As technology redefines the way people access goods and services, healthcare is the latest industry to join the wave of convenience-driven innovation. Just as DoorDash delivers meals and Amazon Prime brings products to your doorstep, telehealth is transforming the doctor’s visit by offering virtual appointments. This trend, which saw a surge during the COVID-19 pandemic, continues to grow as patients recognize the benefits of remote healthcare.
Virtual Care in a Post-Pandemic World
Telehealth has become a valuable tool in expanding healthcare accessibility, particularly in areas where medical resources are limited. Cindi Hedrick, owner and practitioner at Coastal Health Solutions, highlighted the value of virtual doctor visits, noting that they allow practitioners to connect with patients without requiring a physical examination. She emphasized that effective telehealth consultations involve more than just listening to a patient’s words; they need an in-depth understanding of verbal cues, tone, and symptom descriptions.
“You have to learn how to listen,” Hedrick explained. “Listening to people’s cues, their words, their inflection of tones, their symptoms—everything.” Even without the physical exam, the skillful interpretation of a patient’s account of their health can lead to accurate diagnoses. “I might not be able to hear your heartbeat that day, but I can actually diagnose and treat based on your words,” she added.
Addressing Gaps in Primary Care
Telehealth is proving especially useful as communities face shortages of primary care physicians. In some regions, patients endure months-long waits to secure appointments, and limited healthcare resources are prompting individuals to turn to virtual care as a timely alternative. Hedrick pointed out that telehealth fills a critical need for those who might otherwise face prolonged delays, particularly for routine concerns like medication refills or minor ailments.
“There is no need to wait six months to see a primary care provider,” Hedrick remarked. “For some, it’s as simple as a quick consultation to get medication refills.” This immediate access to care is transforming patient expectations and reducing reliance on in-person visits for non-urgent health issues.
A Boon for the Insurance Industry
The growing demand for telehealth is also reshaping insurance coverage. In the Coastal Bend area, Charles McCrann, owner of McCrann Insurance, has observed an increase in interest among his clients regarding virtual healthcare options. “In this area, it’s often six out of ten who say, ‘No, we don’t see a doctor,'” McCrann shared. He noted that during open enrollment, customers frequently inquire about telehealth benefits, looking for convenient options that fit their needs.
“Telehealth allows people to connect with a doctor within minutes, any time they need,” McCrann said. However, he advised patients to consult their insurance agents to ensure they are fully aware of their benefits and potential cost savings. “There are individual plans through ACA or Obamacare that might cover these services; they just need to ask their agent if it’s available,” he advised.