Digital transformation in healthcare is fundamentally about improving patient engagement, patient experience, and health outcomes. This requires technologies that improve access between providers and their patients. Telehealth technology supports these core initiatives, and as a result, the interest and growth are surging.
Digital communications is playing a major role in Australia’s fight against the coronavirus. We have had to move quickly to adopt telemedicine. The Australian Government introduced a temporary scheme from March to September 2020, allowing health professionals to treat patients virtually or over the phone. This has been embraced enthusiastically by Australians. It turns out that we have had the largest uptake globally in new users of telemedicine services during the COVID-19 pandemic. ABC News reports that doctors in rural and regional Australia are urging the Government to continue the telehealth scheme, saying it will help to close Australia’s health gap.
The point of care is not necessarily where the physician is, it’s where the patient is
The implications of COVID-19 have certainly impacted this trend, and many providers are now planning beyond their interim demands to more permanent telehealth programs. Through connected telehealth, providers can leverage cloud-based message, video, and phone capabilities together in a single application to expand their reach and treat patients wherever there is an internet connection.
To learn more about building a connected telehealth program download our eBook which explores the key industry trends, business drivers, critical use cases, and benefits to consider when developing your program.
Originally published 22 Jul, 2020
