CHICAGO, IL / ACCESSWIRE / November 12, 2024 / In today’s world, technology is often seen as a barrier to human connection. With the rise of telehealth, artificial intelligence (AI), and our constant use of devices, many believe we are losing the personal, human interactions essential to mental health. However, this perspective overlooks the potential of technology to enhance, not replace, these connections. Dr. Aditi U. Joshia doctor with extensive experience in telemedicine, has worked with more than 25,000 patients via virtual platforms and believes technology can be a powerful tool to foster human connections and improve mental health.

The misconception of disconnection

One of the biggest fears about technology in healthcare, particularly telehealth and AI, is that it diminishes the personal aspect of care. Many people worry that without face-to-face interactions, patients will feel isolated or disconnected from their healthcare providers. This concern is valid, especially given the critical importance of human connections for mental health. But according to Dr JoshiThis fear is based on a misunderstanding of how technology can be used.

“People often think that using telehealth or relying on AI takes away the human element,” Dr Joshi explain. “But in my experience, it’s about finding new ways to connect, not reducing connection.”

Technology as a bridge, not a barrier

Dr Joshi her experience working with thousands of patients via telehealth has shown her that technology can serve as a bridge to connect people, particularly when it comes to mental health care. Many of her patients would have otherwise struggled to access in-person care, due to geographic distance, time constraints, or even stigma surrounding mental health. Telehealth provides these patients with a convenient and safe space where they can seek help without the barriers that often prevent them from getting the care they need.

“Telehealth opens up new possibilities in care,” explains Dr. Joshi. “We’re not replacing human connection; we’re making it more accessible.”

For patients who might feel overwhelmed or anxious about meeting with a healthcare professional in person, virtual appointments provide a level of comfort. They can connect from the safety of their home, where they feel more in control. The screen can act as a buffer, easing initial anxiety and allowing them to open up in ways they might not in a traditional setting.

Redefining human interaction

Telehealth is also redefining how healthcare providers interact with patients. Dr. Joshi has developed strategies to foster meaningful interactions, even when a screen is involved. Simple practices like active listening, maintaining eye contact with the camera, and being in the moment allow her to build trust and rapport with patients.

“Telehealth visits are different from caring for patients in the emergency department. Yet I have still had incredibly impactful patient relationships that were built virtually,” Dr Joshi reflects. “Just because we’re not in the same room doesn’t mean I’m not connecting with my patients. In fact, the virtual setting often allows for more focused, uninterrupted conversations – which is not the case in busy emergency rooms.”

Technology, when used thoughtfully, can create a deeper sense of connection because it encourages healthcare providers to be intentional in their communication. Dr. Joshi emphasizes that these small adjustments—making the patient feel seen, heard, and understood—can make a big difference in a virtual environment.

The role of AI and devices in mental health

In addition to telehealth, AI and other technology tools are becoming increasingly important in healthcare. Although there are concerns that AI will further depersonalize care, Dr. Joshi believes these tools can enhance the patient-provider relationship, not replace it. AI, for example, can help streamline administrative tasks, allowing healthcare providers to focus more on patient care and less on paperwork.

“AI can help us be more present with our patients by taking over mundane tasks,” says Dr Joshi. “It’s not about replacing human interaction; it’s about making sure the time we spend with our patients is as meaningful as possible.”

For patients, mental health apps, wearables, and AI-based tools can offer additional support between appointments. These technologies allow patients to track their mental health, access resources, and even engage in mindfulness practices, all from their smartphone or wearable device.

The future of mental health and technology

As technology continues to evolve, so does its role in healthcare. Dr. Joshi envisions a future in which technology and human connection are seen not as opposing forces but as complementary elements that together can improve mental health care.

“We need to understand how technology can improve our connections,” says Dr. Joshi. “The key is not in the technology itself, but in how we use it.”

Dr Joshi experience demonstrates that telehealth, AI and other technological innovations offer new avenues of human connection. Rather than replacing the personal aspects of care, these tools can improve our ability to connect, providing more opportunities for people to access the mental health support they need. In this new era of healthcare, technology is not a barrier, it is a bridge.

Media contact:
Aditi U Joshi MD, MSc, FACEP
https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-aditi-joshi/
https://www.draditiujoshi.com/

SOURCE: Dr. Aditi U. Joshi

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