While telehealth or virtual care provides significant advantages, it also poses challenges and potential problems that need to be addressed. Here are some of the concerns I see.
We all see the medications on TV or on social media that are used to treat type-2 diabetes or weight loss. Since I’ve been doing some research on these medications, my social media feeds have been full of ads for GLP-1 medicines. I’ve also been looking at sleep remedies, and once again, I’m being fed ads for every possible sleep remedy under the sun.
So, what is GLP-1? GLP-1 is an endogenous hormone, whereas medication like Ozempic is a synthetic drug designed for long-lasting efficacy. Key distinctions include origin: GLP-1 is naturally occurring, whereas Ozempic is manufactured. Functionality modulates insulin and appetite, yet Ozempic is engineered for prolonged action. While this medication can help with managing blood sugar regulation for type-2 diabetes and obesity, diet and exercise are still part of the solution.
These medications are being pushed as the ‘magic pill” to weight loss. The reality is it’s meant to be used for people with a BMI of 30+ and combined with diet modification and exercise. People want something effortless. With telehealth or online virtual providers, what’s to prevent someone from not being truthful about their weight? In my research, I went through the process of determining what it takes to get a prescription for GLP-1 medication. It’s an easy process with a generic questionnaire; you’re approved. No blood work to see if the medication is right for you. It’s pretty alarming. I didn’t check out, but it was easy to get to that point.
I also did the same research on sleep medication. Ramelteon is being offered primarily as a sleep remedy. I researched this medication, and users don’t find it to be effective and would rather use Ambien, which can be addictive. Once again, I went through the process via an online provider, and I was asked a series of generic questions and immediately approved for Ramelteon. No blood work, no deep dive into health history, no phone conversation, just here’s a pill to get you to sleep.
When you provide your personal information on these provider websites, you have no idea who they are. No one thinks about data breaches. You’re providing some sensitive health information that is at risk of being hacked or misused if security measures are insufficient. Maintaining patient confidentiality can be challenging, especially if information is shared or in an unsecured environment.
The biggest issue I see is quality of care. Certain conditions may require physical examinations, imaging, or lab tests that aren’t ordered via these online providers. How many people are honest in their answers about getting a specific medication? Virtual care sometimes lacks the personal touch that fosters trust and effective communication between patients and providers. In my opinion, no one cares about you via these online providers.
It’s a money grab, plain and simple. Providers may face restrictions when offering care across state or national borders. Insurance coverage and reimbursement for telehealth services vary and are usually more expensive than an in-person visit to your primary doctor.
Easy access to healthcare may lead to overuse of services, unnecessary treatments, or misdiagnosis due to incomplete assessments. Virtual interactions might increase the risk of misunderstandings about diagnoses or treatment plans.
Before considering virtual health remedies, be sure to do your research. I know it’s tempting to bypass your doctor for weight loss or sleep medication, but are the unknown risks worth it?
Pat Garner is a Certified Nutritional Practitioner (CNP)
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