This is the start to a mini-series about telehealth and telemedicine options. Starting out with a definition of what telehealth is, types of provider services including a taste of virtual mental health care and recourses.
The short version is, per the U.S. Department of Heath and Human Services,
“Telehealth — sometimes called telemedicine — lets your health care provider care for you without an in-person office visit. Telehealth is done primarily online with internet access on your computer, tablet, or smartphone.”
I think I have that song by David Bowie on repeat in my head. So many changes are occurring and I don't know if it is good sense to try to keep up with all of them.
Some changes there isn't a choice about. We have to be aware that entrepreneurs are providing medical and mental health services via software, apps and treatment options.
Not all of the entrepreneurs are coming from a traditional medical orientation. There is a for profit slicing and dicing about providing access to care is taking place.
This is nothing new. There has always been stratified healthcare in the United States.
- You have concierge medicine for the very rich and wealthy.
- Metered insurance access for those people that are in a rapidly compressed middle income space.
- And governmental and charity access if you are broke and your dollar has to stretch around the block.
The growth of telehealth/telemedicine providers is something we have to pay attention and understand what the impact will be on our physical and mental health treatment options.
If you need support contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988 or 1-800-273-8255, the Trevor Project at 1-866-488-7386 or text “START” to 741-741.
Resources Mentioned:
From the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, What Is Telehealth? There is also a downloadable PDF on The Basics of Telehealth Care.
Medline Plus page on Telehealth also provides a bounty of information about what telehealth is and some of the pros and cons of it.
The National Institute of Mental Health has a two page brochure with basic description of what is tele-mental care and some of the pros and cons.
Disclaimer:
Links to other sites are provided for information purposes only and do not constitute endorsements.
Always seek the advice of a qualified health provider with questions you may have regarding a medical or mental health disorder.
This blog and podcast is intended for informational and educational purposes only. Nothing in this program is intended to be a substitute for professional psychological, psychiatric or medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
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