All About the Rise and Advantages of Tele-Neurology

From acute stroke care to dementia and migraine management, the field of neurology has been at the forefront of using telehealth to treat patients nationwide. A telehealth survey by the American Medical Association found that 98% of neurologists exercise telehealth services in some capacity throughout their practice. Of those surveyed, 66% agreed or strongly agreed that telehealth increased their professional satisfaction. Even so, there are many opportunities to expand tele-neurology services beyond what’s commonly practiced today. By allowing specialized neurological treatment to be delivered remotely, tele-neurology is a viable option for facilities and patients facing various conditions.

Using Technology to Overcome Geographical Barriers

Tele-neurology has played a crucial role in overcoming geographical barriers, especially for those located in rural and underserved communities with little to no access to neurological care and treatment. This article from the Association of Healthcare Journalists discusses the ability to provide neurological exams remotely, with patients performing simple tasks like standing up from a chair or walking across the room from their homes or a nearby clinic. Tele-neurology allows diagnostic professionals to assess patients quickly, cutting wait times and expanding the reach of care.

The COVID-19 pandemic was a significant factor contributing to the rise of tele-neurology. Telemedicine gave the ability to treat patients through social distancing and has been adapted today to safely provide care to restricted, elderly and high-risk patients. An article by the AMA reported that of the 23 key elements needed to conduct a single-element neurological examination, only two cannot be done through telemedicine. Even after the peak of the pandemic, telehealth use in various medical specialties across the U.S. was about 38 times higher than before the pandemic. In neurology, it accounted for 13% of outpatient visits nationwide.

Expanding Neurological Care and Treatment

Using technology to advance neurological care and treatment continues to expand. Advancements in artificial intelligence and neuroimaging technology have revolutionized patient treatment and diagnosis. High-resolution imaging techniques provide faster diagnoses and targeted treatment. Although tele-neurology has limitations concerning imaging and scans, the technology continues to advance rapidly, and its availability provides timely care and treatment.

At LocumTenens.com, tele-neurology solutions and flexible models are tailor-made for specific needs. LT Telehealth offers remote and hybrid coverage models to match facility volumes and necessary coverage requirements. Strategic advancements are within reach, with over 16,000 licensed clinicians and active programs in 43 states. Tele-neurology offers advancements and benefits to providers, facilities and the overall specialty. At LocumTenens.com, we realize these benefits and aim to provide them to facilities across the country. To learn more about the benefits of a partnership with us, contact one of our skilled account representatives today.

About the author

Jeremy Alexander

Vice President, Neurology and Physiatry

Jeremy Alexander is vice president of LocumTenens.com’s Neurology and Physiatry divisions. He joined the company as an account representative in 2005 before transitioning into a sales account executive role and senior account executive role in 2012. He was promoted to managing director in 2015 and again in 2020 to oversee the neurology team. Jeremy graduated from Georgia Southern University with a degree in broadcasting and a double minor in journalism and political science. He has won numerous awards while at LocumTenens.com, including Manager of the Month, Producer of the Month, Sales Associate of the Year and the MAX Award for Psychiatry, and he is a member of the 20-Million-Dollar Gross Profit Club. He lives in Alpharetta with his wife, their three children, two dogs and one cat.