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Why Patients Recovering from Addiction Are Embracing Telemedicine

Telemedicine Doctor In Boca Raton

Out of all deadly diseases in the U.S., alcoholism ranks third. Even so, only about one in five people who struggle with alcohol addiction or problem drinking seek treatment. Thankfully, telehealth providers and telemedicine services, like your local telemedicine doctor in Boca Raton, FL, are changing that! Here are just a few reasons why telemedicine is particularly suited for alcohol recovery and addiction treatment:

Telehealth Banishes Stigma

Unfortunately, a big reason people do not get help is that they feel embarrassed. A telemedicine doctor in Boca Raton, FL–and telehealth services across the U.S.–can help patients get treatment confidentially, and whenever and wherever they feel most comfortable. According to a study from the National Epidemiologic Survey on Alcohol and Related Conditions (NESARC), patients opted out of treatment because they were worried about losing their job, “afraid of what [their] boss, family, friends, or others may think,” or simply too full of shame to openly discuss recovery options and alcoholism treatment.

Telemedicine allows recovering patients to get help on their schedule. That flexibility affords those in recovery the option of sharing as much–or as little–with their employers. It is a one-on-one or group treatment option that takes place primarily electronically, also giving U.S. men and women the freedom to disclose treatment or treatments at their own pace–or keep them private from immediate family and friends.

No More Time Barriers

Again, telehealth and telemedicine provide flexibility in regards to timing. That is optimal when trying to juggle a job and errands and raise a family, but it can also be an instrumental element for those seeking treatment. Period.

Why? Cravings come and go, as does resolve to do something tangible about them. With telemedicine, patients can reach out immediately. A telemedicine doctor in Boca Raton, FL can make sure that you receive at least some care that same day–whether it entails therapy, medication, or a private one-on-one consultation with a doctor. Responding immediately when patients need it most can be a critically reaffirming part of alcoholism or addiction recovery treatment.

Telemedicine Provides Many–If Not All–Of The Benefits Of In-Person Treatment

Telemedicine refers to virtual healthcare that occurs online, or over various apps, like Skype and Google Hangouts. Some providers may even have their own secure apps for you to download and use at your convenience.

Doctors who confer with you over the phone or through an app can still prescribe medication. They can still discuss symptoms and test results. Some patients can even use doctor-approved equipment to log their results via the web. Equipment testing blood sugar or glucose levels, blood pressure, heart rate, and more can all be utilized from the comfort of your home.

Plus, new apps enable patients to work one-on-one with peers, recovery coaches, or therapists. Licensed recovery coaches and therapists can help you set goals, measure consumption levels, and come up with a plan. The app will give you the tools to track your progress and check-in with friends who are also quitting, or report to your doctor or therapist if you choose that option.

Insurance Companies Are Doing Their Part

Finally, insurance companies are recognizing that healthcare is not a one-size-fits-all model. More and more providers are cottoning on to the realities that you may have a limited schedule, familial obligations, work meetings, or travel restrictions. In other words, your best — and most realistic option — may be getting treatment at home.

While it is not a given (ask your insurance provider about telehealth and addiction recovery and telemedicine), the popularity and demand for this option are growing. Currently, telehealth tailored to those in alcohol recovery programs is supported by providers in roughly 22 to 23 states. Plus, an early study of telemedicine and alcohol recovery showed promising results–with a full 66% of participants successfully reducing their alcohol intake in six months.

As many as 33% of patients fully recover from alcoholism and problem drinking, according to WebMD. Talk to a telemedicine doctor in Boca Raton, FL today, and get your life back.

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