Advancements in technology have completely revolutionized the healthcare industry and the way services are provided to patients, particularly in the context of remote medical care. Telehealth and virtual care clinics have quickly become popular platforms for people to seek non-life-threatening healthcare services from the comfort of their homes.
While these terms are sometimes used interchangeably, they are fairly different and cater to different medical needs. Understanding the difference between virtual care and telehealth is essential for establishing which option is best for the form of care delivery you need.
What is Telehealth?
Telehealth services use digital communication, including phone consultations, video calls, and secure messaging, to provide healthcare services remotely. Telehealth is considered a subset of virtual care, primarily focusing on clinical services such as diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing patient monitoring.
It involves real-time communication and interactions between patients and their healthcare providers and often involves using specialized medical devices that allow healthcare professionals to gather crucial patient data, like heart rate, glucose levels, and blood pressure, remotely.
People with disabilities often face many barriers when trying to access proper healthcare, such as transport issues, distance, low energy levels, or a lack of specialized care in their area. Telehealth does a fantastic job in removing these hurdles by bringing vital healthcare directly into their home.
Furthermore, telehealth services can be extremely beneficial for anyone living in rural or remote areas, individuals with limited mobility and energy levels, families or caregivers navigating busy schedules, and people who feel more comfortable receiving healthcare in familiar environments.
Accessing Telehealth
To access telehealth services, patients schedule their appointment online, either through a mobile app, via the internet, or by calling the clinic directly. When the time arrives, they will connect with their healthcare provider via a secure video call or over the phone. During this consultation, patients can discuss their symptoms with their provider, who will review their medical history and provide a diagnosis or treatment plan if possible.
Additionally, your provider may renew or write new prescriptions electronically, recommend you for further testing, and schedule any follow-up appointments, either in-person or virtually, if needed.
What are Virtual Care Clinics?
Virtual care clinics provide urgent medical care via online services or by phone for conditions deemed non-life-threatening. Based on your symptoms, you can receive medical advice at home or at your workplace as opposed to going to the emergency room.
Virtual care nurses also have the ability to direct you to the proper healthcare professional based on your medical needs, as well as organize tests and prescriptions close to your work or home. You do not need to make an appointment or receive a referral to use virtual care clinics.
These types of clinics can provide support and care for people with acute and chronic health conditions. They also provide resources and support for mental health concerns that are urgent but not life-threatening. However, if the medical professional you are speaking with determines that you need emergency transport, they will arrange for an ambulance to be dispatched to your location.
Accessing Virtual Care Clinics
The most effective way to find a virtual care clinic in your state or territory is by using the Healthdirect Service Finder. You will need to have a device with a working camera, like a phone, tablet, or computer, and a stable internet connection. You will also need to register online to join the network.
Once you have successfully registered, you will be placed in a virtual waiting room, and waiting times will depend on how busy the service is. Once it is your turn, a nurse will contact you, discuss your medical situation and symptoms, and recommend the best care option for you moving forward.
You will be able to register in other languages besides English, and should you need a language interpreter, you can request one during the registration process. It is crucial to have your Medicare or private health insurance card and number on hand when registering and during your consultation. Should you need an ambulance, there may be an additional charge. But this largely depends on the level of coverage your insurance provides.
Choosing the Best Option
Virtual care covers a much broader range of healthcare services, including clinical and non-clinical interactions. It typically involves various levels of patient care, from self-care resources and important informational material to video consultations and asynchronous messaging.
In comparison, telehealth specifically focuses on clinical care delivery and often includes real-time communication and interactions between patients and their chosen healthcare providers through secure messaging, phone calls, video consultations, and remote monitoring.
Both systems have quickly become vital components of elevated healthcare delivery, and as technology continues to evolve and advance, these solutions will grow alongside it. It is important to remember that telehealth and virtual care are not mutually exclusive; they complement each other in healthcare delivery. When deciding which is the best approach, you must consider your primary health needs and whether your treatment plan supports the use of these platforms. It is strongly recommended that you consult with your primary healthcare professional to discuss your options and choose the most effective plan moving forward.
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