With the ongoing pandemic, the normal livelihood of humans has changed in many ways. Given the current scenario, it is difficult for patients to seek in-patient care. Also, medical care and facilities majorly focus on treating COVID patients more. Thus, avoiding any risk of exposure to the virus to non-infected patients. However, the much-needed rightful support comes via Telehealthcare. As we move towards a new normal, it is important to accept and understand the importance of online telehealth services. Today, both health and general insurers try to include telemedicine in policy claim settlements as well.

What are telehealth services?  

To define telehealth services, it is the distribution of health-related services, both physical and mental, via electronic information and telecommunication technologies. It provides you with health care services and helps manage your health within the comfort of your homes. Be it ordering medication or consulting online therapy or virtual appointments, telehealth services covers it all. Additionally, several primary health care clinics have now availed an online patient portal, enabling telehealth services such as – online therapy consultation. Not to mention, these services overcome the barriers like – the distance between provider and patient, access to transportation, fragmented care caused due to gaps in appointments, and lack of healthcare access. 

How is Telehealth different from PHCS?

PHCS is the private healthcare system that looks after patient care and provides healthcare resources to those in need. Adding on, it is one of the best healthcare tools that focuses on improved clinical outcomes, increased efficiency, a better quality of care, and enhanced patient satisfaction. Primary healthcare services involve prevention, health promotion, and treatment. However, it is the only health services available to the marginalized communities and deals with rehabilitation and palliation. It is an approach that moves away from overspecialization and focuses more on the person rather than the disease. 

Here is when we cater to telehealth services. With their affordable online counseling, Telehealth services put the need of their patients first, providing the best healthcare facilities. You may consult with the finest doctors within the comfort of your homes, irrespective of their location. Did we mention high priority patient care ensuing privacy too? Yes, online telehealth services allow patients to choose their own doctor and also ensure a trustworthy relationship between the care provider and patient. 

Telehealth services cheaper than PHCS

·         Costs comparison and saves time

Telehealth services have conveniently adapted a system with improved efficiency of healthcare delivery, reduced expenses involving patient care, or transporting them to a different location. Moreover, it is much cheaper and economically affordable as compared to in-patient care. These services help keep patients out of the hospital via regular monitoring and timely interventions. While a traditional in-person hospital visit generally costs about $176 per visit, a telehealth appointment will cost between $40 to $50. Individuals struggling with chronic diseases can save money using telehealth services instead of costly and time-consuming in-person visits. As online telehealth services provide at-home monitoring and virtual communications. Thus, cutting costs, affordable online counseling monitors patients at home and reduce the number of days spent in the hospital. 

·         Transportation costs and an efficient system

Another reason why telehealth services are affordable and cheap is cutting down transportation costs. Using digital platforms, you can consult and receive a diagnosis via sending images, uploading files related to the concerned tests. Moreover, it increases your access to proper healthcare facilities. Also, making medical appointments is easier to obtain and less time-consuming. Although PHCS may focus on multidisciplinary teams, it is not always a reasonable option when it comes to health services. Telehealth services help bridge geographical barriers, connecting you more easily and rapidly with a specialist. Additionally, it is marking its territory all over the rural area, favoring the needs of the people who do not have access to legitimate medical care. 

Today, opting for digital mode is the best way to avoid crowds, traffic, long waiting periods at the hospital, and increased chances of infection. And telehealth services make it possible to reach out to proper medical services within the comfort of your home. Another important thing to keep in mind is, if you avail for in-person patient care, you may be able to access the doctors available only in your location. Thus, there might be a chance that you may not avail yourself the best care rather settle down to what is available then and there. Not to mention, online therapy consultation saves up time, money and reduces additional costs such as transportation, fueling etc.