Telehealth
Telehealth has become an essential tool in improving healthcare access, particularly for individuals in rural areas or regions with limited healthcare providers. For people living in remote areas, traveling long distances to see a healthcare professional can be a significant barrier to receiving timely care. It can also be an issue for those with disabilities, chronic conditions, or those without transportation regardless of region. Telehealth eliminates this challenge by allowing patients to consult with healthcare providers from the comfort of their homes, reducing the need for travel and ensuring access to continuous care.
Provider shortages are becoming challenging even in cities where access should be easier. Telehealth can be an answer to people having to travel to find providers or simply going without care. This is especially crucial in fields like behavioral health, where a shortage of mental health specialists can leave many patients without the care they need.
Innovation in telehealth has also played a key role in making these services more accessible. Advances in technology, such as improved video conferencing tools, mobile health apps, and secure patient portals, have enhanced the user experience. Increased broadband connectivity and more affordable devices are expanding access to telehealth, particularly in areas where internet infrastructure is traditionally limited. As a result, patients can now engage in high-quality, convenient care, regardless of location, making telehealth a vital resource for addressing gaps in healthcare access.
There remain barriers to telehealth access and use. Congress and state legislature have taken up the cause, but much more needs to be done to facilitate telehealth across the country. View the recording of our telehealth webinar or read the summary HERE.