Telehealth is increasingly recognized as a viable approach to delivering healthcare services in a more cost-effective manner than traditional face-to-face consultations. The financial implications of telehealth can be significantly reduced without compromising the quality of care provided to patients.
Recent innovations in telehealth encompass virtual appointments, the automation of administrative processes, and the capability for patients to submit their diagnostic results for physician review. These advancements present a range of economic benefits; however, it is essential to explore the mechanisms through which these costs are diminished and to identify the stakeholders who stand to gain from these technological enhancements.
Reduce the number of A&E visits
While it may appear paradoxical, virtual consultations can significantly reduce the frequency of visits to emergency departments. The financial implications of an emergency room visit far exceed those of a consultation at a primary care facility. By utilizing a home triage service that offers phone or video consultations, patients are less inclined to seek immediate care at A&E for non-critical issues. With the ability to access patients' medical histories online, healthcare professionals can often diagnose various health concerns remotely and issue prescriptions without requiring the patient to leave their home. This triage approach not only decreases the number of non-urgent admissions to A&E but also optimizes emergency resources for individuals who genuinely require immediate medical attention.
Reduce travel costs for doctors and patients
One of the most significant advantages of remote patient monitoring via online consultations is the substantial reduction in travel expenses. This innovation minimizes the necessity for patients to commute to general practices and medical facilities.
The costs associated with traveling to appointments and parking at hospitals can be considerable, particularly for individuals requiring frequent medical attention or those residing in rural regions.
While the availability of home visits by GPs has diminished in recent years, there remain numerous instances where patients are unable to attend the surgery and benefit from consultations conducted in the safety and comfort of their homes. This is particularly pertinent in the current climate, post COVID-19 many patients still feel apprehensive about visiting healthcare facilities. In this context, online consultations not only eliminate the need for travel but also conserve valuable resources for the healthcare provider while offering peace of mind to vulnerable patients.
Hospitals and clinics gain productivity
Telehealth represents a significant advancement in the healthcare sector, facilitating the automation of administrative and manual processes within hospitals and clinics. The objective is not to displace personnel but to optimize routine tasks, thereby allowing non-clinical staff to dedicate more time to patient-centered activities. By improving resource management, telehealth contributes to a more balanced workload for employees, empowering them to excel in various facets of their responsibilities. A 2019 study indicates that the NHS could realize annual savings of £12.5 billion in staffing costs through automation, while the social care sector could benefit from a £5.9 billion reduction in expenses.
Allows greater access to specialist care
For smaller healthcare facilities, the financial burden of hiring specialist physicians on a full-time basis can be significant, particularly when the demand for their expertise does not align with the hours stipulated in their contracts. Telehealth presents a viable solution to this challenge.
In the field of radiology, for instance, medical imaging such as MRIs and CT scans can be securely transmitted between institutions, enabling radiologists to provide their services without being constrained by geographical limitations. In the UK, where there is a notable shortage of radiologists, this approach allows rural hospitals to engage these specialists for limited days each week, thereby alleviating the need to offer a full-time salary. Consequently, specialists can maintain full-time employment across multiple hospitals, optimizing resource allocation and enhancing patient care.
Reduce hospital readmissions
Telehealth has emerged as a pivotal solution in mitigating the frequency of hospital readmissions each year. Patients with chronic conditions often experience recurrent admissions within short intervals; however, advancements in telemedicine offer a viable alternative.
Upon discharge, patients can be equipped with devices to continuously monitor critical health metrics, including blood pressure, oxygen levels, and heart rate. Through automated reminders, patients can seamlessly upload their health data to a centralized system, allowing healthcare professionals to monitor for any significant fluctuations. This proactive monitoring enables timely interventions, ensuring that patients receive necessary support before their health declines to a level that necessitates readmission to the hospital.
Reduce Carbon Emissions
Reducing travel and utilizing resources more efficiently can lead to major reductions in carbon emissions, supporting government initiatives aimed at achieving Net Zero.
How Can OX.DH Assist?
Cost-effectiveness is just one aspect of healthcare that can be improved with advancements in technology. Platforms, like OX General Practice and OX Waiting Room aim to improve the patient experience and provide both healthcare professionals and patients with greater continuity of care. Get in touch today to find out more on how OX can help transform your clinic or practice.