8 NOVEMBER 2023IN MY OPINIONBy Brian Dobosh, Vice President of Digital Health, RWJBarnabas HealthTelehealth [R]Evolution: Healthcare's Future In today's fast-paced world, where convenience is king and digital technology reigns supreme, the realm of healthcare has not remained untouched. Telehealth, a term that has gained increasing prominence in recent years, is transforming the way we access and receive medical care. In this article, we will embark on a journey through the history of telehealth, explore its current state, and glimpse into the potential future developments that promise to revolutionize healthcare over the next 5-10 years.The Roots of TelehealthThe concept of telehealth isn't as new as it might seem. Its roots can be traced back to the early 20th century when doctors experimented with radiotelephony to provide medical advice remotely. However, the true breakthroughs began in the 1950s and 60s with the advent of videoconferencing technology. Medical professionals started using video calls to consult with colleagues across distances, marking the initial steps towards what we now know as telehealth.The 1990s witnessed significant developments, with the internet becoming more accessible. Telehealth was gradually adopted for remote patient consultations and medical education. Still, it remained a niche field, often hindered by technological limitations and regulatory hurdles.The Current State of TelehealthFast forward to the 21st century, and telehealth has experienced a meteoric rise. The COVID-19 pandemic played a pivotal role in catapulting telehealth to the forefront of healthcare. Social distancing measures and the urgent need for remote medical care pushed both patients and healthcare providers to embrace digital solutions.Telehealth services now encompass a wide array of medical disciplines, from primary care and mental health counseling to specialized consultations. Patients can use mobile applications on their smartphones to connect with healthcare professionals conveniently. Even the most technologically resistant patients have found themselves engaging in virtual visits.Brian Dobosh
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