Drs. Aditi U. Joshi and Brandon M. Welch’s Forbes article discusses how telehealth can improve access to healthcare, especially for underserved and marginalized communities. They argue that even though there are still big gaps in healthcare access, telehealth can help bridge these gaps.
The article points out that telehealth is crucial for addressing healthcare disparities. “Healthcare providers face significant challenges in delivering services to disadvantaged communities, with telehealth emerging as a vital tool in this endeavor” (Drs. Aditi U. Joshi and Brandon M. Welch, 2023). Telehealth helps by tackling barriers such as isolation and economic issues.
Rural areas often struggle with limited healthcare access and economic difficulties. “Geographic isolation in rural areas can limit access to health care, food, and other resources, impacting health outcomes” (Drs. Aditi U. Joshi and Brandon M. Welch, 2023); telehealth helps by reducing the need for long trips to see a doctor and supports local providers who can consult with specialists remotely.
For LGBTQ+ individuals, telehealth provides important support by offering private and knowledgeable care. “Telehealth facilitates access to sensitive and knowledgeable care, ensuring privacy and confidentiality” (Drs. Aditi U. Joshi and Brandon M. Welch, 2023); this is especially helpful for LGBTQ+ people who might face discrimination in regular healthcare settings.
The article also highlights that telehealth is cost-effective. It allows for flexible scheduling and provides care that’s respectful of different cultures, which is important for minority groups. “Telehealth offers a pathway to more equitable healthcare access by increasing the availability of specialists, overcoming transportation barriers, allowing for flexible scheduling” (Drs. Aditi U. Joshi and Brandon M. Welch, 2023).
However, the authors note that there are still challenges to overcome, such as making sure people are digitally literate, training providers for specific health needs, and keeping digital health platforms secure; “To maximize the benefits of telehealth… it’s crucial to address ongoing challenges such as digital literacy and access” (Drs. Aditi U. Joshi and Brandon M. Welch, 2023).
In summary, while telehealth has been especially important during the COVID-19 pandemic, it represents a significant step forward in providing inclusive care. Its ability to improve access and offer tailored services for underserved communities shows why it’s important to keep working on and expanding telehealth options.
Drs. Aditi U. Joshi and Brandon M. Welch. (2023, June 3). Author post: Telehealth makes Equitable Healthcare Access achievable. Forbes. https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbesbooksauthors/2024/04/18/telehealth-makes-equitable-healthcare-access-achievable/
OpenAI. (2024). ChatGPT (Sept 15 version) [Large language model]. https://chat.openai.com/chat
