Pros and Cons to telehealth

Pre-Visit Setup:

Verify Identity and Location: Confirm the patient's identity and their exact address in case an emergency intervention is needed.

Technical Check: Ensure strong audio/video connection and that the patient is in a private, well-lit space.

Subjective Assessment (Interview): This is the core element.

Use standard history-taking techniques, focusing on detailed descriptions of symptoms, pain quality, and timing, since observation is the primary tool.

Objective Assessment (Virtual Exam): This relies on observation and instruction.

Directed Observation: Inspect appearance, breathing effort, skin color, and mental status.

Patient-Assisted Exam: Instruct the patient on how to demonstrate function (e.g., "Show me the range of motion in your shoulder," or "Hold your phone up close to show me that rash").

Sample Answer

Pros and ❌ Cons of Telehealth

Pros (Benefits)

Increased Access: Provides healthcare to patients in rural or underserved areas and those with mobility issues, overcoming geographic barriers.

Convenience and Efficiency: Reduces patient costs and time lost from work (no travel/parking). It can also reduce clinic "no-show" rates.

Reduced Infection Risk: Minimizes exposure to contagious illnesses for both patients and staff.

Improved Chronic Care Management: Enables remote monitoring and real-time data collection (e.g., blood pressure, blood glucose) for timely intervention.

Cons (Drawbacks)

Technology Barriers (Digital Divide): Requires reliable internet and digital literacy, potentially excluding older or low-income populations.

Physical Exam Limitations: Prevents hands-on assessment (palpation, auscultation, deep reflexes).