What does a telehealth service typically enable for patients?

Telehealth services primarily enable access to remote consultations with healthcare providers. This is significant because it allows patients to receive medical advice, diagnoses, and treatment options without the need to physically visit a healthcare facility. Patients can connect with their providers through video calls, phone calls, or messaging platforms, thereby increasing convenience, especially for those who may have mobility issues, live in rural areas, or have difficulty accessing in-person healthcare.

The focus of telehealth is on enhancing accessibility and improving patient engagement with their healthcare providers. It does not guarantee complete privacy during visits, as confidentiality can still depend on the technology used and adherence to regulations. While telehealth can facilitate discussions that may lead to prescriptions, these typically involve some form of consultation first, so immediate prescriptions without prior communication would not accurately represent the standard practice. Lastly, telehealth is designed to complement a broader range of healthcare services and does not restrict diagnostics to in-person encounters.