Telehealth and digital tools expand patient access to care

Digital health platforms and telehealth services are increasingly transforming patient access to medical care. Online prescription services allow individuals to manage medical needs from home, reducing the need for travel and time away from work. This is particularly beneficial for rural communities facing physician shortages and for patients managing chronic conditions.

The Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology has identified the expansion of telehealth and digital health tools as a federal priority to improve care continuity and reduce barriers for underserved populations.

In the field of mental health, the use of telehealth has grown significantly following the COVID-19 pandemic. In California, professional licensing regulations specify that for telehealth services, the client must be located within the state. While the therapist's physical location may vary, they must be licensed in California and adhere to state laws and ethical obligations.