TELEMEDICINE

Telemedicine is the remote exchange of medical information through secure electronic communication to support diagnosis, consultation, treatment, and monitoring. “Telemedicine” and “telehealth” are often used interchangeably, although telehealth encompasses a broader range of services (eg, videoconferencing, image transmission, remote monitoring). Its main value lies in expanding access to care for medically and socially vulnerable populations, patients in rural or underserved areas, and during circumstances that make in-person consultation impractical (eg, pandemics, mobility limitations). Evidence supports its effectiveness in improving patient satisfaction, continuity of care, and management of chronic and acute non–life-threatening conditions. <a id="