The Future of Healthcare: A Guide to Embracing Telehealth Options

Telehealth usage increased dramatically during the global pandemic, and it is rapidly becoming an integral part of the healthcare system. What does the future hold for this technology? How might it improve patient care and accessibility while streamlining healthcare operations? 

Emerging Technologies

Emerging technologies play a role in providing telehealth options today. AI is being used to diagnose patients and develop treatment plans. Chatbots are used to conduct patient screenings and determine the level of care needed, while the Internet of Medical Things allows patients to collect health data at home and share it with their medical teams. If problems are seen, the team can react quickly for better patient outcomes. 

Many healthcare providers today rely on 5G networks for telehealth video visits. These networks are extremely reliable and offer faster data speeds and lower latency. Video latency can be under 2 milliseconds, allowing virtual visits to simulate in-patient visits. Medical professionals effortlessly transmit large files, and video connections are more reliable in remote areas. 

Virtual and augmented reality are being used more in telehealth. VR may be used during physical therapy and pain management visits, while surgeons use augmented reality to assist them during procedures. This technology is also used for immersive mental health treatments, medical training, and education. 

Expanding Care

Underserved populations benefit significantly from telehealth. When people think of underserved communities, they often visualize remote and rural areas across the country. However, some underserved populations are found in urban, suburban, and rural environments. Mental health professionals remain in short supply, and telehealth options allow individuals to access professionals anywhere in the country. Telehealth also benefits those with transportation and mobility barriers. 

Patients may use telehealth to obtain second opinions from medical experts. They won’t have to travel to receive this second opinion, greatly benefiting people with rare or complex diseases. Mayo Clinic currently offers an eConsults program for virtual second opinions, and many people already take advantage of it. 

Personalized Medicine

Every person is unique. Telehealth can be used with other digital health technologies to meet a patient’s needs. Wearable devices allow individuals to share information with their medical teams regularly, so changes can be made to their treatment plans when problems are seen. Medical professionals may turn to AI to analyze this information and determine health risks so that they can intervene early when needed. Patients may choose to undergo genetic testing and counseling remotely. Doctors can use the results to create tailored treatment plans. For example, this testing may show doctors which medications will be most effective. 

Medication Management

Telehealth options can ensure that patients adhere to their medication schedule. When patients don’t, healthcare costs rise, and outcomes worsen. Medical teams may use telehealth options to send patients reminders to take medications or adjust medication regimens remotely. Smart pill bottles and ingestible sensors are other ways medical professionals use telehealth for medication management. 

Telehealth has advanced dramatically recently, and innovations are being introduced regularly. However, rules and regulations must be followed when using this technology. Reimbursement policies may need to be reviewed, and sensitive data must be secured. No one wants to learn that their personal health information is available for anyone to see. Licensing regulations must be addressed to ensure patients can access care across state lines, and all individuals must have access to the technology needed for telehealth. While progress has been made in recent years, there is still a long way to go.