In what situations may telehealth services be utilized by RCPs?

Telehealth services offer a valuable means for Respiratory Care Practitioners (RCPs) to provide care in various situations. Using telehealth for patient follow-ups and education is particularly beneficial as it enables RCPs to maintain continuity of care, assess patient progress, and provide essential information or training on respiratory management. This modality supports patients who might have difficulty attending in-person appointments due to mobility issues, geographic constraints, or time limitations, thus ensuring they receive necessary follow-up care and educational resources regardless of their circumstances.

Utilizing telehealth for marketing purposes is not an appropriate application of this technology, as it strays from the clinical focus and may not serve the patients' best interests. Additionally, while emergencies may require immediate intervention, telehealth is not limited solely to those situations; it is also effective for ongoing care and preventive measures. Patients requesting telehealth services does demonstrate the flexibility and accessibility of care, but it is not the only situation where RCPs can appropriately deploy telehealth services. Hence, the most fitting context for telehealth use is as a tool for follow-up and education, aligning with the overall goals of patient-centered care.