The Pros and Cons of Telehealth vs. Traditional Healthcare

The COVID-19 pandemic sparked a telehealth boom, increasing patient access to healthcare services in a wide variety of specialties. But that doesn’t mean traditional healthcare is obsolete, far from it in fact. Some patients prefer in-person, or perhaps they have a health concern, injury or emergency that requires in person care. On the flip side, maybe you wake up with a painful cold sore and need a prescription, instead of having to go in-person, telehealth can be a quicker, cheaper option.

Understanding the advantages and disadvantages of the two can empower us to make informed decisions about our health. Let’s dive into the pros and cons of telehealth and traditional healthcare to shed light on the choices available. 

The pros and cons of telehealth 

Pros:

1. Accessibility: One of the key advantages of telehealth is its accessibility. Is your car in the shop? Are you watching the kids? Out of town? With telehealth’s growing technology, it’s incredibly easy to meet with a provider from anywhere. Individuals can connect with healthcare professionals from the comfort of their homes via phone calls, video calls or asynchronous messaging. This is especially beneficial for those living in remote or rural areas or facing mobility challenges. 

2. Time efficiency: If you’re having a busy week at work or need to watch the kids, telehealth can be a great way to maximize your time while still getting the care you need. With a phone or smart device, patients can schedule appointments and receive consultations without the hassle of commuting. 

3. Expanded provider options: Not all health issues can be fixed by a single provider. Virtual care helps patients access a wider range of healthcare professionals, no matter where they are. Whether it is a provider specializing in a specific condition or one who can speak a certain language, telehealth can expand a patient's provider options. They’re not limited to their closest doctors office. 

4. Cost savings: Virtual consultations often come with lower costs compared to in-person visits. Without the need for travel expenses or facility fees, you can save money while still receiving the quality care you need. For those paying in cash, this can be the difference between getting care and avoiding it.

5. Alleviating healthcare facility burdens: Raise your hand if you’ve ever had to wait 30+ minutes in the waiting room to be seen for a simple cold or flu…us too. It’s often caused by limited staff and overworked physicians. The reality is, telehealth can effectively address non-emergency issues remotely, providing relief for both patients and providers. 

6. Continuity of care: Unfortunately, some health issues can become chronic requiring consistent care. With the help of virtual care, there can be continuous remote communication between patients and healthcare providers. This continuity of care ensures that individuals can easily follow up on their health concerns and receive timely advice or treatment changes. 

Cons:

1. Limited physical examination: While innovation in virtual healthcare is advancing, certain medical procedures and complex surgeries still require hands-on expertise that can only be provided through traditional, in-person methods. However, telehealth is a great tool to use for follow-ups after surgeries or procedures—allowing the patient to limit movement and heal at home. 

2. Technological barriers: While telehealth does close a lot of the gaps traditional healthcare’s created, there are still some barriers when it comes to technology. Not everyone has access to a laptop, smartphone or wifi. That’s why healthcare organizations are pushing for more coverage for asynchronous methods like phone calls. 

3. Privacy and technological concerns: Transmitting sensitive health information over the Internet raises concerns about privacy. Connectivity problems or poor audio or video quality can also hinder an effective telehealth visit. Although telehealth platforms prioritize security measures, patients may still worry about the confidentiality of their personal health data.

The pros and cons of traditional healthcare

Pros:

1. Comprehensive physical touch: Traditional healthcare allows for hands-on examinations by healthcare professionals. This physical presence allows a more thorough assessment, especially for conditions that require direct observation or touch.

2. Immediate care: In emergency situations or cases requiring urgent attention, traditional healthcare provides immediate access to medical professionals and facilities. This prompt response can be critical in certain medical scenarios.

3. Established relationships: While you may be able to build a relationship in some telehealth scenarios, in-person visits foster the development of personal relationships between patients and healthcare providers. This connection can enhance trust and communication, contributing to a more holistic approach to healthcare.

4. Access to onsite resources: Traditional healthcare often offers access to advanced diagnostic tools and facilities, allowing for precise assessments and testing. In-person care is ideal for medical needs such as vaccinations, blood draws and other medical procedures. 

Cons:

1. Geographical barriers: Traditional healthcare is often limited by geographical constraints. Individuals living in remote or rural areas may face challenges in accessing medical facilities, leading to delays in care and potential health disparities.

2. Time constraints: In-person visits can be time-consuming, from scheduling appointments to waiting in crowded waiting rooms. This time limitation may pose challenges for individuals with busy schedules or mobility issues.

3. Costs and overhead: Traditional healthcare often is paired with higher costs. This is due to facility fees, overhead expenses and travel-related expenditures. These financial burdens can be a barrier for individuals with limited resources and may limit the number of people who seek help for their health issues.

4. Potential exposure to infections: Visiting healthcare facilities in person carries the risk of exposure to contagious illnesses, especially during flu seasons or with COVID-19. This risk may be a concern for individuals with compromised immune systems.

Which is the better option and how can Agile help you?

Both types of care have their pros and cons and choosing the best option depends on individual preferences, medical needs and accessibility. Telehealth offers a helping hand to convenience and efficiency while traditional healthcare provides comprehensive in-person care and the opportunity for immediate attention. 

But who says we can’t have both? Health organizations and providers alike are seeing positive results when utilizing a hybrid-care plan. For non-essential in-person visits, providers are tapping into telehealth to monitor health data and see patients virtually for visit types like follow-ups and triage. 

As technology continues to advance, the healthcare industry will likely see further integration of telehealth solutions, providing even more options for individuals to take charge of their health. In the meantime, we believe everyone should have access to excellent healthcare, regardless of where you are or when you need it. At Agile, we offer convenient, virtual care across the U.S. for your most common medical conditions. Our network of providers is ready to address your unique concerns to deliver effective, personalized treatment in a timely manner. Explore our full list of available treatments today.