Telehealth is a viable alternative to traditional in-person care, sparking an ongoing debate about each of their relative merits. This may leave people wondering about the differences between telehealth vs. in-person visits.

In this article, we’ll explore the pros and cons of telehealth and in-person care so you make informed decisions about your healthcare needs, and determine which option is right for you.

Contents

 

What is Telehealth?

Telehealth, also known as telemedicine, involves the use of digital tools to provide healthcare services remotely. A few examples:

• Sending and receiving direct messages from your healthcare provider via a patient portal.
  
  
• Email or text reminders about prescriptions.
  
  
• Remote monitoring of your blood sugar, heart rate, sleep patterns, etc.
  

More background on what telehealth is and its benefits.

Telehealth can be synchronous, where the patient and provider interact in real-time, or asynchronous, where information is shared and reviewed at different times. Types of telehealth services include:

• Synchronous Telehealth: Real-time interactions via video calls or phone calls.
  
  
• Asynchronous Telehealth: Store-and-forward technology where data, images, or messages are sent and reviewed later.
  
  
• Remote Patient Monitoring (RPM): Continuous monitoring of patients‘ health data using devices that send information to healthcare providers.

Advantages of Telehealth

Telehealth offers several advantages, especially in today’s fast-paced world. An AMA study found that medical practitioners who use telehealth the most were radiologists (39.5%), psychiatrists (27.8%), and cardiologists (24.1%). 

Convenience and accessibility

One of the most attractive things about telehealth is its convenience:

• No Travel Required: You can have a consultation from the comfort of your home, office, or even while on vacation.
  
  
• Flexible Scheduling: Appointments can be scheduled outside of traditional office hours, making it easier for those with busy schedules.

Cost-effectiveness

With insurance

Telehealth can be less expensive than in-person visits due to lower overhead costs for providers and no travel expenses for patients. 

Many insurance plans cover telehealth services, making it a more affordable option. 

If you are planning a telehealth appointment, ask your health plan if telehealth is covered and the copay or coinsurance amount. Your telehealth appointment may be through your in-network provider or a telehealth company your insurer contracts with.

Without insurance

If you don’t have health insurance, you can contact a telehealth company like AmWell, Teladoc, Doctor On Demand, or MD Live for a medical consultation and get a quote.

More access to specialists

• Specialist Referrals: Telehealth makes it easier to get specialist consultations, especially for those living in rural or underserved areas (Gajarawala & Pelkowski, 2021).
  
  
• Integrated Care: Health providers can seamlessly integrate telehealth into their healthcare systems, improving overall care coordination.

Mental health services

Telehealth has made mental health services more accessible, giving people access to counseling and therapy without the stigma of visiting a clinic (Harris, 2022).

Limitations of Telehealth

Despite its many benefits, telehealth also has its drawbacks. Here are some of the biggest limitations.

Technology barriers and connectivity issues

• Digital Divide: Not everyone has access to reliable internet or the necessary technology to participate in telehealth (Houser et al., 2023).
  
  
• Technical Difficulties: Issues like poor video quality or dropped calls can hinder effective communication between patients and providers (Gajarawala & Pelkowski, 2021). 

Lack of physical exams

• Inability to Perform Comprehensive Exams: Some conditions require a physical examination that a health provider can’t do as well via telehealth (Saljoughian, 2021).
  
  
• Potential for Misdiagnosis: Without the ability to perform a hands-on examination, there is a higher risk of misdiagnosis (Gajarawala & Pelkowski, 2021). For example, The Doctors Company said that nearly 70% of their telehealth-related claims have alleged diagnostic errors.

Privacy and security concerns

• Data Security: While most telehealth platforms are encrypted, there is always a risk of data breaches or hacking (HHS, 2023).
  
  
• Confidentiality: Ensuring privacy during a telehealth session can be challenging, especially if the patient is in a shared or public space (Houser et al., 2023).

When to Choose Telehealth

Telehealth is not suitable for every situation, but it excels in several areas.

Routine check-ups and consultations

• Primary Care: Regular check-ups and follow-up appointments can be easily managed through telehealth.
  
  
• Preventive Care: Screenings and preventive measures can often be discussed and managed remotely.

Mental health services

Telehealth provides a convenient and private way to receive mental health support like counseling and therapy.

Chronic disease management

People with chronic conditions like diabetes or hypertension can manage them through regular telehealth consultations and RPM (Harris, 2022).

Minor acute conditions

Health providers can diagnose and treat conditions like colds, minor infections, and rashes via telehealth.

What is In-Person Care?

In-person care is the traditional model of healthcare where patients visit a clinic, hospital, or specialty center to receive medical attention. This type of care is essential for many medical conditions and treatments. In-person healthcare settings include:

• Clinics: Primary care and specialized clinics offer a wide range of services.
  
  
• Hospitals: For emergency care, surgeries, and complex treatments.
  
  
• Specialty Centers: Focused on specific areas like cardiology, oncology, or orthopedics.

Advantages of In-Person Care

In-person care remains crucial for many reasons. In the same AMA study medical practitioners who use telehealth the least (in favor of in-person care) were obstetrician-gynecologists (9.3%), gastroenterologists (7.9%), and allergists/immunologists (6.1%). 

In-person care offers several unique benefits that are worth considering, as follows.

Comprehensive physical exams

• Hands-On Assessment: Allows for thorough physical examinations, which are essential for accurate diagnosis and treatment (Saljoughian, 2021).
  
  
• Immediate Diagnostic Tests: Access to lab tests, imaging, and other diagnostic procedures during the visit.

Face-to-face interaction and rapport 

• Personal Connection: Face-to-face interactions help build trust and rapport between patients and healthcare providers.
  
  
• Non-Verbal Cues: Providers can pick up on non-verbal cues that are easy to miss in virtual consultations.

Complex treatments and surgeries

• Surgical Procedures: In-person care is necessary for any surgical intervention or complex medical procedures.
  
  
• Emergency Care: Immediate, hands-on care is essential in emergencies.

Drawbacks of In-Person Care

While in-person care has its strengths, it also comes with several disadvantages.

Longer wait times and scheduling difficulties

• Appointment Delays: Patients often face long wait times for appointments and in waiting rooms.
  
  
• Scheduling Conflicts: Finding a convenient time for both the patient and provider can be challenging.

Travel requirements and associated costs

Traveling to and from healthcare facilities can be time-consuming and costly, especially for those in rural areas (Harris, 2022).

Exposure to other patients and potential infections

Visiting a healthcare facility increases the risk of exposure to other illnesses, including infectious diseases (Saljoughian, 2021).

Time away from work or family obligations

In-person visits often require taking time off work or away from family responsibilities, resulting in lost productivity.

When to Opt for In-Person Care

In-person care is indispensable in some situations, as follows.

Emergencies

Conditions like heart attacks, strokes, and severe injuries require immediate, hands-on medical attention.

Chronic or complex medical conditions

Conditions that require specialized treatment plans and hands-on management benefit from in-person care.

Diagnostic procedures and lab tests

You must complete certain tests and procedures, like blood work and imaging, in a healthcare facility for the most accurate diagnosis.

Hands-on treatments and therapies

Rehabilitation and physical therapy usually require direct interaction with healthcare providers.

Telehealth and in-person care each have their merits. Now, let’s explore how these two approaches can be combined.

Integrating Telehealth and In-Person Care

The future of healthcare likely lies in a hybrid model that combines the strengths of both telehealth and in-person care.

Hybrid models of care

A blended approach that combines telehealth for routine check-ups and follow-ups with in-person visits can better address more complex needs.

Coordinating care between virtual and physical settings

Ensuring that patient information and care plans are consistent across both telehealth and in-person settings.

Using telehealth for follow-ups after in-person visits

Follow-up appointments can often be conducted via telehealth, saving time and resources.

Conclusion

To sum up the differences in a handy-dandy chart, look at this one from Mira.

Virtual and in-person visits each have unique advantages and limitations. Telehealth offers convenience, cost savings, and improved access to care, especially for routine consultations and mental health services. However, it falls short in situations that require hands-on examinations and immediate medical interventions. 

In-person care remains essential for physical exams, complex treatments, and emergencies, but comes with the drawbacks of longer wait times, travel, and potential exposure to infections.

The best choice between telehealth and in-person care isn’t always black and white. It often depends on your specific health needs, preferences, and circumstances. When you understand the pros and cons of each approach, you can make more informed decisions about your healthcare.  

As technology continues to advance, the integration of telehealth and in-person care will likely become more innovative, sophisticated, and widespread. Remember, the goal is to find the right balance that ensures you receive the best possible care, whether it’s through a screen or in a doctor’s office.

References

Bean, K. (2023). In-Person Vs. Virtual Care: What’s The Difference & Which Is Best. Mira. Retrieved from https://www.talktomira.com/post/telehealth-vs-in-person-care-pros-and-cons

Feldman, D. L. (n.d.). Top Seven Tips for Telehealth. The Doctors Company. Retrieved from https://www.thedoctors.com/articles/top-seven-tips-for-telehealth/

Gajarawala, S. N., & Pelkowski, J. N. (2021). Telehealth Benefits and Barriers. The Journal for Nurse Practitioners, 17(2), 218-221. doi.org/10.1016/j.nurpra.2020.09.013

Harris, A. (2022). Differences between telehealth vs. in-person care. Everlywell. Retrieved from  https://www.everlywell.com/blog/virtual-care/telehealth-vs-in-person-care/

Henderson, E. (2020). Telemedicine or in-person visit? Pros and cons. News Medical. Retrieved from https://www.news-medical.net/news/20201027/Telemedicine-or-in-person-visit-Pros-and-cons.aspx

Houser, S. H., Flite, C. A., & Foster, S. L. (2023). Privacy and Security Risk Factors Related to Telehealth Services – A Systematic Review. Perspectives in Health Information Management; 20(1). 

Robeznieks, A. (2019). Which medical specialties use telemedicine the most? American Medical Association (AMA). Retrieved from https://www.ama-assn.org/practice-management/digital/which-medical-specialties-use-telemedicine-most

Saljoughian, M. (2021). The Benefits and Limitations of Telehealth. U.S. Pharmacist. Retrieved from https://www.uspharmacist.com/article/the-benefits-and-limitations-of-telehealth

Telehealth Privacy and Security Tips for Patients. (2023). U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). Retrieved from  https://www.hhs.gov/hipaa/for-professionals/privacy/guidance/telehealth-privacy-security/index.html