Judd E. Hollander, M.D., and Brendan G. Carr, M.D.
Recognizing that patients prioritize convenient and inexpensive care, in-person visits should become the second, third, or even last option for meeting patient needs.Previous work has specifically described the potential for using telemedicine in disasters and public health emergencies.
It can allow physicians and patients to communicate 24/7, using smartphones or webcam-enabled computers. More than 50 U.S. health systems already have such programs. Much medical decision making is cognitive, and telemedicine can provide rapid access to sub-specialists who aren’t immediately available in person. The barriers to implementing these programs are largely related to payment, credentialing, and staffing of specialists.1
Discussion: Dr. Kyle Habet
In Belize, our platform offers convenient, reliable care to all Belizeans and tourists from Corozal to Toledo. Social distancing is un deniably the best preventative measure to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 and utilizing this platform is protective for you, your family and the community.2
References
1. Hollander JE, Carr BG. Virtually Perfect? Telemedicine for Covid-19. N Engl J Med. March 2020:NEJMp2003539. doi:10.1056/NEJMp2003539
2. Belize Announces New Measures in Response to COVID-19 – Government of Belize Press Office. https://www.pressoffice.gov.bz/belize-announces-new-measures-in-response-to-covid-19/. Accessed April 11, 2020.
