The ubiquity of high-speed internet access and mobile devices
Most people now have access to the technology necessary for telehealth. Not only do people already have computers and smart devices that can access the internet, they are also used to using telecommunications technology in other contexts.
The Affordable Care Act
The ACA has made it possible for approximately 16 million more people to become insured. In order to service them, the healthcare system must become more efficient. Telemedicine is one way of caring for more patients with the same resources.
The aging of the population
By 2050 the United States is expected to have 83.7 million people over age 65. Older patients generally require more care than their younger counterparts. Providing efficient and cost effective care to this portion of the population is a major challenge facing the entire healthcare system. Telehealth has a large role to play in meeting it.
Evolving laws and payer policies
Many states have adopted laws that require private payers to cover visits conducted via telemedicine. Insurance companies recognize the efficiency and cost effectiveness of telemedicine and are increasingly providing coverage on par with in-person visits.
No transportation time or costs
When you see your provider on your mobile device or computer, you can save money on gas, parking, and public transportation. Even better, you don’t waste time traveling or risk running into a traffic jam that makes you late for your appointment, or worse, late getting back to work.
No need to take time off of work
Speaking of work, video visits largely remove the need to take time off. You can simply schedule your visit during a break, or before or after work. You can be anywhere that offers sufficient privacy. You can comply with your medical providers follow-up instructions and maintain your health without missing a day of work or wasting your precious paid time off.
Eliminate child or elder care issues
Many of us have the responsibility for caring for children or older adults. Finding alternative care so that you can see the doctor can be difficult and expensive. Bringing them along can be stressful or impractical. Fortunately, telemedicine solves this challenge by allowing you to see your doctor while upholding your family responsibilities.
On-demand options
More and more medical practices are offering telemedicine these days, so there’s a good chance that you’ll be able to see your regular medical provider via video. If you can’t, but still need remote access to care, there are a number of online-only, on-demand options on the market today. They can’t treat every condition, but can tackle a wide variety of problems. Some insurance companies pay for this type of care.
Protection from Contagious Disease
Where can you be sure to find a lot of sick people? At the medical clinic of course. While everyone does their best to prevent one patient from catching something from another, it is always possible, especially in crowded waiting rooms. By staying home, you get the care you need while avoiding the risk of exposure and the chance that you’ll pass your illness on to someone else.
Less Time in the Waiting Room
If you choose a video visit via telemedicine technology, you’ll eliminate all that time spent looking at old magazines in a medical provider’s office. Even if you don’t use telemedicine, choosing a practice that offers it will reduce your wait time by letting other patients be seen from home.
Better Health
When you are able to see your medical provider as often as you need to, without the challenges of getting into the office, you can practice better management of your medication, lifestyle, and any chronic conditions you might have.
Given this list, it is not surprising that people are seeking out healthcare providers that offer the convenience and cost effectiveness of telehealth. It is poised to have a major positive impact on the entire healthcare system, and ready to make life a little bit easier for you.
