A recent study suggests that cancer patients' preference for telehealth visits not only provides convenience but also significantly reduces greenhouse gas emissions associated with in-person medical care. Click here for article.
Telehealth and decentralized cancer care, facilitated by online consultations and local testing facilities, could potentially reduce nationwide carbon-dioxide emissions from cancer care by 33%.
The COVID-19 pandemic led to an 81% reduction in emissions associated with oncology visits due to increased telehealth usage and reduced in-person visits, highlighting the environmental benefits of virtual care.
Health care providers are increasingly recognizing the importance of addressing climate change by adopting eco-friendly practices, such as telemedicine and optimizing treatment protocols to minimize emissions.
While telehealth offers numerous benefits, including reduced travel time and costs for patients, its adoption should consider potential disparities in access and the need for personalized patient care preferences.
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