The number of physicians who reported telemedicine as a skillset unsurprisingly jumped from 2019 to 2022. However, with higher adoption rates, patient preferences, proven benefits, and more insurance coverage, more providers are now looking to expand their involvement with virtual care, moving from simply a skill to an all-around career. There has been a substantial increase in interest for those entering the workforce as well. Colleges and other educational institutions have noticed and are offering more virtual care training programs and degrees for those moving ahead with a telemedicine career path.
All signs point that telemedicine is here to stay, so it is not a surprise that more established providers and new grads are looking to make it a full-time or part-time career. And, with good reason, because like many remote positions, there are advantages to being a virtual provider compared to working in person.
Flexible schedules and work/life balance
There has been a lot of focus on work/life balance since the pandemic. The “Great Resignation” prompted workers to reevaluate their careers and leave their demanding jobs in search of better opportunities. Many found that the way to attain this balance was by having a flexible schedule while working from a home office. However, traditional physicians and nurses are not known for being afforded flexibility, where being face-to-face for long hours is usually just part of the job.
A position in telemedicine allows medical professionals to practice their chosen specialty while also choosing their hours. From the comfort of their home, they can still treat patients and deliver care without an overburdened schedule, or the usual distractions found in an office or hospital environment. With no commute and the ability to choose their hours, it leaves room to pursue other interests and have more family time.
Less burnout and improved mental health
The pandemic has placed insurmountable pressure on the healthcare system – one that will most likely take years to analyze thoroughly. Grief and loss combined with overworked providers have led to a decline in motivation, increased stress, and ultimately, more strain on their mental health.
While there is stress with any job, a position in telehealth can help some avoid certain day-to-day pressures. No more overcrowded waiting rooms lead to more focus on the patient. Better follow-up opportunities give physicians the comfort of knowing they are truly delivering comprehensive care. Telemedicine allows providers to get back to doing what they went into medicine for in the first place – to help people.
Treat more patients in any environment
The last two years have taught many lessons, but one cautionary example specific to the healthcare industry is that patient volume isn’t guaranteed for in-person medical facilities. Hospital emergency departments and specialty providers saw very different fluctuations in in-person visits during COVID. While hospitals were overflowing, specialty practices all but shut down – however, both benefitted from virtual healthcare options.
Telemedicine providers were allowed to treat patients, whether lock-down orders were in place or high infection numbers kept people home, equating to job security and a stable income. No one knows what the future holds, but, whether easing the burden of overcrowding in emergency rooms or taking on patients needing specialty care, telemedicine providers are, and will remain, in demand.
But, what makes a good telemedicine provider?
The same qualities that make an excellent in-person provider also make an outstanding virtual provider. Compassion, empathy, professionalism, and respect for patients go a long way, whether talking to a patient face-to-face or online. In addition to these qualities, telemedicine physicians must have a good webside manner, including a quiet and clutter-free office space, and they should know how to communicate through body language in a virtual setting. Furthermore, virtual providers must be comfortable with the technology they use and have a reliable internet connection.
Telemedicine can help providers reach their personal and professional goals
Telemedicine can deliver an equally fulfilling career for providers as they would find in an in-person setting. By enabling virtual providers to see patients no matter the global circumstances in a more focused environment, physicians feel more productive and valued. Personal goals are also more easily acquired, as flexible schedules enable more free time outside of work. At VirtualMed Staff, we are always looking for skilled and talented physicians to apply to our team. If you are looking to make a change in your career and want to be a part of the future of healthcare, find out more.
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