
This may include giving medical advice, walking them through at-home exercises, or recommending them to a local provider or facility. Healthcare providers may use telehealth platforms like live video, audio, or instant messaging to address a patient’s concerns and diagnose their condition remotely. The term telemedicine refers specifically to the treatment of various medical conditions without seeing the patient in person. Learn more about the differences between these terms and how they relate to the digitization of healthcare.

With new terms like telemedicine and virtual care taking the industry by storm, healthcare professionals need to make sure they’re using the right language when educating patients on the benefits of these new digital tools. This is especially beneficial for those who live in rural communities, who frequently would otherwise need to drive long distances to their local doctor’s office or to see a specialist. With the help of live video, audio, and instant messaging, patients can now interface with healthcare providers from the comfort of their own home. Fortunately, digital technology is making it easier for healthcare professionals to communicate with their patients, breaking down the barriers that can impede a patient’s access to medical care.

The healthcare industry is evolving at a rapid pace as professionals and facilities look for ways to increase their patients’ access to care while decreasing the overall cost of healthcare.

Virtual Care: Defining the Difference Finding the Right Term for Modern, Digital Healthcare
