Exploring Advantages and Challenges of Synchronous Video Telehealth

Telehealth has persisted as a critical care delivery option in the post-COVID-19 public health emergency (PHE) landscape. Adoption and utilization of telehealth remain far higher than pre-PHE levels; however, this spike in telehealth use revealed the vast digital divide that prevents vulnerable communities from reaping the technology’s benefits.There are several types of telehealth, including synchronous video, asynchronous, and audio-only telehealth. Each type has unique advantages, use cases, and challenges. Here, mHealthIntelligence will explore synchronous video-based telehealth.Synchronous telehealth refers to live, real-time patient-provider interaction via audio-visual technology, according to the United States Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). In this telehealth setting, patients communicate directly with their clinicians, enabling diagnoses, decision-making around treatment plans, and follow-up care. Synchronous video visits have proved beneficial for both patients and healthcare providers.For one, research shows video visits positively affect clinical care, particularly for those with chronic conditions.