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Telemedicine is referred to as remote delivery of health care services using advanced telecommunications technology. It allows health care professionals to evaluate, diagnose and treat patients at a distance using electronic audio and video means. Telemedicine has been trending since the COVID- 19 pandemic as it allowed people to communicate with physicians without requiring a patient to come into a doctor’s clinic. The fear of individuals exposing them to the virus has encouraged them to adopt this technology quickly. However, the roots of telemedicine can be traced back centuries and today it is used by more than 50% hospitals in the United States.

The concept of telemedicine is not new, in fact, it has been in use since the 19th century, when telegraph was used to order medical supplies as well as reporting casualties and injuries during the U.S. Civil War. In 1950’s, two health centers in Pennsylvania about 24 miles apart were able to transmit first radiologic images via telephone line. Then, in 1959, clinicians at the University of Nebraska transmitted neurological examinations across campus to medical students using two way interactive television.

Today, due to the ongoing crisis, healthcare institutes consider telemedicine services as an ideal solution to prevent exposure to the virus. Just like a regular doctor’s appointment, telemedicine services are also private and confidential.

What are the benefits of Telemedicine?

• Telemedicine allows doctor-patient communication in real time and prevents non-urgent healthcare visits. The patient doesn’t have to take a day off for an appointment.
• Telemedicine can overcome geographical barriers. People from rural areas can have access to varied specialty services without travelling long distances for an in-person visit.
• It is cost effective as it saves the collateral cost of hospital stay and commute.
• It eliminates unnecessary ER visits which further reduce exposure to contagious patients.
• Availability of patient electronic medical record (EMR) makes prescription more accurate and reliable and allows patients to connect with their doctor more frequently.
• Telemedicine providers like Credence Medicure allows patients to seek a second opinion from experts.

Limitations

Telemedicine does have few downsides, such as: * With telemedicine, it is not possible to conduct tests that require hands- on examination. You may still need an in-person appointment for the clear diagnosis. * Only few services are covered under insurance. * Telemedicine certainly decreases the doctor- patient interaction which might concern those looking for a family doctor.

Is Telemedicine the same as Telehealth?

No, many people even healthcare providers often use Telemedicine and Telehealth interchangeably. Basically, telemedicine is a subset of telehealth. Telehealth refers to remote non-clinical services such as continuing education of healthcare providers and consumers, research and evaluation whereas telemedicine refers to remote clinical services.

How to connect to a healthcare provider?

As technology has advanced, the way telemedicine is delivered has also changed. Consultation doesn’t necessarily require a computer. All you need is an electronic device (mobile phone, tab or laptop) with good internet connection and a secure patient portal with Electronic Medical Record (EMR) capabilities. After logging into the portal you will fill in some personal details and medical history and then schedule an appointment with the services you need. The remote patient will be connected to a registered medical practitioner at the selected time slot. Services can be provided through video conferencing, e-mail or phone messaging. However, at Credence we mainly prefer video conferencing for the better and easier communication. We remind and update patients regarding their consultations via email. Upon completing the consultation, your doctor will provide you with the Electronic Medical Report.

When to use Telemedicine?

Telemedicine can be used for anything from consulting a physician for conditions as small as allergy to receiving a birth control prescription. However, it should not be used in emergency conditions such as heart attack or a condition that requires hands- on examination. Telemedicine is suitable for allergies, Covid-19 screening, Diabetes, Hypertension, Depression/ Anxiety, Seasonal flu, Blood Pressure, Constipation, Nutrition counselling, Physical Therapy, Psychotherapy.