Telehealth and Rehabilitation Management. Is It Time To Embrace New Technology?

One example of the benefits of doing things differently is how we deliver care and improve accessibility for patients. While initially brought about by a need to change due to the pandemic, telehealth has made a world of difference to many people.

Many people face barriers in accessing health care and rehabilitation services. This can lead to some people having worse health outcomes than others. Now, telehealth offers ways to break down those barriers.

The shift to online healthcare

Our reliance on technology has never been greater and telehealth makes it much easier for patients to access care when they need it most.

When we spoke with Rehab Management’s NSW State Manager, Renee Thornton, at the start of the pandemic, she explained that online consultations aren’t new. People in rural and remote communities have accessed online consultations for years:

“…teleconsults aren’t new at Rehab Management – we’ve been using the RMReach platform to consult with rural and remote clients for several years now…”

What has changed is that the service is now available to almost everyone.

Benefits of accessing rehabilitation services via telehealth

Telehealth offers a convenience for people who previously struggled to attend a face-to-face consultation with a healthcare practitioner.  This is especially true for rehabilitation clients.

Whether through the challenges of their disability or because it’s inconvenient to leave their workplace, telehealth enables clients to connect with their consultants without major inconvenience.

Video calls also increase client accountability. Seeing clients helps consultants keep them on track and focused on their rehabilitation goals.

Telehealth has also increased efficiencies for healthcare practitioners. It has helped them reach more people across greater distances. And can also help improve patient communication and their ability to work with other health professionals.

Is telehealth the future of healthcare and rehabilitation?

Some people may prefer the connection that comes from face-to-face consultations. Others prefer the convenience of speaking with their consultant from the comfort of their home or while they are traveling. Additionally, while technology can be challenging for some it can be freeing for others. The needs of all groups need to be considered, and telehealth is but one option that can improve the lives of people with disabilities or rehabilitation clients.

Telehealth won’t replace in-person consultations, yet we can’t overlook its positive impact on healthcare both for patients and providers. As treatments advance, it’s important to embrace technologies that improve healthcare. Provided that a range of access is made available, that privacy concerns are addressed, and patient preference is the driver, telehealth is a valuable addition to the healthcare sector.

Telehealth brings rehabilitation services into the digital age, and can allow for improved patient access and outcomes, regardless of location or circumstance.

Embracing change and finding ways to make healthcare accessible for everyone is worth the effort.

For more details on RMHealth, click here – or if you’d like to speak with a consultant, call us on 1300 762 989.