The Magic of Telemedicine – Heath Care Is Just A Call Away

We live in a world where we want everything done yesterday. Deadlines, prompt responses, imminently, – these are terms we use every day. And when we can log in on apps and order everything in moments, why should our health care needs be far behind? Yes, telemedicine has enormously changed the way we approach health care. Today, it is possible to consult doctors over a small phone screen. So, what is telemedicine exactly and what role does it play in making healthcare more accessible? Lets’ decode it together, shall we?  

What is Telemedicine? 

The perfect fusion of technology and healthcare, Telemedicine is a revolutionary approach that allows you to access medical services remotely, from any corner. It involves the use of telecommunications technology to avail yourself of clinical healthcare services, bringing you and healthcare professionals closer, making the distance between service users and providers obsolete.  

Today, you can use mobile apps and websites to consult healthcare providers, receive diagnoses, and undergo treatment without being physically present at healthcare centers. 

Role of Telemedicine in Healthcare India 

In recent years, India has witnessed tremendous growth in the use of telemedicine. This growth can be attributed to various factors, including the vast geographical diversity of the country and the limited access of healthcare services in rural areas. Telehealthcare has bridged this gap between patients who need medical services but can’t access them due to the distance, and doctors who can offer the services but are unable to be present everywhere. It has emerged as a vital tool in connecting patients with healthcare professionals regardless of their location. This development is important for a country like India where healthcare infrastructure is often strained. 

Convenience of Telemedicine 

A key advantage of telemedicine is the unparalleled convenience it offers to both healthcare providers and individuals who need medical services. You no longer need to endure long journeys to visit a healthcare facility, especially if you live in a remote area or simply do not have the time to wait in queues for long hours. Telehealthcare provides virtual consultations, allowing you to connect with doctors from the comfort of your home. This convenience not only saves time and effort but also ensures that individuals in distant, underserved regions can access medical care without hurdles. 

Types of Telemedicine 

As someone in need of it, you can access the following types of Telehealthcare options: 

• Real-time Telemedicine 

This facility involves live, interactive communication between patients and healthcare providers through video conferencing or phone calls.  

• Store-and-forward Telemedicine 

In this model, online aggregators collect patient information, including their medical records and images and transmit them to a healthcare professional for assessment at a later time. 

• Remote Patient Monitoring 

This method utilizes technology to collect patient data, such as their vital signs, heart rate, etc., which is then transmitted to healthcare providers for analysis and intervention. 

Important Terms in Telemedicine 

Following are a few important terms in telemedicine: 

• Telehealth 

An umbrella term that encompasses a broader range of healthcare services beyond clinical care, including education, administrative meetings, and public health services. 

• E-Consultation 

A remote consultation between a patient and a healthcare professional facilitated through an electronic medium like a smartphone. 

• Tele pharmacy 

Involves the remote provision of pharmacy services, including medication consultations and prescription fulfillment. 

Benefits of Telemedicine 

The top benefits of telemedicine in healthcare can be summarized as follows.  

• Telemedicine improves accessibility, allowing individuals in remote areas to receive timely medical consultations.  

• It facilitates early discovery of ailments and timely medical intervention by allowing regular monitoring of chronic conditions.  

• Telehealthcare reduces the burden on physical healthcare facilities, making healthcare more reachable and efficient.  

• The ease of virtual consultations encourages patients to address their health concerns imminently. 

• Since telemedicine involves remote consultations, it reduces administrative costs and travel expenses, making healthcare more affordable. 

Uses of Telemedicine in Healthcare During and After the Pandemic 

Although Telemedicine as a concept has existed for a while now, its impact became more apparent in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic. At a time when hospitals were filled with patients, the medical industry realized the need to pivot, so everyone could access quality healthcare. This led to the launch of several online medical aggregators and mobile applications. Doctors registered themselves on these apps  and pharmacies started providing home delivery of medications as fast as patients downloaded these apps to access healthcare facilities and speak to professionals about their symptoms. Indeed, telehealthcare became the main tool for screening, monitoring, and managing COVID-19 cases. 

What Problems Does Telemedicine Solve in Healthcare? 

Telemedicine addresses several issues in the healthcare landscape. One of the main issues is the geographical barrier, especially in a country as vast as India. It further ensures that individuals in remote areas have access to medical expertise without the need for a lot of travelling. Additionally, it helps in the early discovery and management of health issues, reducing the strain on already burdened healthcare facilities. Moreover, telemedicine makes healthcare efficient by streamlining processes and reducing unnecessary in-person visits. 

Get Easy Access To Telemedicine Services With Manipal Cigna Health Insurance 

Telemedicine is playing a crucial role in reshaping India’s health insurance landscape, making healthcare more accessible and user-friendly. As a Manipal Cigna Health Insurance policyholder, you can enjoy telemedicine services online and get access to virtual consultations, health check-ups, and mental health support from the comfort of your home. What’s more, our health insurance products are designed, keeping your various medical expenses and coverage needs in mind, to reduce your out-of-pocket expenses significantly. 

Invest in Manipal Cigna Health Insurance plans to unlock unparalleled coverage benefits 

FAQs 

What is telemedicine in the field of health insurance? 

Telemedicine refers to the use of technology to access virtual medical consultations, diagnosis, and treatment. It facilitates easy access to healthcare remotely, usually via video calls and online platforms. This innovative approach enhances convenience, reduces costs, and expands healthcare access, contributing to a more inclusive and efficient health insurance model. 

Where does telehealthcare fit in with health insurance plans? 

Your healthcare plans offer a range of coverage benefits, including telehealthcare services through which you can remotely consult medical professionals. Insurers typically provide this facility as a complimentary feature. However, the frequency or number of times you can access this facility in a policy year may depend on your chosen insurance plan.  

Telehealthcare services covered under health insurance include virtual consultations, remote diagnosis, and treatment through online platforms. The coverage may also extend to mental health consultations, follow-ups, and chronic diseases management. 

Do all health insurance policies cover telemedicine consultations? 

Yes, in 2020, the IRDAI issued a mandate asking all health insurance providers to offer telehealthcare consultations. However, the coverage terms and the frequency or number of times you can seek telemedicine consultations may vary from one insurer to another. 

What is the process to access telemedicine services through my health insurance plan? 

To access telemedicine services through your health insurance plan, you must first ensure your policy offers this coverage. You must then inform your insurer about your intention to use the facility and file a claim. You can raise the claim by providing proof of having used the telemedicine services.  

Is telemedicine cost-effective for health insurance policyholders? 

Yes, telemedicine is cost-effective for health insurance policyholders. It reduces travel expenses and waiting times at health care facilities. Moreover, online consultations translate to lower costs, safeguarding your policy’s sum insured amount.  

Under what medical conditions should I consider telemedicine consultations? 

You may consider utilizing telemedicine consultations for healthcare concerns that can be addressed virtually like treatment for common illnesses, minor injuries, chronic disease management, mental health issues, and follow-up appointments.  

Does health insurance cover virtual prescriptions and medications? 

Coverage for virtual prescriptions and medications varies among most health cover plans under IRDAI regulations. However, you must review your insurance policy to confirm the coverage terms for virtual prescriptions and medications. 

How does telemedicine help with preventive healthcare in health insurance? 

Your health insurance policy allows you to obtain preventive healthcare facilities as part of your coverage benefits. You can utilize the telemedicine facility to get regular check-ups and monitor your health, Plus you can seek timely online consultations as needed. Insurance-covered telemedicine services enable you to proactively address health concerns, reducing the likelihood of serious illnesses.  

What points should you keep in mind when using telemedicine under your health insurance? 

If you are using telemedicine under health insurance, you must first check if virtual consultations are covered under your policy. You must also verify approved telemedicine platforms, follow insurer guidelines and ensure compliance with specific procedures outlined in the policy. Lastly, you must clarify the coverage details for virtual prescriptions and regularly review policy terms to stay informed about any changes or updates related to telemedicine services.