to the provider to ensure no one accesses that information. Quality telemedicine platforms protect patient data and ensure HIPAA compliance.
Fewer Trips to the Emergency Room
The convenience of telemedicine helps ensure patients receive care for treatable illnesses sooner before they progress. Although providers can’t treat every type of condition over the Internet, telehealth keeps many patients out of the emergency room each year.
Progressive HIPAA Compliant Telemedicine Software
Let’s Talk Interactive is constantly innovating and updating our HIPAA-compliant telemedicine software, telemedicine carts, and telehealth kiosks. Our telemedicine solutions increase revenue opportunities, enable support for rural patients, and ensure they receive the care they deserve. Please contact us for information about our telemedicine solutions for providers.