There’s no denying that COVID-19’s impact has been one of the greatest moving forces for the recent progression and optimization of healthcare management systems. Due to the many challenges of the coronavirus pandemic, many healthcare institutions have had to overhaul and upgrade their internal processes to address their patients’ needs. Thankfully, telemedicine answers many of the potential complications of face-to-face interactions.
The threat of face-to-face interactions in the time of COVID-19
After over a year’s worth of dealing with the nightmare of the COVID-19 pandemic, advancements in the healthcare industry have finally led to mass vaccinations. Many nations worldwide are purchasing vaccines in bulk to initiate vaccination programs to eliminate the threat of COVID-19 gradually. Unfortunately, the current conditions could not be any worse as different coronavirus strains are developing in multiple regions across the world.
Although there is no evidence yet of these strains manifesting deadliner symptoms, the public is still on their guard to reinforce safety protocols. These strict healthcare codes need to remain, even for patients who don’t have COVID-19. Most healthcare facilities will be packed full of patients receiving their vaccines. Because of this, there’s not much opportunity for patients with other illnesses to get the medical attention they need. In response, telemedicine quickly rose in popularity as a solution that bridged healthcare providers and patients in need.
The growing need for telemedicine
Telemedicine lets patients meet with their respective healthcare professionals through phone or video. This makes health care providers more accessible to patients who are at risk of going outdoors to receive a consultation from their physicians. These video visits allow doctors to take down medical histories and even guide particular aspects of physical exams. Although it’s not a complete replacement for in-person care, it’s a huge step in advising and diagnosing patients with their conditions.
Physical therapists, in particular, can make full use of telemedicine’s processes to guide their patients to recovery. Although they’re restricted from performing hands-on manipulation, these healthcare experts can oversee their patients’ treatment plans by conducting regular consultations. Through these sessions, they can demonstrate PT techniques and physical exercises simultaneously with their patients to improve their health.
The adaptation to telemedicine
You don’t have to be an expert at using digital devices to experience the benefit of telemedicine. Arranging a video visit with your physician is possible through a simple and easy-to-use app, enabling phone calls to replace in-person visits and routine follow-ups. Unlike in previous years, telemedicine will feel more natural to patients since they’re using everyday technology that’s accessible to all.
As patients become more comfortable in using similar platforms for other purposes, the learning curve of integrating telemedicine will no longer be a significant obstacle. Many patients are becoming more tech-savvy, even for senior individuals. This is primarily because there is plenty of information and references on the internet on using these platforms. However, it’s still necessary for healthcare institutions to provide administrative support in coordinating appointments.
Conclusion
Telemedicine is a welcome addition and optimization of traditional healthcare management processes. Even in a life post-COVID-19, there’s no doubt that it will be an integral part of improving out-patient care practices for patients and doctors alike. The growing need for telemedicine is becoming more apparent, with patients finding it increasingly more difficult to meet their physicians in person. Thankfully, technological advancements are paving the way for accessible healthcare with a touch of a button.
Staying in contact with your physician is even more urgent now than ever before. Our board-certified physician can give you the appropriate medical advice for your specific condition. If you’re looking for a primary care doctor in North Bergen, NJ, to diagnose and monitor your health, contact us today!