What term describes the use of telecommunication methods to deliver patient care?

The term that best describes the use of telecommunication methods to deliver patient care is telehealth. Telehealth encompasses a broad range of services that include not only the delivery of health care through telecommunication technology, such as virtual consultations, but also the use of remote patient monitoring, health education, and wellness resources. It aims to improve access to care, enhance patient engagement, and facilitate communication between patients and healthcare providers.

While telemedicine is similar, it specifically refers to the use of telecommunications for the actual diagnosis and treatment of patients rather than the broader scope of health services that telehealth covers. Telecare generally refers to remote care and support systems, often used for monitoring patients with chronic conditions, but it does not encompass the wide range of services provided under telehealth. Teleconsultation is a more specific practice within the telehealth umbrella, focusing on consultations with healthcare professionals via telecommunications. Thus, telehealth is the most comprehensive choice for representing the use of telecommunications in delivering a variety of patient care services.