LAS VEGAS (KTNV) — Telemedicine is becoming the new normal for doctors and patients in Las Vegas during the COVID-19 pandemic.
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“For those of us in a small practice, there have been several barriers,” says Dr. Thomas Hunt, Roseman University.
Telemedicine uses modern technology to still care for patients.
The virtual appointment concept isn’t new, but it wasn’t as supported as it is now.
Dr. Hunt says a lot of the previous concerns over telemedicine were about technology and personal privacy.
“Now that we’ve gotten past those hurdles that have been in our way, this is going to become the new normal,” says Dr. Hunt.
Dr. Hunt conducts telemedicine visits himself, and says the adjustment has been harder for older patients.
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Through the Clark County Medical Society and the Nevada Academy of Family Physicians, Dr. Thomas has been helping workers switch to the virtual world.
“Sometimes it’s just a matter of talking about what platforms are available, what is the safest connection, how to set yourself up,” says Dr. Hunt.
A Rand Corporation study found that telemedicine visits cost less than office visits.
The study also found patients may book more virtual appointments, and end up spending more money.
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