Telemedicine in a Post Pandemic World

The onset of the ongoing coronavirus pandemic brought with it changes in nearly every industry. Be it increased delivery services, virtual meetings via Zoom, and even telemedicine, the pandemic has changed the name of the game. 

As we begin to see the light at the end of the tunnel, the question has become what will happen to this new normal that we’ve grown accustomed to. 

Looking back at this period most people will likely remember the negative effects that the pandemic had on society. But that’s not necessarily the only way to view it. While many will be eager to return to their usual social routines and ditch the required masks, some changes put in place have been for the better. 

One of the positive changes that has largely resulted from the pandemic has been the wider usage of telemedicine services. While telehealth services existed prior to the pandemic, their use has been significantly more popular throughout this time. 

What started out as not wanting to visit a doctor’s office or hospital for fear of contracting the coronavirus has now become an easy and convenient way for people to receive health care. 

While not all conditions can be diagnosed or treated via telehealth services, many can. You’ll still have to visit the doctor in person for labs, tests, and annual physical exams, but many other services may be treatable via remote meetings. 

Consider this scenario

You wake up for work one morning with a terrible headache and sore throat. You want to get better as soon as possible and figure asking your doctor for the best treatment plan is the most efficient way to do so. When you call your doctor’s office, the receptionist lets you know that there are no open appointments for the next 3 days.

What to do now? Luckily your doctor’s office offers a telemedicine option. While you may not see your usual primary care provider, you can often schedule a visit within a shorter time period than it would’ve been to see your doctor in person.