The Impact of Temporary Telemedicine Policies on Chronic Disease Care in South Korea

In South Korea, telemedicine has been used to manage chronic diseases for a while now. But how effective and safe is it when used nationwide? Let's dive in! Researchers looked back at national claims data to figure out how well a temporary telemedicine policy worked. They wanted to see if it helped people with long-term health issues. The study found that telemedicine was indeed helpful. It made it easier for patients to get care, especially those who lived far from hospitals. Plus, it saved time and money.However, there were some worries about safety. Some doctors and patients weren't sure if telemedicine could catch all the health problems. They thought in-person visits might be better for picking up subtle signs. Think about it—can a video call really replace a doctor's physical exam? It's a good question to ponder. In the end, telemedicine seems to be a great tool, but it might not replace all in-person care. It's all about finding the right balance.