Did you know that over half of the hospitals in the United States are using telemedicine? This is a trend that continuing to rise.  Executives from health care practices big and small are starting to implement virtual visits within their organization. With any new changes and policy procedures that are being implemented, there will be pros and cons to be considered. No industry is perfect, there are always instances where virtual medicine will not be the best option, but we are going to point out some of the pros and cons that are related to telemedicine. 

There are the quick and obvious pros that can be associated with virtual care. Patients are provided with better access to their health care professionals. This results in happier patients because they are able to meet with their doctor on their terms. They will have a better relationship with their doctor because their doctor will seem more accessible. Many patients prefer interacting with their health care providers via technology rather than in person visits. Convenience is the one factor everyone is looking for to make their lives a little easier. 

Patients are more engaging with their providers through virtual care. Virtual visits help patients keep their appointments better. Follow up appointment and care are more easily scheduled into their lives. Having the health care professionals and patients engage more via technology can help with goals and follow ups that would otherwise be hard to keep. It also allows a better venue for patients to reach out with questions they may have concerning their care. Warning signs may be reported earlier and follow ups may help catch other symptoms or ailments that may have otherwise been missed. 

One of the cons for patients using telemedicine is that they may not be able to connect with their personal health care provider. Some telemedicine services may connect them with a doctor at random. This can provide complications that result from not being able to see the patients chart and know their previous history. Some medical issues this may not be a problem with. Some ailment can be addressed and fixed without any background information. But if a patient is being treated for a long term issue, it may be helpful to make sure their provider has the ability to do virtual visits. 

Virtual visits are not for everyone. Some people will still want to experience the in person visit. And the fact of the matter is, not all visits can be done virtually. It is important to understand that virtual healthcare is not replacing the in person healthcare. It is only to be considered a supplement to their general healthcare. Look at it as a way to be able to connect with your doctor when the cause and demand occurs. But also make sure that you stay ahead of your health and still go to your in person checkups. Being able to connect with your doctor in and out of the office allows for better communication regarding your healthcare needs.