In recent years, telemedicine has transformed the landscape of healthcare, offering patients and healthcare providers an innovative and convenient way to connect. This shift has been accelerated by advancements in technology, the need for accessible healthcare, and the unprecedented challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. In this blog, we’ll discuss exactly what telemedicine is and the many benefits it offers.
What Is Telemedicine?
Telemedicine, also known as telehealth, is a healthcare practice that involves the use of technology to provide medical services remotely. It allows patients to consult with healthcare professionals, receive diagnoses and treatment recommendations, and even undergo therapy or monitoring without the need for in-person visits to a healthcare facility.
The pioneers of using video communication in a medical context were clinicians affiliated with the University of Nebraska. In 1959, the university implemented a two-way television system to relay information to medical students within the campus. Within five years, they expanded their efforts by partnering with a state hospital to conduct video consultations.
Forms of Telemedicine
Telemedicine does not just mean video calling with your doctor, it encompasses a wide range of healthcare services delivered through various technology platforms, including the following:
- Video Chats: Patients and healthcare providers can have real-time, face-to-face consultations via video calls. This is particularly useful for discussions of symptoms, treatment options, and follow-up visits.
- Phone Calls: Telephone consultations are a basic form of telemedicine, where patients can discuss their health concerns with healthcare professionals over the phone. This method is often used for triage, providing medical advice, or addressing non-urgent issues.
- Secure Messaging: Patients can communicate with healthcare providers through secure messaging apps or online portals. This is useful for sharing information, asking questions, and receiving responses at a convenient time.
- Remote Monitoring: Patients with chronic conditions can use wearable devices and sensors to monitor their vital signs and health metrics with data transmitted to healthcare providers for analysis and intervention as needed. Examples of this include wristbands and heart monitors.
The Benefits of Telemedicine
Telemedicine offers many benefits, making it a valuable addition to modern healthcare. Here are just a few key advantages:
- It has improved access to healthcare, ensuring that patients can access medical care regardless of their location. This is particularly important for individuals in rural areas who may have limited access to healthcare facilities.
- Patients no longer need to spend hours commuting or waiting in crowded waiting rooms. Telemedicine appointments can be scheduled at a convenient time, reducing the time and effort required for a doctor’s visit.
- Telemedicine can be more cost-effective than traditional healthcare, as it decreases transportation costs, childcare expenses, and time off work.
- With the help of wearable devices and remote monitoring tools, healthcare providers can track patients' vital signs and health metrics in real-time, allowing for early intervention and personalized care plans.
- Telemedicine can provide rapid access to healthcare professionals, reducing the time patients have to wait for an appointment. This is crucial for addressing acute medical issues and preventing delays in diagnosis and treatment.
Though there are many benefits, telehealth may not be suitable for every individual or medical condition. It's essential to have a conversation with your healthcare provider to thoroughly explore any potential drawbacks or risks.
Does My Insurance Cover Telemedicine?
Many insurance providers have initiated coverage for telemedicine services. However, telemedicine coverage differs significantly from one state to another, with its definition and payment structure variations. Given the disparities in insurance coverage policies, it's crucial to verify the most current information about telemedicine coverage by directly contacting your insurance providers or reaching out to your healthcare provider's billing department.
TRICARE covers telehealth services that they deem “medically necessary.” While this is a fairly vague phrase, it’s important to check in advance to make sure your request fits the requirements. To help with medical expenses that aren’t 100% covered, TRICARE members can add GEA’s TRICARE Supplement Insurance plan and find the cost through our cost estimate calculator. Our supplemental insurance plan helps reduce or eliminate costs for prescription medications, excess charges, co-pays, and more. For more information, download our TRICARE Supplemental Insurance Info Guide or speak to a specialist!
