Telehealth is making it possible for those with rare diseases to receive expert care more efficiently. Bryan Garcia, MD, explains that although many specialties simply had to use telehealth during the pandemic, the benefits are here to stay for many of his cystic fibrosis (CF) patients. Thanks to recent Cystic Fibrosis Foundation investments in home-monitoring spirometers and newly approved medicines that allow CF patients to maintain more routine lifestyles, telehealth is not only possible, but is often preferred. Dr. Garcia explains how CF treatment lends itself to the early adoption of telehealth, but he also emphasizes that the general trend towards it is inevitable across the industry—noting that some clinical trials are already enabling greater participation by requiring fewer in-person visits.
