medical coding training at home.
Telemedicine is changing the way we practice medicine. It is simply the use of audiovisual media to transfer clinical information for consultation, diagnosis, training, and even the performance of remote medical procedures. This technological aspect of medicine is developing rapidly and it is but a matter of time before it becomes more mainstream. Videoconferencing allows a patient to actually see a medical specialist at another location. The patient/physician encounter occurs real time similar to a live broadcast. Tools have been developed which allow the clinician to evaluate cardiac monitoring, vital signs, etc. Additionally, otoscopes and stethoscopes have been adapted to this technology which is akin to the physician being in the same room as the patient..
The use of telemedicine is versatile and can go anywhere. Its potential advantages include:
- greater accessibility to medical care - especially in rural locations
- decreased visits to emergency room and physician offices due to home monitoring
- improved health outcomes due to earlier treatment and diagnosis
- support of clinical education programs
- support for patients and families
- reduced extended travel with its adverse affect on the environment
Although, the use of telemedicine is very exciting, there are some key factors that must be taken into consideration prior to its use becoming universal. These include:
- legal complications, laws, code of ethics
- compensation for services provided
- clinical risks
- reduction in personal interaction between the physician and patient
If used appropriately, it would appear that telemedicine would serve to enhance the practice of medicine greatly. It should by no means be used as a replacement for actual "face to face" interaction - but serve as an adjunct to the delivery of quality and efficient medical care.
medical coding training at home.