What is Telehealth?
Telehealth is an overarching term for the application of digital communications and technology in healthcare. We most commonly use the term “telehealth” to mean video-based counseling sessions. This usually refers to when a provider and client can see one another in real-time via video capabilities that are HIPAA-compliant.
The Growth Of Telehealth in Healthcare
Telehealth has the potential to have a staggering impact on healthcare in America. Clients are catching on to the appeal of telehealth appointments.
According to a 2017 survey completed by American Well, 66% of Americans are willing to see a clinician via telehealth. Even more – 50 million Americans, up from 17 million in 2015 – would switch healthcare providers to have access to video check-ins.
Here Are 3 Reasons to Try Telehealth for Yourself and Your Family
1. Virtual telehealth sessions are convenient
The majority of Americans cope with some nutrition-related chronic disease. However, most of these people cannot receive the nutritional care they deserve. You will love being able to access the assistance you need with virtual appointments.
Telehealth brings you into your provider's office without you taking the time to travel, and without having to pack up small children or elderly parents in the car. This convenience helps clients who live in rural communities, but also busy urban populations that do not have time for a traditional office visit. Icy winter roads are no longer a problem either. Telehealth also means you don't have to expose yourself, or others, to illnesses in waiting rooms.
2. Telehealth sessions can be more affordable
Telehealth makes providing and receiving nutritional care more cost-effective. Video conferencing eliminates the need to rent formal office space, trims travel costs, and utilizes existing business expenses – like internet and a HIPAA-compliant platform (like Healthie). Insurance companies are beginning to see the immense value of telehealth services and appropriately increasing reimbursement. As an example, Medicare covers medical nutrition therapy (MNT) delivered through telehealth for patients living in rural areas, and is starting to expand their coverage. Recent legislation even increased coverage for telehealth services, including telemonitoring and medication therapy management in the list of Medicare-covered areas.
3. Experience increased accountability and support
Since telehealth makes it easier to communicate, you can stay in constant contact with your provider. Video appointments are a great tool for fast check-ins between in-person sessions, or a simpler way to offer more frequent follow-up appointments.
And staying engaged is essential for positive health outcomes. Behavioral health changes are easier to achieve when you have this technology integrated into your self-care appointments.
As more clients become comfortable with the idea of telehealth appointments, it is important for providers to have safe and secure technology (like Healthie) that enables telehealth at the ready.