Telehealth in US Healthcare: Definition, Importance, and Why It Must Be Prioritized (2026)
Introduction Telehealth has become a defining component of modern healthcare delivery in the United States. What was once considered a supplemental service is now playing a central role in improving access, efficiency, and continuity of care. According to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), Telehealth allows providers to deliver healthcare services remotely using telecommunications technology. Official CMS Telehealth information: https://www.cms.gov/medicare/coverage/telehealth Telehealth is no longer optional. It is becoming a necessary part of how healthcare is delivered and managed. What is Telehealth? Telehealth refers to the use of electronic communication technologies to provide healthcare services when the patient and provider are in different locations. It includes: Real-time video consultations between patients and providers Remote patient monitoring using digital devices Secure messaging and...