The dramatic impact of increased telemedicine in the covid-19era

The novel coronavirus has struck the global population in harsher ways than anyone could’ve expected. That being said, with advancements in the telemedicine sector getting sped up, the field of telemedicine and telehealth has significantly benefited from this outbreak. While people have either chosen or been forced to remain restricted to their houses, the use of telemedicine has increased. Even though hospitals are open for the public at all times, people now prefer to stay at home to get treated.

The need for telemedicine

Telemedicine has played a huge role in revolutionizing the healthcare system, especially during the coronavirus. Over time, the need for telemedicine has been created amongst the population, mainly because it makes healthcare easily accessible. Modifications in technology have made it easier to contact doctors and physicians, making treatment possible through a smartphone. There is an urgent requirement of telemedicine in rural and distant areas where specialized treatment is not possible. Doctors can connect with patients through video or audio calls and diagnose the problem or even begin basic treatment.

With the arrival and rapid global spread of COVID-19, people have become more aware of the concept of telemedicine and its usage. Telemedicine was in a developing stage, in which it was not quite popular among the masses, but due to recent events, it has become a need. Hospitals and public spaces are more dangerous than ever, and if people face health issues, they can easily rely on telemedicine to contact a physician and get swift treatment. Fortunately, technology has also made it possible for doctors to hand out e-prescriptions online and schedule lab tests.

Telemedicine benefits and disadvantages

Keeping in mind the current state of life with COVID-19, telemedicine has made it possible for both doctors and patients to remain protected. With a higher risk of getting infected, physicians and doctors prefer telehealth to tackle the growing number of patients during this time. Even though telemedicine has existed for over 40 years, the fear of catching the coronavirus has led to patients switching to virtual healthcare. Most importantly, telemedicine helps save bed space and medical supplies. With severe patients being treated at hospitals, others are kept at bay to lower the risk of infection while treating them at home. However, certain equipment is necessary for doctors to conduct their telemedicine sessions, which can be equally costly. Time is precious, and telehealth keeps that in mind. Doctors can end up saving their time by using telemedicine since they don’t have to stay at the hospital until after work hours to look at patients and can also minimize their timings for each patient through telehealth. Another important benefit of telemedicine is that doctors feel relaxed and observe patients with more ease. With no rush and chaos at the hospital or clinic, doctors can give their full attention to a patient and treat them.

Even though telemedicine provides ease and safety to users, it comes with its disadvantages. Many illnesses and conditions cannot be treated through virtual care alone and require in-person treatment from the doctor. This leads to another disadvantage that diagnosis through telemedicine may not entirely be accurate since seeing a doctor physically is much different than through a video call. Telemedicine might be a lifesaver, but it requires substantial investment, and many small facilities might be unable to provide telehealth services to people around them. Technology keeps on getting updated with various innovations coming out each day, but these cannot be applied until some hefty costs are paid. Telemedicine can help diagnose illnesses and develop treatments for various diseases, but this comes with a big price tag attached to it, which not everyone can pay.

Telemedicine against COVID-19

Telehealth has become a priority for patients during COVID-19, especially for those who face the virus’s symptoms and require treatment at home. The situation has been highly challenging for both doctors and patients, but with the support of telemedicine, it has become possible to look after patients virtually. Using a smartphone, patients can contact a doctor and, if tested positive for COVID-19, can undergo treatment while remaining at home. A large number of patients have managed to recover through this method while isolated at home. 

Telemedicine has braved a war against the coronavirus, making it possible for people to stay calm and receive healthcare services for many diseases. It has played a huge role in confining people to their houses rather than stepping out in public spaces, which have a higher risk of infection.If you are considering telemedicine, or would like to provide expert consultations online without the hassle and risks of physical patient visits, SmartClinix can serve as an ideal forum where complete customized telemedicine solutions are available for all kinds of medical practices.