Healthcare IT solutions and technology advancements are reshaping the way how patients receive care. The hybrid telemedicine approach uses technology to improve healthcare delivery, making it more convenient and accessible for patients while still providing appropriate in-person care when necessary.
What is a hybrid telemedicine program?
A hybrid telemedicine program is a type of healthcare delivery system that blends traditional in-person medical services with remote telemedicine consultations.
Depending on different needs and the nature of medical conditions, patients in a hybrid telemedicine program can select between virtual appointments and actual visits to hospitals. Hence the program gives more flexibility, allowing minor medical conditions to be checked remotely.
How does a hybrid telemedicine program operate?
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Telemedicine EMR Software adaptation rates accelerated all across the United States. Both health systems and patients recognized its benefits and continue utilizing the robust platform to provide care to patients from the comfort of their homes.
Let’s see how a hybrid telemedicine program operates:
Telehealth sessions or virtual consultations can be fruitful for patients to discuss any symptoms and receive non-urgent medical care. Telemedicine is especially useful for patients living on the outskirts as it increases access to care and provides an opportunity to receive high-quality diagnosis and treatment.
In-person visits are encouraged for complex cases, where physical examination is necessary. Through one-on-one interaction with the healthcare provider direct medical care can be provided easily.
To maintain continuity of care, healthcare providers in a hybrid telemedicine program collaborate between virtual and in-person appointments. For example, if a patient has a virtual consultation and needs to be evaluated further, the medical provider may plan an in-person session for a thorough examination or testing.
Furthermore, Electronic Medical Records (EMR) Software is utilized to maintain comprehensive patient records. Through electronic records, clinicians can conveniently access patient information to support the decision-making process.
FirstHealth Rolls out a Hybrid Telemedicine Program
FirstHealth of the Carolinas offers a powerful hybrid telemedicine program to its patients. Bed capacity was one of the major challenges for the health system. The program coordinated different telemedicine programs in conjunction with physical visits, to offer safe care to patients at home who would be typically admitted to hospital straining capacity.
The Future of Hybrid Healthcare
The hybrid telemedicine approach uses technology to improve healthcare delivery, making it more convenient and accessible for patients while still providing appropriate in-person care when necessary. This strategy strives to maximize patient outcomes and increase overall healthcare efficiency by combining the benefits of telemedicine with traditional medical services. KPMG states, that digital front doors are here to stay offering effective healthcare delivery at reduced costs.
