Is telehealth right for you?
Learn more about the benefits and disadvantages of telehealth.
In the age of Covid-19 online communication has been taken to the next level. Working from home has become a regular occurrence as well as virtual events. At home, convenience has also influenced how we handle our health. Many physicians have given their patients the option to utilize telehealth. But, what is telehealth?
According to telehealth.hhs.gov, “Telehealth — sometimes called telemedicine — is the use of electronic information and telecommunication technologies to provide care when you and the doctor are not in the same place at the same time.” You might be asking yourself is, is a form of communication right for me and my health? Read on to learn more about the benefits and disadvantages of telehealth.
Benefits
No commuting back and forth between your home and your physician’s office
The ability to connect with physicians who are further away and not in your local area
The ease of being able to communicate with your doctor wherever and whenever you want
Limit’s exposure to contracting COVID-19 or another virus
Eliminates wait times at the doctor’s office
At-home monitoring – older adults can benefit from 24/7 monitoring to receive reminders to take their medication, exercise, etc.
Disadvantages
Many tests need to be done in-office, like physical exams, blood work, and x-rays
The security of your health records being transferred over the internet
Patients must have a connection to the internet and a computer, tablet, or smartphone to connect with their provider
Your insurance might not cover telehealth and could lead to out-of-pocket payments
Patients must be somewhat computer-literate (able to operate a computer on their own)
Technology glitches
Weighing the pros and cons of telehealth is essential before using it as your primary source of communication with your doctor. As always, consult with your physician before deciding what course of treatment is suitable for you.
Start tracking your doctor’s visits, whether online or in-person, with Cix Health’s Events Tracker – start monitoring here.