COVID-19 has amplified the need for disruption in the healthcare system. The pandemic has changed the way doctors operate. Why? Due to the emphasis of social distancing to tame the escalating virus, there is limited physical contact between doctors and patients, as is the norm with traditional healthcare delivery.
This new reality has ushered in a new era of telemedicine. But what is telemedicine? Telemedicine or telehealth is the provision of healthcare through digital communication technologies. It’s the delivery of health services through platforms, such as emails, phone calls, and video conferencing platforms.
How is the state of telemedicine in Canada?
Over the years, medical providers have been criticized for reluctance to adopt technology in healthcare provision. Again, the state has not done much to promote the provision of virtual health services. This, combined with other factors, has led to a diminished adoption of telemedicine in Canada.
Why telemedicine should be nurtured
However, with COVID-19 around, traditional healthcare cannot be the only option of providing healthcare services. Even laggards do not have the luxury of waiting it out. Having said that, let’s see why telemedicine should be the future of healthcare in Canada.
Let’s begin.
• Breaks physical barriers
With telemedicine, access to healthcare is made a reality despite the geographical location of the patient. It’s accessible even in Canada’s remote areas as long as the patient has a device to receive communication.
Telemedicine makes patients in rural settings access timely and quality healthcare just like their counterparts in the urban areas. With the ability to provide healthcare services beyond the hospital walls, Canada’s dream of providing community-based care is brought close to reality.
• Physical distancing
You cannot mention telemedicine without emphasizing physical distancing, especially with COVID-19. Telemedicine has made it possible to continue providing healthcare even during times when physical contact is discouraged.
Canada should adopt telemedicine now and beyond the pandemic. It not only curbs the virus but also goes a long way in decongesting healthcare facilities.
• It’s cheaper and convenient
Think of it this way. You want to access a health facility; it costs you time and travel cost. To this, also add the amount of time consumed in the hospital waiting bay. Fortunately, with telemedicine, you can save time and money. All you need is connectivity.
You also do not need to take time off from your duty. Telemedicine provides healthcare remotely without disrupting your day to day activities. What you have to do is to spare some minutes to talk to your doctor.
Parting shot
Telemedicine will not entirely replace traditional healthcare delivery. Why? Some health issues require physical examination and treatment. However, telemedicine will go a long way in complementing the existing platform by enabling clinicians to provide services beyond their physical location.
In Canada, the provision of virtual healthcare services has been on discussion for eons. However, limited financing and lack of political goodwill have restricted progress. Our healthcare system should use this opportune time to invest in the telemedicine infrastructure for better healthcare delivery.
