How to conduct a physical exam via telemedicine
December 1, 2022
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Telemedicine, or the use of technology-based virtual platforms to access health information and medical care, is expanding. Telemedicine can be especially beneficial for patients with long-term, chronic conditions such as diabetes.
This article will discuss how telehealth can be optimised to manage diabetes mellitus and how it compares to traditional care methods.
How can telehealth benefit diabetic patients?
Telehealth offers many benefits for diabetic patients who require frequent appointments and long-term treatment:
● Virtual consultations are not only more convenient but also save time and travel costs.
● Improved engagement with healthcare providers, through video consultations, secure messaging, and access to information and advice, can increase compliance with treatment and recommended lifestyle changes.
● Remote-monitoring of blood sugar enables physicians to evaluate treatment effectiveness and detect early warning signs which may indicate the need for intervention.
● Medication management is easier with e-prescribing and home delivery of medication.
Telehealth is particularly beneficial for diabetics living in remote or underserved areas, with less access to specialist physicians.
How is remote monitoring used in diabetes management?
At the most basic level, patients use fingerstick home testing and self-report their blood glucose level to their healthcare provider. Using more advanced technology, measure blood glucose every 5 minutes via a small sensor inserted into the skin. By connecting to telemedicine platforms using Bluetooth and cloud-based data storage, blood glucose data is continually shared to a patient’s providers. Some systems send blood sugar level alerts or reminders to take medication. Smart insulin delivery systems like pumps and pens can also calculate and track insulin dosage data.
How effective is telemedicine for diabetes?
Compared to conventional care, telemedicine has been shown to be more effective in improving treatment outcomes for diabetes patients, especially for those with type 2 diabetes. Remote monitoring of glucose levels has been demonstrated to improve A1C levels (a measure of average blood sugar over the past 2 to 3 months) in people with previously poor glucose control as well as increase patient satisfaction. A meta-analysis of over 100 randomised clinical trials found modest improvements in A1C levels, as well as reduced costs for diabetic patients who used telemedicine compared to in-person care.
How effective is telemedicine for diabetes?
Compared to conventional care, telemedicine has been shown to be more effective in improving treatment outcomes for diabetes patients, especially for those with type 2 diabetes. Remote monitoring of glucose levels has been demonstrated to improve A1C levels (a measure of average blood sugar over the past 2 to 3 months) in people with previously poor glucose control as well as increase patient satisfaction. A meta-analysis of over 100 randomised clinical trials found modest improvements in A1C levels, as well as reduced costs for diabetic patients who used telemedicine compared to in-person care.
Can diabetes be managed without ever visiting a doctor?
Comprehensive, routine diabetic management can be successfully achieved using telemedicine and remote monitoring of blood sugar provided. Both patients and providers should have access to appropriate devices and internet connection, as well as training and support. Clinical judgement must be exercised to identify issues that require in-person consultation.
Diabetic patients receiving telehealth care require at least annual in-person visits for physical and sensory examination of the skin and extremities, especially the feet. Annual screening for diabetic retinopathy, which can cause vision impairment, is also required. Where appropriate imaging technology is available, teleretinal screening allows for remote evaluation of retinal photos obtained at a primary care clinic or care home.
How can clinicians optimise telehealth for diabetic patients?
- To improve care delivery, the American Diabetes Association recommends offering self-management support and promoting shared decision-making.
- Electronic messaging and virtual check-ins with a nurse or diabetes educator between physician visits can be used to help increase patient engagement in their diabetic management and improve outcomes.
- To establish workflows to effectively care for patients remotely, investment may be required for staff, training and technology.
- Healthcare providers should identify patients who require extra support to use telehealth technology.
In summary
Telemedicine offers many benefits for the routine management of diabetes mellitus, such as improved patient satisfaction, reduced costs and improved outcomes. In-person visits are still required for annual screening and to address issues identified during telemedicine visits.
Are you looking for the ideal telemedicine software?
Realise the full potential of integrated remote patient monitoring and telemedicine with Medoment’s innovative and comprehensive patient engagement platform.
Medoment is a state-of-the-art telehealth platform designed by the team at HT Works who specialise in integrated and affordable solutions to the current challenges in healthcare. Medoment is a complete engagement solution, with remote patient monitoring software, teleconsultations and a patient engagement portal within a single platform.
Key features of Medoment:
- Integrated remote patient monitoring app
- Smart physician search
- List & connects all your facilities on one platform
- Accessible on all devices through easy to use website or mobile app ● Both web-based and cloud-based
- Direct appointment scheduling and management
- Automated appointment reminders
- Seamless integration of teleconsultations
- Online consent management and virtual waiting room
- Fully integrates with your existing EMR and health information systems ● Improved engagement via secure direct messaging
- Uploading and sharing of clinical documents and test results
- Secure payment gateway option
- Expert advice and professional implementation services
- Initial orientation training and ongoing IT support
- Industry Standard Security and Data Protection Compliance (HIPAA and GDPR compliant)
To find out more, or book a demonstration, contact us today.
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