Remote Healthcare Services are Growing

Over the past few years, there have been tremendous advancements and growth in the virtual world. Due to the 2020 pandemic, the need for and use of remote learning, working, and even healthcare resources have expanded drastically. Although the technology for virtual meetings was present long before the pandemic, the healthcare industry has had the largest adaptation of them all, in the form of TeleHealth services. 

Surprisingly, TeleHealth was first used the 1920s when physicians diagnosed patients by telephone and radio. While this form of treatment has been present for quite a while, there has been much change specifically in the past three years. From growth in technology to acceptance and higher utilization, TeleHealth services are growing. 

But just how far have these services advanced and where will they go? 

Benefits of TeleHealth Services

- The ease of scheduling and meeting with a provider has advanced by leaps and bounds. Those seeking appointments can meet with a physician during lunch breaks, the kids’ nap times, or anytime - from the comfort of their home or office. 

- This technology has provided access to care especially in remote areas where patients would normally have to drive far distances to see a healthcare provider. 

- After the COVID-19 pandemic, people have become more aware of social distancing and quarantining, especially those who are considered to be "at risk". The technology of TeleHealth has provided the availability of care for when you are feeling under the weather. 

- The effortlessness created through virtual care allows for the treatment and maintenance of health - mental and physical. The result is a happier and healthier lifestyle. 

How has it grown and expanded?

- Video conference platforms have been created solely to meet with medical professionals. This helps to guarantee privacy and safety for the patient and the professional. 

- After mass quarantines and work-from-home orders, there was a need for better processing speeds across most platforms. This need was met through the availability of TeleHealth professionals. These professionals have been able to guarantee smooth and uninterrupted appointments. As a bonus, depending on the provider those sessions could be free. 

- Mental health also became of focus with people more separated from their loved ones and learning to live in a vastly different time. TeleHealth was able to expand its offering to include TeleMental needs. TeleMental service offers patients the ability to speak with licensed counselors or therapists via video, phone, or even text messaging. This service has provided users with real-time support in their moments of need. Most importantly, they can do so without having to stop, make an appointment, and travel to an office. 

Where it’s going

When it comes to the workplace, there has been a new level of support and even promotion from employers for the well-being of their employees. Whether it be a quiet workspace, personal days, or health insurance, employers are now seeing the importance of supporting their teams health. Not only does it help to attract and retain valuable employees, but it also helps the team to work better together. With the adoption of these practices, TeleHealth and TeleMental services are growing daily and will continue to expand in technology and availability. 

If you are curious about TeleHealth or TeleMental services and how to make sure your team is well supported, check out association heatlhcare.com. As a chamber member you may have access to both of these services for free through Prosper Benefits, which is available with select plans or as a stand-alone option at Chambers of FL Healthcare. To take part in this quickly growing service, schedule a call with your trusted healthcare advisor today!