Is Virtual Health Care Good Enough?
Many people question the effectiveness and thoroughness of virtual care
Virtual health care has emerged as a revolutionary tool, promising to reshape how we access and receive medical services. However, many people are left pondering a crucial question: Is virtual health care truly effective, or does it fall short in delivering comprehensive and personalized medical attention?
As a physical therapist, I have embraced virtual care, not as a replacement for in-person care, but rather, as an adjunct. One of the biggest impediments to clinical progress is adherent care. If a patient cannot access appropriate healthcare services, the outcomes will likely suffer.
For those balancing demanding work schedules, school commitments, or childcare responsibilities, virtual sessions provide unmatched flexibility. The GoodRx Research team’s investigation into healthcare access in the U.S. highlights the critical issue of “healthcare deserts” — areas lacking essential health services such as pharmacies, primary care providers, hospitals, trauma centers, and low-cost health centers. Their study uncovered several key findings: Over 80% of U.S. counties are deficient in at least one critical area of healthcare infrastructure, affecting more than a third of the population.
