Telemedicine–Getting Care to Patients Closer to Home

Abstract

Telemedicine allows healthcare providers to assist their patients without being physically present. It allows for assessment, diagnosis and treatment of conditions remotely. Virtual care includes telemedicine and encompasses other ways of communication with the patient to allow check-ins and monitoring. Telemedicine does not replace the need for all medical visits. If you are injured or have a serious medical problem, you should call the doctor's office or the hospital to determine if you need to be seen right away. Virtual visits may be used for non-urgent healthcare needs. They are becoming more commonly available and their cost is being covered more often by insurance companies.