Telemedicine

Simple Definition for Beginners:

Telemedicine refers to the remote delivery of healthcare services, including consultations, diagnoses, prescriptions, and monitoring, using telecommunications technology.

Common Use Example:

A patient consults with a doctor via a video call to discuss symptoms, receive medical advice, and get a prescription without visiting a clinic in person.

Technical Definition for Professionals:

Telemedicine is a subset of telehealth that specifically focuses on providing clinical healthcare services remotely through digital communication channels. It involves virtual consultations between patients and healthcare providers using video conferencing, phone calls, secure messaging platforms, and other telecommunication tools. Telemedicine encompasses various medical specialties, including primary care, specialty care, mental health services, dermatology, cardiology, and more. It enables healthcare professionals to assess patients, make diagnoses, prescribe medications, recommend treatments, and monitor progress without physical proximity. Telemedicine improves access to healthcare, reduces wait times, enhances patient convenience, and supports continuity of care across geographical distances.