Telemedicine, a growing trend

Technology has burst into medicine: artificial intelligence and other digital tools have already proven their usefulness in this field. But, without a doubt, we cannot talk about medical technology without specifically talking about telemedicine.

The trend towards digitalization could already be seen coming. However, the situation we have encountered this year has made its progress take a considerable leap forward.

The fact that it has become necessary to reduce crowding has made it necessary to carry out many consultations by telephone or video call. The previous lack of knowledge about telemedicine has given way to an understanding of its potential. Even so, there are still many challenges to be addressed gradually. Digitalization has been, in many cases, hasty, so it will have to be improved in the future.

A tool for decongesting health centers

Without a doubt, telemedicine has been a necessity rather than an option. It has played a key role in decongesting hospitals and primary care centers.

The fear experienced by many people in the face of the pandemic has also increased their doubts and questions, consultations that in many cases have been made telematically. Only the necessary cases have been referred to face to face care, which has solved a situation that health professionals could hardly have faced if they did not have the appropriate tools.

Of course, we can also talk about issues related to other disciplines that have been relegated to the coronavirus. Thanks to telematic consultations, it has been possible to continue treating patients without exposing them to the virus.

Telemedicine also represents advantages for patients

And one of them is the possibility to ask for the opinion of several professionals. The ease with which these consultations can be made – without having to miss work and without disrupting the day-to-day routine – also benefits the patient. Not all pathologies can be treated telematically; however, there are many consultations and follow-up appointments that are easily resolved by these means.

Likewise, telemedicine is a true revelation for chronic patients, who will be able to reduce their visits to the doctor. Revisions of medication, doubts, periodic follow-up by the doctor… All can be done telematically. It will also be much easier to detect harmful habits as it will be easier to follow your day-to-day life. For example? Perhaps a person with a digestive disease can share with his doctor the menus. In this way, the health professional will be able to warn the patient if he detects that something could be harmful to him. Telemedicine goes beyond medical care: it provides us with tools for prevention as well.

Multiple challenges on the horizon

But how can all this potential be harnessed? Although digitalization has already been implemented in medical centers, we cannot forget that the situation has been sudden. For this reason, now it is time to polish up details and select the most suitable technologies.

At Alma Medical Imaging we have several technological solutions that can help you, among other things, to correctly apply telemedicine.Contact us.