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Telehealth for direct-to-consumer care

Asynchronous direct-to-consumer telehealth

Asynchronous telehealth allows providers and patients to share information at different times.

What is asynchronous telehealth?

Asynchronous telehealth, also known as “store-and-forward,” is often used for patient intake or follow-up care. Providers review information sent by the patient to diagnose and treat an issue. Examples of asynchronous telehealth include:

  • Sending text messages allows patients to send health-related queries and updates via secure text messages. Providers review and respond to the messages within a certain period of time.
  • Capturing and sending images enables health care providers to review the images later to determine the best action.
  • Uploading patient medical reports, lab results, digital medical imaging, or health histories allows providers to review and prepare for upcoming consultations.

Benefits for health care providers

Asynchronous direct-to-consumer telehealth can help enhance workflows through:

  • Flexibility. Since no appointment scheduling is involved, providers can review information when it fits into their schedule.
  • Efficiency. Automated patient intake through online forms or remote devices streamlines and standardizes the process.

More information:

Best practice guides — Health Resources and Services Administration

Planning your telehealth workflow — Health Resources and Services Administration

Types of telehealth — Health Resources and Services Administration

Store-and-Forward (asynchronous) — National Policy Telehealth Resource Center