In primary care, telemedicine often takes the form of phone calls where patients seek advice from doctors about non-emergency medical issues that do not require in-person visits. Telemedicine complements, rather than replaces, face-to-face consultations when they are necessary.
The primary advantage of telemedicine is the convenience it offers both patients and practitioners by eliminating the need for physical visits for medical advice or treatment. It is also more cost-effective compared to waiting for a doctor’s appointment.
Telemedicine is particularly valuable for triaging urgent calls after office hours and for following up with patients who have chronic conditions such as diabetes, high cholesterol, or high blood pressure. These patients, who may not have immediate medical issues but need help with medication adjustments, lifestyle changes, prescription refills, or group support, benefit significantly from the convenience of telemedicine.
Telemedicine consultations can be scheduled to follow necessary laboratory tests or vital sign monitoring. While telemedicine has been practiced for a long time, the advent of broadband internet technology has made audio and video calls more affordable and accessible, making telemedicine a feasible alternative to traditional healthcare systems.
Important Terms in Telemedicine
Telemedicine services are provided from a hub, where the distant practitioner delivers care through a telecommunications system. Initially, specialized videoconferencing equipment with diagnostic peripherals like stethoscopes or EKG monitors was required. The healthcare provider at the patient’s location would use these tools under the distant physician’s guidance to provide necessary patient data.
Nowadays, telemedicine typically uses desktop computers equipped with special video cards, which securely store data. High-speed telephone lines or satellite connections enable interaction between both locations.
The patient is at the originating or spoke site, receiving services through a telecommunications system, often with the help of a telepresenter.
Telemedicine encompasses various services beyond real-time interactive telecommunication, such as store-and-forward, where images are stored and forwarded for consultation, and remote monitoring.
Benefits of Telemedicine
Telemedicine requires minimal investment, primarily a webcam and a secure patient portal that connects to an electronic medical record database. This system ensures the privacy of the information discussed during telemedicine calls and allows clinicians to store medical records securely. Physicians also need a medical license from the same state where the patient receives care.
Supporters of telemedicine highlight its convenience, reduced waiting times, expanded access to high-quality medical diagnosis and treatment, and lower costs compared to traditional consultations. The online availability of patient records also enhances the reliability and accuracy of prescriptions.
Telemedicine facilitates quicker and easier second opinions, improving the patient and physician experience and leading to better health outcomes. Studies comparing telemedicine with other patient management approaches show significant benefits, particularly in teleradiology, telemental health, telecardiology (especially echocardiography), home telecare, and teledermatology. However, further research is needed to provide more evidence on the benefits and cost-effectiveness of telemedicine.