What Is Telemedicine

Rising healthcare costs, and limited access to doctors in some areas mean that the business of healthcare as usual does not meet everyone's needs

. However, there is a healthcare concept known as telemedicine that shows promise for busy physicians, and patients who would benefit from their expertise. Telemedicine is the practice of using digital technologies like computers, smart phones and television to address healthcare issues at a distance. At the most basic level, a patient might be able to log onto a healthcare provider's website at a specific time for a follow-up appointment. By using cameras, the provider could have face-to-face contact with a patient without the patient coming into the office. Telemedicine can be used as a way to involve world renown physicians in the treatment of diseases such as cancer. A specialist can make arrangements for another physician to "sit in" on a consultation with a patient who comes to the office for care. This use of telemedicine allows a patient to get a second opinion without going from doctor to doctor.

Telehealth can have far reaching implications. It can be used locally, nationally or globally, bringing together the best minds in the healthcare industry to tackle some of the toughest cases. For example in developing countries where there are limited health care resources and practitioners, telemedicine can help extend resources. Specialists from countries with abundant healthcare resources can assist those in developing countries with diagnosis, and help identify treatment options.

In the inner city, rural areas, and remote locations where healthcare resources are limited, telemedicine can address health disparities suffered by persons with limited access to care. This includes minorities, older adults and other limited resource persons who cannot afford healthcare. Telehealth is the perfect solution for those without access to traditional services. With the help of a nurse or other health professional who has access to a laptop computer, a physician can assess a patient's progress and needs. This might include diagnosing a condition, and recommending treatment, especially when a nurse is present who can conduct a physical assessment.

Telemedicine can be used as a means to bring specialized training to medical professionals. Teaching hospitals can connect with hospitals in smaller communities. With a patient's permission, doctors and nurses can observe procedures such as surgeries.

Another application for telemedicine is in rescue operations or disasters. When it is possible to have a connection to a computer or smart phone, lives can be saved using telehealth methods. A trauma specialist can talk first responders, or others through procedures that can help stabilize a patient until he or she can get to a hospital, or other healthcare facility.

Telehealth is an option for patient education or health education. For example, in an area where there may be no resources for diabetes education, a church building or other facility can serve as a meeting place where education can be delivered to small groups or individuals.

Expect telemedicine to become more prevalent. Efforts to reform healthcare will require more cost effective ways of conducting treatment. For routine health follow-up where an extensive physical examination is not required, telemedicine is an option to keep patients connected to health resources.

by: Jamie Simpson

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