Due to the location of many rural communities, it is very challenging for rural patients to easily access many specialist physicians who typically practice in more urban centres. Travel away from a community removes patients from their support systems, induces financial burdens and can create safety concerns for patients, especially in the winter months. Telemedicine provides a cost-effective solution to improve access to care closer to home. Thus, if the option is available, and in consultation with the patient, physicians should consider utilizing telemedicine.
Another option is to have the out-of-town specialist communicate with the local physician who can provide follow up care. Local physicians should receive explicit detailed instructions as to what issues need to be addressed, and the appropriate time frame for follow-up. For more information: Jong, M., Mendez, I., & Jong, R. Enhancing access to care in northern rural communities via telehealth. Int J Circumpolar Health. 2019 May;78(2), 1554174. PMID: 31066652.
Nasser, A., & Chen, N. Telehealth in rural Canada. University of Western Ontario Medical Journal. 2014. 83(1), 49–50.
Sevean, P., Dampier, S., Spadoni, M., Strickland, S., & Pilatzke, S. Patients and families experiences with video telehealth in rural/remote communities in Northern Canada. J Clin Nurs. 2009 Sep; 18(18), 2573–2579. PMID: 19694885.