The Impact of Telehealth in Patient Care: A Review of Advantages and Challenges

Abstract

The rapid adoption of telehealth technologies has significantly transformed healthcare delivery, particularly in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. This review explores the various challenges associated with telehealth in patient care, including technological barriers, regulatory complexities, privacy and data security concerns, and the potential impacts on provider-patient relationships. Despite the advantages of telehealth, such as improved access and convenience, these challenges can hinder effective care delivery. Technological barriers, including limited internet access and digital literacy, disproportionately affect vulnerable populations, while inconsistent regulations create confusion among providers. Additionally, concerns regarding patient privacy and data breaches raise critical questions about the security of telehealth platforms. Furthermore, the shift to virtual interactions may diminish the quality of provider-patient relationships, potentially impacting patient satisfaction and outcomes. To address these issues, this review offers several recommendations, including enhancing technological infrastructure, standardizing regulations, prioritizing data security, and fostering strong provider-patient connections. By implementing these strategies, stakeholders can optimize the telehealth experience, ensuring it serves as a robust and effective component of modern healthcare delivery. This review underscores the need for ongoing collaboration among healthcare providers, policymakers, and technology developers to navigate the complexities of telehealth and improve patient care outcomes in an increasingly digital world.