Telehealth

Telehealth is a way of receiving healthcare services remotely through technology, such as video calls, phone calls, or secure messaging, without the need for an in-person visit to a healthcare provider.

Example #1

An elderly person consulting with their doctor over a video call about their medication management instead of physically going to the clinic.

Example #2

A patient receiving post-operative care instructions over the phone after being discharged from the hospital.

Misuse

One misuse of telehealth could be fraudulent practices where unscrupulous individuals or companies offer fake telehealth services to scam consumers. It's important to verify the legitimacy of telehealth providers to protect consumers from financial and health risks.

Benefits

One significant benefit of telehealth is improving access to healthcare for individuals in remote areas or those with mobility issues. For example, a person living in a rural area can consult with a specialist located in a different city without the need for travel.

Conclusion

Telehealth offers convenience and accessibility to healthcare services, especially for those who face barriers to in-person visits. Consumers should be cautious of fraudulent telehealth services and always verify the legitimacy of providers before engaging in remote healthcare consultations.

Related Terms

DoctorNurseClinicHospitalPatientPrimary CareSpecialistHome Health CareLong-term Care FacilityAssisted Living