Over the past several years, we have taken advantage of evolving technologies to interact with friends and family, work remotely from home, and connect professionally via synchronous meetings. With the introduction of video conferencing to the personal and professional worlds, it is possible to connect with people across the globe from the comfort of your own home.
Technology: Changing the healthcare industry one meeting at a time
Even the most stubbornly resistant to change and technology integration are now beginning to see the value in offering telehealth services for their patients. The use of phones, tablets, and computers to connect with patients is now becoming standard practice across the United States and beyond. As telehealth continues to evolve, health care practitioners, therapists, and specialists seek efficient and comprehensive ways to engage with their patients. With some wonderful work being done via the world wide web, here are some reasons that telehealth therapy is becoming a viable and wonderful option for patients:
1. It helps to manage chronic, ongoing conditions
Those patients who have a need for ongoing care and difficulty getting to a physical location can easily connect with their caregivers online. Video visits reduce the amount of effort and time it takes to connect physically, and it becomes easier for them to comply with their treatment plans. Additional benefits exist for those who feel the need to reach out in times of distress, for it becomes easier for a therapist to manage these in-between sessions that may pop up from time to time.
2. It helps to provide opportunities for regular follow up
Follow-up visits and regular, ongoing care may be a struggle for those that struggle with anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues. Knowing that they can connect to their caregivers from the comfort and convenience of their own home takes additional pressure off these appointments, making it more likely that a regular schedule of care will be followed.
3. Patient confidentiality is easier
Mental health processes should be conducted with the utmost integrity when it comes to providing patient confidentiality and comfort. With the one-on-one option for virtual office visits, a patient and therapist can develop a cohesive working relationship in which mutual trust and appreciation for one another fosters a more open working space. Any test results that must be discussed can be done in the privacy of a patient’s home, and decisions about care going forward can be made with confidence that only doctor and patient are involved.
4. It provides a safe space for difficult visits
Studies have consistently proven that telehealth therapies are an effective way to treat anxiety, depression, and other mental health conditions. Video visits are also a great option for patients who are either unable or unwilling to seek in-person care. Virtual visits also allow providers to see more patients daily, helping to increase the effectiveness of this type of service. Telehealth therapy can also be used successfully to treat Post Traumatic Stress Disorder with little to no loss of effectiveness when compared to in-person care.
5. It makes medication management efficient
With pharmacy delivery services and telehealth therapy services at our fingertips, medication management becomes easier and more efficient. Providing your therapist with accurate information will allow them to make decisions regarding ongoing medication needs, and the use of a delivery service allows you to receive the medication that you need, all without ever leaving the comfort and safety of your home.
6. It provides better are following hospitalizations
After admission to a hospital for a medical procedure or illness, it can be extremely difficult for a patient to travel to a physical location for therapy. Video consultations are a perfect way to ensure that ongoing care can be administered without missing a beat. Your therapist can make a determination of your well-being and response to treatment while taking steps to avoid stepping off your care path.
Telehealth allows for more “face to face” time with patients. It reduces potential roadblocks to treatment, and allows for a more comprehensive plan that works for all. The end result of this type of care is a healthier, happier, more satisfied patient who become their own best advocates for treatment and wellness.
Learn More About Telehealth Therapy.