A Caregiver’s Guide to Telehealth: Benefits of Telehealth for Your Clients & Loved Ones – Part 1

By Roz Jones

Telehealth has grown almost sevenfold since COVID-19 began to spread. While virtual doctor visits and remote monitoring devices could make medical care more convenient and accessible for any patient, your clients or Loved Ones may have the most to gain.

In March 2020, Medicare temporarily expanded coverage of telehealth services for most beneficiaries for office visits, preventive health screenings, and mental health services. At least some of these provisions may become permanent thanks to proposed legislation.

Find out how telehealth can help you, as a Caregiver, assist your clients or Loved Ones to maintain their independence and take care of their mental and physical health. Study this quick guide for those who want to see a doctor without leaving home.

Benefits of Telehealth for Your Clients/Loved Ones:

1. Enjoy more convenience. How far do you have to drive to the doctor’s office for your client/Loved One? With a virtual visit, you can forget about traffic and parking. Plus, if the doctor is busy, you can entertain yourself and your clientor Loved One at home instead of being stuck in the waiting room.
   
2. Treat chronic conditions. Almost 80% of seniors have at least one chronic condition, according to the National Council on Aging. Telehealth is ideal for the ongoing care needed to manage the typical symptoms of diabetes, cancer, and other chronic issues.
   
3. Access specialists. Depending on where your client or Loved One lives, they may be in for a long wait when a specialist is needed. Online care is more efficient, so it may speed up the process.
   
4. Support caregivers. Telehealth is great for caregivers and can also assist you with daily needs. Monitoring devices can free up your time by performing some routine tasks, and counseling services can help reduce stress.
   
5. Be proactive. Virtual care also empowers your clients or Loved Ones to play a greater role in staying healthy. For example, your client or Loved One has the ability to take their own blood pressure daily and upload the results.

Telehealth can help your client or Loved One to continue social distancing while receiving the medical care they need. Ask your client or Loved One’s doctor about which options are appropriate for them.