Video visits are used by primary care practices as a way to enhance the service they offer to patients. Here are a few of the common uses of telemedicine in primary care:
Specialty care providers have found that telemedicine is an effective way to ensure that patients get the expert care they need. The approach allows people to see the best provider for their particular condition, even if they aren’t located nearby. Specialties that commonly leverage telemedicine include:
The use of telemedicine by mental health providers is sometimes called Telemental Health, Telepsychiatry, or Telebehavioral Health. One of the reasons that telemedicine for mental health services is so popular in the United States is a shortage of qualified providers. Telemedicine makes it possible for fewer providers to serve more patients efficiently. It is ideal for medication management, or for checking-in between visits.
Both stand alone urgent care clinics and primary care providers are using telemedicine to meet the demands of patients for immediate access to care. Clinics devoted solely to the practice of urgent care medicine incorporate telemedicine as a way to reduce costs, increase market share, and ensure patient loyalty. Primary care offices use video visits to extend office hours, making it possible for patients to fill all of their needs within the practice, rather than turning to retail or online only providers.
There are now a number of services that offer on-demand, online access to health professionals for video visits, often 24×7. Patients simply log into a web-based or mobile application and request a visit. A licensed healthcare professional provides care for everything from cold and flu symptoms to allergies and depression. These services often offer affordable rates for people who pay out of pocket, and some visits are covered by insurance. Doctor on Demand, and Amwell are examples of this type of service.
