The 21st century has brought about the fastest advancements in technology over the shortest period possible. This can be primarily attributed to the creation and spread of the internet. The internet has eased communication, making it possible for people in different regions to compare ideas, thus decreasing research times. Also, information can be easily accessed by anyone with the need. You can also put your information and knowledge publicly for people to benefit from. The development of telehealth in Rockville is one of the examples discussed in the article below.
What is meant by Telehealth?
Telehealth means using communication technologies and digital information like mobile phones and computers to get to health care services and manage your health care. You may use these technological advancements at the comfort of your home, or your physician may require them to support or improve medical care services.
Telehealth can assist in dealing with various conditions affecting your body. Diabetes management as an example can be enhanced through ways that include:
- Watching a video concerning carbohydrate counting or even getting an app to use on your phone
- Using a mobile device to upload medications, food logs, dosing, and blood sugar levels that may be reviewed by a health care specialist who offers their responses electronically
- Use an online patient portal to get your test results, request prescription refills, schedule appointments, or communicate with your physician
- Using an app to roughly find out how much insulin you may require based on your diet
- Getting a screening of your retina via a photo at your physician’s office instead of having to visit a specialist
- Ordering of medications and testing supplies and apparatus online
- Getting reminders via text, email, or your mobile phone whenever you may require a foot exam, flu shot, or any other preventive care services
Telehealth has developed with various goals in mind. Some of the main ones include:
- Make medical services convenient or readily available for patients with limited time, mobility, or transportation problems
- Enable access to healthcare by people who live in isolated or rural areas
- Improve coordination and communication of medical care for members of a healthcare team and their patients
- Provision of access to medical specialists who may be hard to get available
- Providing support for the self-management of medical care
Examples of telehealth services are as follows:
Patient Portal
An online portal provides a platform to:
- Request prescription refills
- Enable communication between a patient and their doctor or nurse
- Schedule or request appointments and their reminders
- Review summaries and test results of previous visits
Remote monitoring
This includes:
- Wireless devices to transmit information like blood glucose or blood pressure
- Mobile apps for uploading vital health information like blood glucose readings
- Home monitoring devices for people with dementia or older people
The internet and related technological advancements do not necessarily have to be used for entertainment. It may also be appropriately used in medical healthcare to help patients’ quality of life. To learn more about Telemedicine, check out our website or call our offices in Rockville, MD.
