Rapid technological advances have created more convenience and efficiency in every facet of life and are now more evident in the healthcare industry.
Fremont, CA: Telemedicine or the ability to access remotely and offer healthcare services and clinical information through the internet, via two-way video chats, via email, text message, or over the telephone, has revolutionized medical practice by enabling patients and providers to benefit from a more personal, cost-effective, safe and reliable methods of healthcare delivery without the requirement to meet in the traditional doctor office setting. Studies show that telemedicine benefits by demonstrating virtually no difference between the qualities of medical care provided, whether it be in person or provided via telemedicine.
Saving Patients Time and Money
Patients spend a massive amount of time and money seeking quality healthcare services. It was stated on a report that, on average, it takes over 2 hours and costs a patient roughly $43 in opportunity costs (in addition to actual medical costs) for each medical appointment he or she attends. The possibility to participate in a telemedicine appointment over a smartphone or computer saves a tremendous amount of time and reduces the stress associated with taking time off from work and discarding the associated costs of gas, travel, parking, childcare, and other incidentals.
Increased Patient Access to Health Care
Telemedicine betters patients’ access to healthcare by removing the distance and travel time between patients and care providers; this is particularly true for specialized healthcare providers.