What is Telemedicine: More Than a Convenience
So, what is telemedicine? Telemedicine, also known as telehealth, is the use of technology (video, phone, computers, and messaging) for healthcare providers and patients to communicate in real time. It allows healthcare providers to diagnose and treat remotely, instead of face to face appointments. Telemedicine lets patients discuss symptoms, medical issues, and more with physicians and counselors in real time using secure, HIPAA compliant tools. It is being used for all types of non-medical emergencies including behavioral health and substance abuse treatment.
Telemedicine has become widely popular for mental health treatments and there are several services available for behavioral health treatments. While telemedicine is hugely convenient, there are several other benefits to it and why it is growing in popularity. Here are some benefits of telemedicine:
- Expands accessibility to treatment. Individuals living in rural areas or without reliable transportation have easier access to doctors and counselors. Those living in remote areas can also access specialized treatment which may be limited in smaller towns or cities.
- Reduces delays in care. Getting an appointment with a healthcare provider can often take weeks, especially when it comes to mental health services. Telemedicine has allowed doctors and counselors to see more patients, shortening their wait times.
- Allows for social distancing. Individuals who are immunocompromised or struggle with anxiety or agoraphobia, will often put off getting appropriate mental health treatment out of fear of being around others or in public spaces. Telemedicine allows these individuals a safe space from home to overcome these obstacles.
- Instant access to healthcare. Some telehealth services can connect you with healthcare providers 24/7 and sometimes even connect immediately or within a few hours. This is especially beneficial for those in mental health crises who need to talk to a counselor quickly.
- Increases commitment and consistency to treatment plans. With busy schedules, long commutes, and home obligations, individuals will find it challenging to keep weekly appointments with their therapist or support groups. Being able to access mental health care from anywhere at any time has proven to increase patient retention and commitment to treatment.
- Less expensive. Providers can reduce overhead expenses which allows them to lower costs. This is also part of expanded accessibility; more people can access mental health treatment thanks to lower costs.
- Reduces needed time off of work. Patients can talk to their healthcare provider during lunch breaks or directly after work without having to leave their workplaces or take extra time off for commute times.
- Improves patient experience. Patients do not have to stress about being late to an appointment or spend an extensive time in waiting rooms.
Click here for job protection & behavioral health, call Union First today at (855) 215-2023.
How Popular is Telemedicine?
Since the COVID-19 pandemic, telemedicine popularity has greatly risen. During this time when social distancing was necessary, many providers switched to telehealth services out of necessity which allowed them to experience several benefits and positive outcomes. Today, patient views have shifted about using technology to communicate with their doctors. A RAND American Life Panel, surveyed 1,600 participants in February 2019, May 2020, August 2020, and March 2021 found that willingness to use video telehealth increased from 51% in February 2019 to 62% in March 2021. Also, about 12% of people reported using telehealth services in May 2020, which was up more than three times than in February 2019. That number then increased to almost 20% in August 2020 and to 45% by March 2021. This increase is not only due to individual’s willingness to use the services, but also because more healthcare providers are providing telehealth services.
What Services Can You Get Through Telemedicine?
Several types of medicine are now available remotely. You can get advice for non-medical emergencies such as a suspected infected cut, birth control, dermatological issues, and sometimes doctors can even monitor some vitals remotely. When it comes to mental health treatment, there are several types of services you can receive through telehealth or teletherapy, including:
- Behavioral Health Treatment. Behavioral health is an umbrella term that includes mental health. While it includes treatment for mental health disorders and substance use disorders, individuals can also access telehealth services for improving healthy habits, such as a behavioral health coach who can help prevent the onset of more serious mental health conditions before they occur.
- Individual Teletherapy. Mental health providers can use online and virtual mental health tools to deliver one-on-one therapy which can include individual counseling, couples counseling, and family counseling. Individuals can access most of the same mental health treatments online as they would in person.
- Group Teletherapy. Those struggling with mental health or substance use disorders benefit from group therapy as a way to find comradery, accountability, and get different perspectives on their issues. A counselor will lead online group therapy just as they would in person.
- Telehealth Treatment for Substance Use Disorder. Online drug and alcohol rehab programs are available as well. People can access many of the same addiction therapies online as they would in person and even complete a whole outpatient program remotely. This is also a great option for those transitioning from inpatient care to the real world.
Is Telemedicine Covered for Union Members?
Union members often benefit from greater health insurance benefits than their non-unionized counterparts. Union health insurance can include telehealth services. Union members, public service employees and their families may also have access to Union First, an employee assistance program just for them. Part of our services at Union First include telehealth services through our private network of over 40 providers. We can get you online mental health or substance abuse treatment quickly by getting you an appointment with a healthcare provider who fits your needs and takes your insurance within 24 to 48 hours of contacting us. Quick access to behavioral health treatment can prevent symptoms from getting worse and improve treatment outcomes. Members can access our telehealth services as part of their aftercare program.
Click here for job protection & behavioral health, call Union First today at (855) 215-2023.
Union First: Job Protection & Behavioral Health Services for Union Members
Telehealth services is only a small part of services members can access through Union First. We can also connect you or your family member to behavioral health programs in your area, including virtual intensive outpatient programs (Virtual IOP). Through our initial assessment of your case, we will match you with treatment programs that fit your needs, take your insurance, and are in the area of your choosing. Our team will go through various options with you, what they mean, and answer any questions you may have. Using Union First can eliminate hours of online searching and the risk of choosing the treatment center that is not right for you.
Members also have access to our team of experts who know how to use federal and state laws to protect your job when you seek behavioral health treatment. Often, workers are hesitant to get the help they need out of fear of losing their job from their employer finding out about mental health or substance abuse issues, or from taking time off to get adequate treatment. We know your employment rights and will make sure you are never discriminated against or lose your job due to getting mental health or addiction treatment.
Union First is available 24/7 to take your call and help you in any way we can. Whether you need telehealth services quickly or are ready to enter a behavioral health treatment program, please do not hesitate to contact us today.