THE ROLE OF TELEMEDICINE IN IMPROVING HEALTHCARE ACCESS AND OUTCOMES

Abstract

Opportunities for digital healthcare, including telemedicine and telemonitoring, are presented by the rising number of head and neck cancer (HNC) cases and the shortage of medical experts.   One of the multidisciplinary tele practice techniques that enhances HNC management is speech-language pathology.   Initiatives in mobile health that encourage exercise and rehabilitation are beneficial to cancer survivors.   Advances in telecommunication allow for remote therapies like swallowing exercises, instruction, and symptom monitoring. The COVID-19 pandemic increases the need for home-based remote rehabilitation, although the appropriate methods are still being worked out.   Telehealth offers a novel approach across the cancer continuum, supporting patient self-management, education, and access to care, despite disparities that are skewed toward younger, English-speaking female patients and exacerbated by pandemic impacts. Digital health tools are widely used and have high expectations, according to a national survey of Portuguese cardiovascular health care professionals. While obstacles including patient technology literacy and regulatory constraints prevent wider use, the majority of participants (78%) believe digital health will improve health outcomes.