In his recent article on telemedicine, Dr. Michael Rothman, New Jersey’s foremost holistic physician, speaks about the power and limitations of telemedicine.
“It seems to me, that movement towards telemedicine is pushing to dilute the patient/doctor relationship to the point that there is virtually (pun intended) no relationship. Back in “the good old days”, doctors and their patients had a more intimate relationship. Doctors would care for patients and their families over years, even decades literally taking care of them from “cradle to grave”. This was before “managed care”, HMOs, PPOs, The Health Care Affordability Act (ObamaCare) and a long list of bureaucratic, “bean counting”, initiatives that promised to improve health care delivery and reduce costs, but in reality did just the opposite,” Dr. Rothman writes.
The article contains observations about how telemedicine is contributing to an increasing distance between the patient and the physician. More is available at: <b><a href="http://mdwellnessmd.com/blog/post/telemedicine-when-is-technology-too-much/">http://mdwellnessmd.com/blog/post/telemedicine-when-is-technology-too-much/</a></b>
While Dr. Dr. Rothman doesn't necessary think that telemedicine is a full encompassing solution for the patient-doctor relationship, he does appreciate it for certain situations. Phone consultations and alike situations are acceptable. “Any initial consultations should be followed up with face-to-face office visits. Any assessment of health status that would need a physical examination should be done in person. Conversely, reviewing laboratory test results is very appropriate for the telemedicine model.”
He points out that the art of physical examination is being lost. Human contact and interpersonal sharing is still the best way for a physician to understand a patient’s needs and concerns.
Over the last 20 years, Dr. Michael E. Rothman has dedicated his life to helping his patients understand the “how and why” of their health. He strives to provide the highest quality care utilizing natural, holistic, non-toxic methods. Dr. Rothman has an extensive background in Nutrition, Biochemistry, Physiology and Physics. This NJ holistic doctor is highly respected by his peers and is loved by his patients.
