Telemedicine has grown increasingly prevalent since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. Technological advancements, particularly communication technology, have made virtual care possible. Medical professionals can now conduct diagnoses and offer treatments to patients through a screen. The medical industry is torn in half, with one half claiming in-person care while the other half exalts the benefits of telemedicine. Administrative burdens and employee burnout have led many medical professionals to seek alternatives to help them and their patients. Could telemedicine be the solution to medical staff burnout and shortages? Let us find out:
Staff Burnout
Most medical professionals work six-hour shifts, taking up two or three changes. The medical industry has the most overworked employees because the average person’s workday is only eight hours. Working twelve or eighteen hours a day, six or seven days a week, could lead to burnout. Many medical professionals say they have lost passion for their work and would like to work elsewhere. With telemedicine, medical staff can have more freedom as they do not have to go to the hospital to meet patients. The team can adapt patient sessions to suit their lifestyle, allowing them a better work-life balance that reduces burnout.
Staff Shortages
Medical facilities have been in dire straits since the pandemic. The shortages are causing employees to work more, leading to burnout which causes employees to quit creating an even more significant need in an increasingly growing negative cycle. With more staff wanting to leave their jobs, staff shortage will be worse in the future. Telemedicine could help many medical professionals work at their convenience, allowing them to treat patients properly. It also attracts people to the industry, which can help address staff shortages.
Medical professionals often suffer from burnout which leads to and is caused by staff shortages. Telemedicine is a solution worth considering to address medical staff burnout and shortages.