Telemedicine: more popular than ever

What was science fiction just a few years ago is now so commonplace that people of all generations are embracing it as a cost-effective way to have minor health issues resolved: telemedicine.

Getting patients more involved with their healthcare choices is a cornerstone of today’s telemedicine efforts. Healthcare no longer consists of a physician communicating solely with the hospital.

From 2016 to 2017 alone, the practice grew by 53 percent worldwide with no signs of slowing. Although radiology has been the primary driver of its adoption, with over 5 million patients having received their diagnostic test results from an off-site specialist, other specialties are beginning to implement telemedicine, as well.

A recent study found that patients who had their implanted pacemakers or defibrillators monitored remotely were twice as likely to survive until the end of the study period as patients who didn’t. That’s actually staggering if you stop to think about it.

While quality of care improvements are at the vanguard of telemedicine adoption, cost reduction is where providers see big benefits. Patients with chronic conditions can be kept out of the hospital or emergency room by utilizing remote communication. Rather than waiting on a patient to report something is wrong, remote monitoring of vital signs on a regular basis keeps physicians constantly aware of their patients’ conditions.

As technology continues to revolutionize healthcare, expect more providers to embrace telemedicine. Soon you may be spending fewer hours at your doctor’s office and more chatting with them in the comfort of your home.