What Exactly is Telehealth/Telemedicine

What is telehealth/telemedicine? In a nutshell, it is a convenient way for patients to receive quality medical care. Patients may have appointments via a telephone call or live on video. Both methods allow medical providers to discuss sensitive health information and determine if a higher level of medical care is necessary or if they can provide appropriate care/medications through the virtual visit. Although telehealth has been around for decades in less formal forms, the practice has become more widely accepted in recent years. Technology has also been adapted to improve the experience for patients and provider. Telehealth may include advice nurse calls, chronic illness management by medical providers including physicians, physician assistants, nurse practitioners, and nurse midwives. If this method of healthcare has been around for a while, why have we just started taking advantage of using it? The answer is, COVID-19.

Although telehealth/telemedicine has been around for some time, it was not accepted with open arms by the medical community. Most appointments were not covered by insurance and when they were, it required adherence to strict guidelines. Also, some patients did not generally accept telehealth with open arms either. The recent COVID-19 pandemic changed the face of telehealth and ushered in widespread acceptance. Patients required medical care for ongoing conditions. Due to the social distancing mandates, patients were not receiving timely care. One effective way to allow timely access to care was through telehealth. The pandemic helped medical professionals and patients understand that many medical conditions can be managed with minimal in person visits. In fact, many patients began to favor telehealth and encouraged the healthcare system to continue the practice after the restrictions were lifted.

Today, millions of people continue to receive the majority of their care through telehealth. As a medical professional, it is my goal to facilitate access to quick medical care through telehealth visits while ensuring patients are directed towards in person care when necessary. Telehealth/telemedicine may also be instrumental in providing medical care for patients who may have difficulty accessing in person appointments due to distance or lack of providers in their vicinity. . It may also facilitate visits for those who have special developmental challenges and may have difficulty functioning around others or in highly stimulating environments.

I hope to develop a strong bond and relationship with my patients and eventually become their primary care resource! But until then, please continue to be safe and follow the advice of your current medical professional. I look forward to being your healthcare provider!

~Shelly, FNP-BC