Health care challenges in rural areas
In the summer, it is common for people living in cities to seek experiences in natural environments. However, when they present with health problems, they often find that medical care in these areas is very limited. A shortage of doctors and insufficient resources turn the promise of fast and efficient health care into an unmet need.
The situation of medical personnel in rural health
The reality in Spain is that doctors prefer to practice in urban areas, although the authorities have implemented incentives to attract professionals to rural areas. This paradox results in an older population in these areas that, needing more health care, lacks adequate medical resources.
The impact of the pandemic on remote consultations
During the global health crisis, there was a considerable increase in virtual consultations in regions such as Lleida and Alt Pyrenees, where access to doctors is usually a real challenge. This change allowed a new way to connect with the health service, and now we question whether this model is what these communities really need.
Figures that speak for themselves
Since 2019, more than 522,300 users have been registered in the telemedicine tool in Lleida, with a considerable number of conversations between patients and healthcare staff approaching 900,000. Phenomena that reflect an adaptation to the new reality, which has been maintained despite the return to in-person consultations.
Common uses of telemedicine
Users use this service mainly to clarify doubts about test results or to confirm treatments, a dynamic that saves unnecessary trips.
A necessary complementary support
Although virtual consultations are useful, face-to-face visits are still essential for emergencies. In addition, direct interaction with doctors has a fundamental social component. For many older people, these visits represent one of the few opportunities to interact with other members of the community.
A hybrid solution for the future
Combining traditional visions with new technologies may turn out to be the ideal solution. The Generalitat is also exploring the use of drones to improve the health service, which may unlock new ways of accessing health care for these areas.
