February 1, 2022 · EZaccessMD Team
Incomplete vs. Complete Telemedicine
With COVID-19 came a whole new level of telemedicine adoption. But not all telemedicine is created equal — here's the difference between incomplete and complete models.
It was already the trend before 2020, but with COVID-19 came a whole new level of consumers using the convenience of technology to bring their lifestyle to them. Groceries delivered, movies streamed, team meetings from the kitchen table — and now doctor's visits through telemedicine.
But not all telemedicine is created equal.
Incomplete Telemedicine
Incomplete telemedicine stops at the phone call or video chat. When symptoms require physical examination or diagnostic testing, the patient is directed elsewhere — to urgent care or the ER. The consultation may be convenient, but it doesn't resolve the underlying medical need.
Complete Telemedicine
Complete telemedicine starts with the same consultation but adds the capability to dispatch mobile medical units when in-person diagnostics are needed. Strep tests, X-rays, EKGs, ultrasounds — all delivered to the patient's location.
The result is a healthcare experience that actually resolves the problem from start to finish, without requiring the patient to visit a separate facility.