Which Telehealth Services Are Best For Seniors?
Telehealth services, especially for seniors, became an effective way to deliver healthcare during the pandemic. Although the reimbursement policy continues to evolve, Medicare does cover most telehealth services. Telehealth encompasses all health-related services provided remotely through telecommunications.
According to the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), remote healthcare services provide the following benefits:
- Increases the chance of being seen
- Reduces exposure to other illnesses
- Limits the number of health-related trips
The services are at no added cost for seniors covered by Medicare. Seniors and their families should consider which telehealth services are best for them.
Monitoring
High-risk seniors can benefit from in-home monitoring devices. These monitors operate as any smart device, such as security cameras or TVs. They collect data and send it to a clinician for review. The analysis can be done before a virtual visit or as part of routine care.
Monitoring can alert physicians to changes in reported data so adjustments can be made quickly. Remote monitoring is available for conditions such as:
- High blood pressure
- Diabetes
- Weight loss or gain
- Heart conditions
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
- Sleep apnea
- Asthma
The in-home monitoring is also referred to as Mobile Health or mHealth. Remote monitoring can improve the quality of care for seniors with chronic health conditions because they do not have to wait until the next visit to report a concern.
Follow-up Visits
According to an AMA study, seniors prefer virtual visits that include video; however, 47% of seniors lack the technology and must rely on audio-only appointments. Many felt that a video telehealth visit was equal to an in-person appointment. This feeling was especially true for follow-up visits.
Being able to have follow-up visits using telehealth technology reduces the number of trips seniors have to make. During the winter in Philadelphia and Montgomery County, travel can be hazardous, resulting in missed appointments. When seniors are unable to receive follow-up care, it can result in complications or emergency room trips.
Telemedicine
Telemedicine refers to the diagnosis and treatment of patients using telecommunication technology. It can provide security to seniors living alone. If they have questions or concerns, they can contact a healthcare professional to help ease their anxiety using a patient portal. Technology also provides a way for caregivers to contact a doctor for clarification on medications or care instructions.
Virtual visits can deliver medical care to seniors who travel long distances to receive healthcare. Seniors in rural areas may have to travel for hours to an appointment. With telemedicine, seniors can contact their healthcare professionals from any internet-connected device.
The freedom and flexibility that telemedicine provides can improve the quality of life for seniors living alone or with chronic health conditions. It delivers peace of mind for families, knowing their senior loved ones have access to healthcare professionals. It's especially helpful for seniors in Bala Cynwyd, Narberth, and Chestnut Hill who cannot use public transit.
Senior Helpers in Philadelphia and Chestnut Hills provides in-home services for seniors needing companionship or assistance with routine activities such as cooking. They can help seniors perform self-care tasks that allow them to remain in their homes. To learn more about our services, contact us today.