Opinion: Telemedicine doesn’t need to fade away after the pandemic

This past year, telemedicine has been a critical alternative to in-person visits. They’ve helped doctors like me stay connected to patients, a lifeline for some. Many patients, particularly those with mental health struggles, have told me how much easier it is to see me from home, avoiding the hassle of traveling to “see me” in person. Other doctors — psychiatrists, sleep specialists, neurologists, and dermatologists –—have told me similar stories and use telemedicine to manage many conditions remotely, providing needed access for many and sorting out who should be seen in person.