Essentially, TeleHomeCare facilitates independent living. The TeleHomeCare patient receives increased emotional support. Video visits from nurses, nutritionists, social workers, and physicians can provide that support far more cost effectively than hospital admissions can. Clinical trials in Pennsylvania reveal patients look forward to the virtual visits. In anticipation of being seen on video, most patients prepare for the video visit with more elaborate grooming.
Patients style their hair and women apply cosmetics to enhance their video appearance.
The TeleHomeCare patient experiences a decrease in cost of home care, some experts say. TeleHomeCare patients have experienced decreases in cost of home care. This has been shown in numerous studies. However, cost also has been an issue that has deterred some providers from embarking on TeleHomeCare, especially since Medicare does not reimburse providers for such services. The home health care provider is more productive through TeleHomeCare.