The introduction of telemedicine
Besides the development of platforms such as practice management and EHR software, the introduction of telemedicine has reflected positive impacts on the healthcare industry both for patients and providers (Win, 2015). Telemedicine refers to forms of medical care delivery that are delivered remotely through technologies, including telephones, internet, and video conferencing, among others. It is the most modern form of medical services provision, which combines patient needs and technological progress beyond the conventional frontiers of traditional health care systems (Bujnowska-Fedak & Grata-Borkowska, 2015). Telemedicine strategies have continued to grow in usage by healthcare providers, mainly due to their benefits. These benefits are spread out for patients from all backgrounds and ages. In this section, I will discuss and explore the benefits of telemedicine for elderly patients.
According to new research by Eudes et al. (2016), telemedicine is a viable way to improve the health outcomes in older adults. This study pointed out the finding through a review of current articles as well as data on telemedicine and focused on the population of older adults, particularly those above 65 years (Eudes et al., 2016). One of the demographics that notably stands to gain the most benefit from telemedicine solutions is elderly adults, especially those of retirement age. In another research, Win (2015) found significant disparities, especially in health care access and its delivery. Some of these include those caused by health workforce challenges and transportation issues, often affecting individuals residing in rural regions (Win, 2015). The number of health care challenges discussed seemed to be more profound, especially for vulnerable populations such as older adults.
Telemedicine and related communication and information technologies avail opportunities which can be applied in improving the rural health care delivery among older adults. Further, this population records the fastest-growing group of users, especially in regions with cellular connectivity, and enhances broadband connections (Bujnowska-Fedak & Grata-Borkowska, 2015). Statistically, older adults are more likely to have chronic conditions, including diabetes and heart diseases, which are examples of illnesses that require routine monitoring from providers of health. Thus, particular healthcare technologies can serve in helping the healthcare providers to monitor various factors, including blood pressure and sugar levels among this vulnerable population (Xie et al., 2016). Since the monitoring can be carried out remotely, routine, and in-person visits, which could be difficult and costly for older adults, are not necessary.
Also, the use of telemedicine leads to improved communication between patients and their healthcare providers, allowing physicians to keep a closer eye on older patients’ health (Win, 2015). Such monitoring availed through enhanced communication is essential in determining when the patients may be at risk for medical emergencies. Research on telemedicine’s efficacy, especially on reducing emergencies, revealed that telemedicine technologies enable cost savings in nursing homes by reducing the need for emergency room visits (Bujnowska-Fedak & Grata-Borkowska, 2015). Further, telemedicine avails increased access to specialists, especially by seniors who are at risk of developing chronic conditions.
In the case that healthcare specialists are not located in closeness to the community, the need for travel is necessary (Hassibian & Hassibian, 2016). This leads to challenges, especially for the senior population, since they may have mobility complications or movement impediments (Hassibian & Hassibian, 2016). Telemedicine eliminates these barriers and facilitates the connection of seniors to necessary care from specialists. Another benefit of telemedicine for elderly patients is that it is safe and secure. Telemedicine services are legally required to adhere to the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act mandates. For example, the HIPAA is concerned with the protection of patient medical records, which enhances privacy as well as inhibits acts of fraud (Bujnowska-Fedak & Grata-Borkowska, 2015). Thus, telemedicine provides a secure and safe approach to medicine, which reduces stress on the elderly as well as their caregivers.
However, the research also pointed out some challenges and barriers encountered, especially among older adults, in their efforts to implement telemedicine. For example, some older adults have less experience with emerging technologies and other issues such as sensory, memory, or age-related barriers which hamper their ability to engage in telemedicine (Xie et al., 2016). Still, more research and study is needed on telehealth and its applications in the healthcare field. However, recent data from surveys has revealed that telemedicine is a viable and feasible way to provide health care to older adults (Xie et al., 2016). Furthermore, health practitioners should consider using telemedicine in their routine practice to ensure that they overcome barriers of distance and accessibility of care to people.
In conclusion, Telemedicine holds vast potential in enabling elderly patients to maintain their independence as well as enjoy longer lives. The range of options that it offers makes healthcare more accessible and easier. These provisions include tracking vital signs through remote monitoring tools, facilitating communication with physicians through web portals, and receiving health care from a doctor in an on-spot manner through video chats (Win, 2015). Telemedicine alongside telehealth has proven to be viable ways that apply best practices to make life easier for all patients and especially the elderly.