How can I use telehealth to manage chronic conditions?
Telehealth can help you manage your chronic health conditions.
What are the benefits of telehealth to manage chronic conditions?
More than half of Americans have at least one chronic condition. Heart disease, cancer, and diabetes are examples of chronic conditions. There are many benefits in using telehealth to treat these common health problem, such as:
Comfort and convenience. Spend less time traveling and waiting in your provider’s health care office or clinic.
Access to specialists. You may need to see a specialist to manage your chronic condition. Telehealth broadens the number of providers available with specialty training and expertise who may offer more effective treatment options.
Confidence and control. Telehealth uses remote monitoring devices that allow you to view and track your blood pressure, blood sugar levels, and other health measures to help you better control your chronic condition.
How can I use telehealth to manage chronic conditions?
Telehealth services with your primary care provider and specialists may include:
Video appointment. You can connect with your provider in real-time with a computer or device that has a camera, microphone and speakers. You can discuss your medicines, activity levels, diet, and changes in health data, such as blood sugar and blood pressure.
Remote patient monitoring. Use monitoring devices at home to collect and keep an eye on your health data. Devices include blood glucose meters to measure blood sugar levels for diabetes and blood pressure cuffs to check for high blood pressure.
Secure emails or texting. You can communicate with your provider by sending and receiving private messages that explain test results or images, and discuss next steps.
Did you know?
Some devices can be set up to automatically send your health data to your provider over the internet without you having to take any action.
How do I prepare for my telehealth appointment?
Below are some tips to help ensure you have a smooth telehealth visit:
- Understand your costs. Talk to your provider or insurance company to find out if telehealth is covered, what you may need to pay, and learn about your options.
- Gather information. Have a list of your current medicines and write down questions in advance.
- Practice. Make sure your technology works by testing your internet and devices.
More information:
How can I use telehealth for cancer care? — Health Resources and Services Administration
How can I use telehealth for diabetes care? — Health Resources and Services Administration
How can I use telehealth for HIV care? — Health Resources and Services Administration
What do I need to use telehealth? — Health Resources and Services Administration
What happens after my telehealth visit? — Health Resources and Services Administration
Why use telehealth? — Health Resources and Services Administration
Telehealth interventions to improve chronic disease — Centers for Disease Control and Prevent