The benefits of telehealth for patients range from reduced costs to better long-term results. Telehealth enables patients to connect with their health care providers through the use of digital devices like smartphones and computers. Video conferencing allows providers and patients to meet face-to-face without being physically present in the same location. This ensures that providers are able to deliver a high level of care that is expected while still reducing overhead costs. There are also other incredible benefits of telehealth for patients, including the following:
Using telehealth services means not having to wait in a physical waiting room. Instead, patients will wait in a virtual “waiting room” for just a few moments until their provider is ready to begin the appointment.
Specialists offer more advanced care than primary care providers. However, access to specialists can be difficult due to fewer professionals in the field and limitations due to factors like geographic location and insurance type. Telehealth makes it easier for patients to schedule appointments with specialists without extensive wait times or long drives.
Hospitals and other healthcare facilities often contain patients who may be ill with a communicable disease, such as cold, flu, or coronavirus. Telehealth services reduce the risk of exposure by allowing patients to remain safely at home and away from others who may be ill.
Telehealth services have been found to improve the health of patients in a variety of ways. Patients can generally expect better outcomes due to faster access to providers and specialists. Telehealth also reduces the number of unnecessary admissions and readmissions by allowing providers to diagnose, treat, and monitor patients at home. Telehealth allows providers to extend their reach to patients who may require their expertise but would have otherwise missed out due to factors like location, mobility issues, and lack of transportation.
Approximately 3.6 million Americans delay or miss medical care appointments due to a lack of transportation, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL). Telehealth services eliminate the need for transportation, as well as time spent sitting in traffic. Patients can also avoid paying for parking, gas, and public transportation. Most telehealth appointments last just 15 minutes, according to U.S. News contributor Purvi Parikh, M.D., allowing patients to get the medical care they need during breaks or at lunch. Patients also do not have to miss work or use vacation days to visit with their provider.