Doctors in Norway Share Thoughts: How Virtual Visits Are Changing Everything

In Norway, doctors are seeing more changes with remote consultations in general practice. This shift to digital is happening quickly, so it's important to keep an eye on how it affects healthcare organizations and the overall system. Doctors have a lot to say about this, and it's crucial to listen. Remote consultations can be really convenient. They can save time for both doctors and patients. Patients can avoid long waits and doctors can have more time to help others. But is it too good to be true? Some doctors think it might be. The personal touch of face-to-face visits is something that can't be replaced. Doctors worry that important details might get missed when they can't see a patient in person. Body language and expressions can tell a lot, and that's lost in a video call. Communication can also be tricky. Not all patients are comfortable with technology, and that can make it hard for them to talk to their doctor. This is a big worry for some doctors, who don't want anyone to feel left out. The way general practice works might change because of this. Doctors might need to learn new skills or use new tools. There could be new rules and guidelines too. This could be a big job for doctors and their organizations. But there's also a chance for improvement. Doctors could have more flexibility in their work. Maybe they could work from home more, or have more time for other tasks. This could be a good thing for doctors and patients alike. To make the most of this change, there needs to be a careful plan. Doctors and healthcare leaders need to work together to make sure the shift to remote consultations is a success. They need to listen to patients too, to make sure everyone's needs are met.