Telehealth in 2023 - Predicting the Unpredictable

Making predictions in unpredictable times can be dangerous. It can be risky to make predictions during uncertain times. Perhaps we can only genuinely trust the trends that give us the flexibility to deal with the unexpected, as long-held certainties, even ones as fundamental as person-to-person communication, have shown to be unreliable. The perfect indicator is found in healthcare. The majority of this volatility has been and is still being experienced by the sector. Emergency situations like the pandemic have severely restricted it while also driving up demand for its services. In actuality, telehealth supported the sector through the epidemic and stepped up in 2022, turning to take on new challenges. Consequently, telehealth is the common thread across the trends that accelerated this year.

Telehealth has experienced significant growth in recent years, driven in part by the COVID-19 pandemic. Here are some of the top trends in telehealth:

• Increased use of virtual visits: The ability to see a healthcare provider remotely has become more popular, as it allows patients to receive care from the comfort of their own homes.
• Integration with electronic health records (EHRs): Many healthcare providers are now using telehealth platforms that are integrated with their EHR systems, which allows for a seamless exchange of patient information and makes it easier for providers to track patient progress over time.
• Expansion of services: Telehealth is being used to provide a wider range of healthcare services, including mental health care, physical therapy, and specialist consultations.
• Use of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning: Some telehealth platforms are using AI and machine learning to improve the accuracy and efficiency of diagnosis and treatment.
• Greater accessibility: Telehealth has made it easier for people in rural or underserved areas to access healthcare, as they no longer have to travel long distances to see a provider.
• Insurance coverage: Many insurance plans now cover telehealth services, making it more accessible for patients.